The Netherlands’ State Secretary Thierry Aartsen of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management has officially launched the Lower Saxony Line project (Nedersaksenlijn) in Emmen, alongside local officials and residents. This partly new railway line will connect Groningen, Emmen, and Twente.
Starting October 6, exploration began into several key aspects including the exact route of the line, the locations of the stations, and how fast and frequently the trains will run. Attention will also be given to the spatial development opportunities the line brings such for instance, where new housing could best be built, and how the region can fully capitalise on the opportunities this railway will create.
“The Nedersaksenlijn is more than just a railway line. It represents a new perspective. Residents will soon find it easier to get to school or hospital and commuting to work will become much simpler. The area will also become more attractive for businesses to set up,” the State Secretary Thierry Aartsen said.
Over EUR 2 billion has been allocated for the Lower Saxony Line project and a final decision on the preferred route is expected to be made in 2028. The project is a historic moment as is the first new railway line to be built in the Netherlands in 13 years.
“We’re exploring the timetable, the precise alignment of the track, and the impact of these decisions. We’re also looking into which stations will be built and where, which existing stations will be modified, and how best to design level crossings with roads,” John Voppen, CEO of ProRail, said.
The Nedersaksenlijn is a planned train connection in the Netherlands between Groningen and Enschede. The project involves reconstruction and upgrades to the existing sections and the construction of a 45 km missing link between Emmen and Veendam, via Stadskanaal and Ter Apel. The total length of the line would be about 180 km when completed providing direct connection between Groningen and Enschede.
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