Central government and region to decide on Zuidasdok progress

Significant progress has been made on the regeneration of Amsterdam Zuid station and the reconstruction of the De Nieuwe Meer junction. The contract for the Amstel junction has been awarded and the design is being drawn up for the construction of the tunnel.

Shortfall grows

The Zuidasdok shortfall has increased to a figure between € 1.1 and € 1.3 billion, mainly as a result of high inflation, market trends and the complexity of building in a busy urban area. One of the key ongoing factors behind the cost increases is the fact that Zuidasdok is being built in a metropolitan area. It is essential that the area can remain safely accessible throughout the construction process.

Decision expected in late 2026

In November 2025, central government and the region reconfirmed the scope of Zuidasdok as set out in the Zuidasdok Routing Decision (Tracébesluit Zuidasdok). Work is continuing on a definitive design for the realisation of the southern and northern tunnel, and the southern tunnel can definitely be achieved with the budget currently available. It has been agreed that the decision on the phasing and funding of the northern tunnel and the north side of the Amstel junction will be taken by the end of 2026 at the latest. By then, there will be greater certainty with regard to the actual cost of the tunnel and the design of the south side of the Amstel junction. Additional budget will be essential if the full scope of Zuidasdok is to be realised.

Cost savings

In order to reduce the financial shortfall, a target of €70 million was agreed for 2024. These savings have already been achieved by opting for less expensive material of a comparable quality for the platform flooring at Amsterdam Zuid station and for the noise barriers needed on the central reservation along much of the motorway. Contractors are also being encouraged to work as efficiently as possible.

Looking to the future

The government authorities remain committed to the full realisation of Zuidasdok. In the period ahead, the focus will be on work at Amsterdam Zuid station and at the De Nieuwe Meer junction, designing the tunnel and the Amstel junction, cost management and careful decision-making.