Adviesorganisatie Over‑Bruggen: A framework driving safer, more resilient bridges across the Netherlands
In 2025 Arup was appointed by Rijkswaterstaat together with partners Iv and Wagemaker to contribute to the AOB.
Work on the Merwede Bridge has marked the launch of the Adviesorganisatie OverBruggen (AOB) advisory framework.
Under this framework, approximately twenty bridges in ZuidWest Nederland will undergo essential maintenance. The programme applies a networkwide, riskbased approach, enabling targeted interventions that help manage structural condition, extend asset life and maintain continuity for road users. This structured method supports longterm asset planning while addressing urgent operational needs.
In 2025 Arup was appointed by Rijkswaterstaat together with partners Iv and Wagemaker to contribute to the AOB. The strategic ten-year programme is set up to safeguard the safety and availability of critical bridge infrastructure in the southwest of the Netherlands. The framework supports RWS as they respond to increasing maintenance demands associated with ageing assets, ensuring that bridges remain operational until renewal and replacement programmes move forward.
Merwedebrug: first project now underway
The Merwedebrug is the first bridge where maintenance works are currently underway within the OverBruggen framework. As one of the region’s key river crossings, the bridge plays a vital role in daily mobility. The ongoing activities focus on keeping the structure safe and available in the period leading up to its planned renewal. These works mark the beginning of a broader programme of interventions across the bridge portfolio in the coming years.
Consortium-led expertise
The Arup, Iv and Wagemaker consortium is delivering multidisciplinary engineering and advisory services across the framework. Drawing on expertise in structural engineering, inspection, asset management and maintenance strategy, the consortium supports informed decision‑making for both immediate interventions and longer‑term infrastructure planning. Working closely with our client Rijkswaterstaat and contractor Savera Over‑Bruggen (consortium), the team supports informed decisions that keep the Merwedebrug safe and available during the construction and commissioning of the adjacent new bridge.
This framework enables a proactive and coordinated approach to managing ageing bridge assets. With works now underway on the Merwedebrug, we are helping our client maintain safety and availability today while preparing for the renewal programmes of tomorrow.
The framework Adviesorganisatie OverBruggen demonstrates how strategic advisory frameworks can strengthen infrastructure resilience during periods of transition and rising demand.
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