Update Rhine Bridge Flehe

An important milestone has been achieved at the project Rhine Bridge Flehe: on 11 February 2026, the alignment option V1.3 has been announced as preferred variant for the replacement of the bridge. Since April 2023, SSF, as part of a joint venture, has been contracted to produce the preliminary design. In this context, several alignment options over the Rhine as well as a tunnel were analysed and evaluated with regards to technological and environmental criteria as well as approval possibilities.

The preferred variant proposes to initially built the first partial structure of the new bridge on temporary substructures next to the old bridge. After demolition of the existing structure, the final substructures as well as the second superstructure are erected. Subsequently, the first structure is laterally launched into its final position so that the new bridge is approximately at the location of the old one.

A particular challenge, in addition to the flora and fauna habitat and the nature and landscape conservation areas on the Neuss side, was presented by the water protection zones on both sides of the Rhine. In direct vicinity of the bridge are drinking water wells for the cities of Neuss and Düsseldorf within a strictly protected water protection zone I, where construction is prohibited. Another variant, that was examined at the wish of many citizens, spanning over the water protection zone, turned out to be un-approvable after coordination with the working group responsible for implementing the guidelines for construction at roads and in water protection zones.

Autobahn GmbH, the federal motorway construction company, created an interactive project atlas where different alignment variants are visualised and protected areas can be visible or hidden. The platform mostly served the dialogue with citizens: everyone interested could access the maps and directly place their suggestions and questions regarding the project.

Link to the project atlas.