High-speed rail south of Schiphol to close three months, repairs could cost €580 million
The high-speed rail line south of Schiphol will be closed for up to three months in 2028 for urgent renovations, ProRail confirmed to De Telegraaf. The closure could halt international train traffic for a maximum of 82 days.
The closure primarily targets four of ten problematic viaducts along the route between Leiderdorp and Schiphol, including the most critical, the Zuidweg viaduct, which has foundation cracks. ProRail called the work “very complex” and said it will involve “large-scale reconstruction.”
“We do not yet know if the full 82 days will be required, as we are still assessing how long rebuilding the viaducts will take,” ProRail said.
Estimated costs for the repairs have risen to 580 million euros, though ProRail noted “a high degree of uncertainty” and said final costs depend on the full scope of work. The Dutch government wants involved construction companies to pay, but insiders doubt they will, potentially leaving taxpayers to cover the expense.
NS and Eurostar, the primary users of the line, expressed frustration. “Simply put, this is extremely inconvenient for travelers,” an NS spokesperson said. The company is exploring alternatives but said, “It is sad that this intervention is necessary, but it is necessary.”
Eurostar calculated that detours could add at least 30 minutes to trips, with the most likely alternative route via Haarlem, though Breukelen is also an option. “We understand the uncertainty frustrates our passengers, and we will inform them as soon as we have more information,” Eurostar said.
ProRail also noted that repair work may affect other infrastructure. Some viaducts cross highways, including the A44, which could require temporary closure. Coordination with other ongoing track work at Haarlem and Schiphol remains uncertain, and ProRail has not confirmed whether there is enough capacity for rerouted international trains.
