Careful consideration
Mike Lucacevich, environmental manager at TenneT, understands the concerns of the residents of Spierdijk, but emphasizes that no decision has yet been made. “No choice has been made at this point. Everything is still open,” he says.
According to Lucacevich, the five possible routes are carefully considered, in consultation with local residents, municipalities, province, the water board and nature and interest groups. “We test them for the environment, cultural history, surroundings, health and quality of life, among other things, before we go to the minister with advice.” The impact on Natura 2000 areas, Special Provincial Landscape and meadow bird areas also plays an important role.
It is a complex puzzle, says the area manager. “The decision will hurt somewhere in the region and will have an impact on the landscape, so this requires careful consideration.” TenneT will ultimately nominate one route to the Ministry of Climate and Green Growth, which will make a decision in 2026. Actual work is not expected to start until 2030.