More capacity and reliability for a future-proof The Hague Central station
The number of train passengers in the Netherlands is steadily increasing, and ProRail expects a 45% rise by 2030 compared to 2018. This growth presents major challenges for the railway network in terms of capacity and infrastructure. One of the busiest hubs is The Hague Central. Together with construction company BAM Infra Nederland and voestalpine Turnout Technology Netherlands, we have taken the first step towards increasing capacity and reliability.
Metro tracks converted to train tracks
The Hague Central is the fifth-largest station in the Netherlands, with no less than 99.7 million public transport users annually. ProRail aims to ensure the station remains sustainably accessible in the future. From 15 February to 2 March, under BAM's leadership, intensive work was carried out during a 16-day track possession as part of the first phase of the renewal and redesign of The Hague Central. Parts 9 and 10 was removed to create more walking space for passengers, and tracks 11 and 12, previously used for metro services and out of use for nearly ten years, were reinstated and upgraded for train traffic. Fewer switches were reinstalled after old ones were removed. These four tracks can now be used for services towards Leiden. The changes result in more capacity and reliability, as well as greater comfort and safety for travellers. Throughout the work, we ensured minimal disruption to passengers despite the construction environment.
Deployment of our own wagon fleet
The tracks at The Hague Central are difficult to access by road. Thanks to the use of wagons from our own fleet, we were able to deliver products and materials safely and on time. Our Key Account Manager Jason Weerdenburg explains: “We used Klmos wagons to remove old ballast, SALT-3 wagons to supply new ballast, and both Regs and Kls wagons for transporting materials such as rails, sleepers and fastening systems.”
Our sister company, voestalpine Turnout Technology Netherlands B.V., supplied the new turnouts for the renewal of The Hague Central. “To transport the turnout components by rail, we used our Regs wagons. Since this involved ‘wide transport’, it cannot simply travel on just any route. A special transport permit (BV) was therefore issued. This is how we manage logistics from A to Z,” says Jason Weerdenburg. A collaboration in which our logistical expertise played a key role.
Continued collaboration
In a project of this scale, we were involved with BAM from the very beginning of the planning phase. Taking all requirements and possibilities into account, a detailed plan was developed in close cooperation with BAM and voestalpine. Despite the major logistical challenge, this phase was completed successfully and on schedule thanks to great collaboration with BAM and colleagues, clear communication, and a well-thought-out plan.
But the work doesn’t stop there: throughout this year and early 2026, we will continue our collaboration with BAM for the upcoming phases of the renewal and redesign of The Hague Central. We will once again supply materials and services. This time, tracks 5 through 8—towards Gouda and Utrecht—will be renewed. With the redesign of The Hague Central, more trains will be able to run in the future, travel speeds can be increased, and the reliability of the timetable will improve. This contributes to a smoother and more comfortable journey between The Hague and Leiden, Gouda, and Rotterdam.
Curious how we can support you with products, materials, or complex logistical challenges? Feel free to contact our Projects department or your Key Account Manager.
