The provinces of North Brabant and South Holland say they understand why trucks may no longer use the Merwedebrug on the A27. They warn that the ban creates serious problems. Authorities introduced the measure on Saturday after engineers found weak points in the arch structure.
South Holland Provincial Executive member Jeroen van Dijken (VVD) says the ban puts pressure on logistics and accessibility. He stresses that safety comes first. He also urges authorities and businesses to work together to reduce disruption.
North Brabant Provincial Executive member Stijn Smeulders (PvdA) says he supports the ban for safety reasons. He argues that the situation highlights wider concerns about national infrastructure. In recent years, the central government paused or cancelled six major highway projects in Brabant because it lacked funds, personnel, or nitrogen emission rights. Smeulders says the truck ban adds to these issues and warns that Brabant will struggle with accessibility unless the government invests more.
Officials have not said how long the ban will remain in place. Emergency services and public transport buses may still use the Merwedebrug. Trucks must take long detours, for example via the A2 near Zaltbommel. Footage from Rijkswaterstaat shows some trucks continuing to cross the bridge on Monday despite the ban.
Another route, the Papendrechtsebrug on the N3 near Dordrecht, closed on Friday for a nine‑month renovation. Authorities announced the closure long ago. The bridge lies about 20 kilometres from the Merwedebrug. South Holland, Rijkswaterstaat, and the involved municipalities have arranged alternative transport options. Two ferries now operate for pedestrians and cyclists, extra shared bicycles are available, and more buses and trains are running.
@ANP | News Brainport
