Today saw the Council of State issue its ruling on the two outstanding appeals against the Zuidasdok Routing Decision. Following an interim ruling in early 2017, it has been a question of waiting for the definitive outcome, which was finally announced today.
The two appeals that were the subject of the ruling related to noise nuisance and traffic and safety in the local area. The ruling comes in the wake of careful study of the files by the Council of State. In an interim ruling last year, the Council of State asked the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management to carry out a better assessment of the noise nuisance and safety in the final situation envisaged. This has resulted in new investigations and additional noise and safety measures. At the Council of State’s request, the new investigations have been independently assessed by the Foundation of Independent Court Experts in Environmental and Planning Law (Stichting Advisering Bestuursrechtspraak). Today, the Council of State ruled that the appeals were unfounded.
A look back
In 2016, 16 objectors gave formal notice that they were not (completely) in agreement with the plans for the Zuidasdok project. Their reasons varied from doubts about the need for it to concerns about serious disruption. Most of the appeals were declared unfounded by an interim Council of State ruling in 2017, leaving three outstanding appeals, one of which was later withdrawn.
Good news
With the formal objection procedure completed, construction can now start. Minister Van Nieuwenhuizen (Infrastructure and Water Management): ‘Since the Zuidasdok Routing Decision has now become irrevocable, the definitive go-ahead can be given for the widening and partial tunnelling of the A10 Zuid and the regeneration of Amsterdam Zuid station. This is good news for the accessibility of the Amsterdam Metropolitan Area and for motorists and public transport passengers who will soon benefit from this.’
Remain in dialogue
Zuidasdok Project Director Hans Versteegen is relieved to finally have clarity: ‘A major project like Zuidasdok is challenging enough. It therefore makes sense to resolve any uncertainties that could influence progress in construction as quickly as possible. If these cannot be resolved in mutual consultation, it’s occasionally someone else who has the final word. This ruling is positive for the project, but I also understand that this is a disappointment for those who have submitted objections. Now that we have clarity about the legal position, we can proceed to the next phase, during which we will of course remain in dialogue.’
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