The Dutch government has decided to halt 13 new road projects and three waterway projects due to issues related to nitrogen-based pollution, increasing costs, and staff shortages.

The suspended projects included improvements near Rottepolderplein on the A9, near Den Bosch on the A2, and various traffic congestion spots on the A1. Although the decision to cancel the projects was made in March, the specific locations were not disclosed at the time.

By canceling these projects, the government will save €4 billion, which will now be redirected towards other infrastructure improvements, stated Mark Harbers, the Minister of Roads.

The affected provinces expressed their disappointment, with Overijssel and Gelderland in particular urging the government to proceed with projects that had been planned for years.

"While it is disappointing that we cannot continue with these much-needed projects," said Harbers, "it is not feasible in the short term. However, the decision has a positive aspect, as we can now allocate the funds to essential maintenance projects elsewhere." Photo by Mawijk, Wikimedia commons.