NETHERLANDS: A replacement bridge over the IJssel at Zwolle has been built as part of the €1bn Hanzelijn project for a new Zwolle - Lelystad line to improve links from Amsterdam to the northeast from late 2012.
Designed by Quist Wintermans Architekten and built by Wellink Züblin, the €585m bridge has a total length of 925 m with a 150 m main span. It offers clearance for shipping of around 9 m, higher than the 140 year old structure it replaces; it also includes a cycle track.
The bridge was named the 'Hanzeboog' following a local newspaper competition, and began carrying trains on one track on April 26. The second track is expected to come into service from June 14.
