Since the contract was awarded to Ballast Nedam Infra in April 2025, Ballast Nedam Infra and Rijkswaterstaat have jointly completed an extensive project validation phase. During this period, additional investigations were carried out and the design was further developed. This process resulted in a more detailed design while also providing the contractor with a clearer understanding of the project's scope and challenges. The project validation phase gives the contractor additional time and information after contract award to assess uncertainties and project risks. This enables a better alignment of pricing and risk allocation. In addition, an execution plan has been developed that fits within the available closure windows required for the renovation of this vital tunnel connection.

Renovation projects are inherently less predictable than new-build projects and routine maintenance activities. For this reason, and following consultations with market parties, Rijkswaterstaat decided to include a project validation phase in the contract with the contractor. During this phase, the selected contractor and Rijkswaterstaat work closely together to further investigate the renovation challenges and jointly assess the proposed approach. Once this phase has been completed, the final pricing is determined for those project elements that involve the highest risks.

The success of the project validation phase is first and foremost the result of the dedication and expertise of the teams involved. Through an open and constructive collaboration, specialists from Ballast Nedam Infra, Rijkswaterstaat and Croonwolter&dros combined their knowledge and experience to address the challenges of the renovation project. Together, we have laid a solid foundation for the next phase of the project. It is an achievement we look back on with pride and one that gives us confidence as we move forward with the renovation of the Noordtunnel.