Landfill in Province of Drenthe transformed into cycling paradise
VAM mountain in the Province of Drenthe in the Netherlands, a 56-metre-high landfill owned by waste processor Aterro, has been transformed into a true cycling paradise. Witteveen+Bos under assignment to the Province of Drenthe was closely involved in the work planning and construction.
Under assignment to the Province of Drenthe, Witteveen+Bos contributed to the design, specifications, soil analyses and the invitation to tender for the new cycling attraction that ultimately became known as Dak van Drenthe [Roof of Drenthe]. The result is a 2.7 kilometre cycling circuit with fast curves, a gradient cobblestone lane and steep gradients. An MTB route was also constructed for mountain bikers. After completing the work planning activities, Witteveen+Bos was also responsible for the management and oversight of the construction carried out by the firm Hoornstra Infra located in the village of Nieuw-Buinen.
Jorian Wals, project manager on behalf of Witteveen+Bos: “Drenthe wanted to attract more recreational cyclists to the province, which is why it invested in a sportive challenge that attracts cyclists throughout the country. Combined with existing roads in the surroundings, it is possible to traverse some very interesting tours.”
Arnold Mesken, project manager on behalf of the Province of Drenthe: “At first glance, constructing a cycling route on a landfill would seem easy, but there are lots of obstacles. Damage to landfill liners had to be avoided at all costs. The ground structures had to remain stable and secure and construction costs had to be constrained. Critical Witteveen+Bos specialists assisted us in achieving these goals.” On 18 October, the Col du VAM, which is how the cycling route is now known, was opened in a festive atmosphere.
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