Friesen Bridge strengthens the Wunderline corridor connecting the Netherlands and Germany

Today marks an important moment for rail travel between the Netherlands and Germany: A special train on the route Groningen–Bunde–Leer–Weener celebrates the start of service on parts of the 173 kilometre “Wunderline” corridor and highlights the role of the sbp Friesen Bridge over the River Ems in reconnecting the route.

sbp provided the structural engineering for the Friesen Bridge near Weener, which forms part of the rail link between Leer in East Frisia and Groningen in the Netherlands. After a cargo ship collided with the old bridge and partially destroyed the overpass, a complete replacement was required. The new structure has been designed as a lift and turn bridge that connects to the existing foreshore bridges, with two fixed superstructures on the Weener and Ihrhove sides and a movable swing section with a pivot pier on the Ihrhove side to keep the navigation channel clear. Deep foundation piers on land and shallow foundation piers in the river support the new superstructures, and the bridge also includes a footpath and cycle path as well as a separate service and rescue route.

High accuracy requirements and poor subsoil conditions near the coast, and their influence on the rotation of the bridge, presented particular technical challenges and were carefully analysed as part of the planning process.

Client: DB Netz AG
Execution: ARGE Adam Hörnig & MCE
Concept design: Marx Krontal Partner
Structural engineers movable bridge, foundations: schlaich bergermann partner
Structural engineer side spans: MCC
Collaboration: KV Ingenieure GmbH

With the Friesen Bridge complete and the Wunderline gradually entering service, the rail connection between the Netherlands and Germany is being rebuilt and local access across the River Ems is significantly improved. We wish everyone on today’s special train a smooth and enjoyable journey.