Progress Lelylijn research

In the past six months (January-June 2023) a lot has happened in the research on Lelylijn. Below we have listed the most important developments. And we look ahead to the next (half) year.

Progress NOVEX investigation Lelylijn: charcoal sketch
The NOVEX investigation of the Lelylijn focuses on spatial-economic opportunities and broader welfare aspects. The core of the NOVEX approach is the development perspective: a sketch of the future environment of the Lelylijn, with an overview of what can possibly be realized. The first sketch has been made. It is like a charcoal sketch that does not yet contain any final choices. This document gives a picture of the various aspects of the Lelylijn and shows that it is more than just a rail connection. It serves as inspiration and input for the in-depth follow-up phase that will take place in the coming year.
View the charcoal sketch here.

Follow-up phase summer 2023 – summer 2024After the summer, the follow-up phase of the NOVEX study will begin. The goal is to present a Development Perspective for the Lelylijn in the summer of 2024. In this phase, complex issues around housing, economy, accessibility, and nature and landscape will be further elaborated and substantiated. The involvement of provinces, municipalities, water boards and other stakeholders in this is very important.

Progress MIRT study: Lelylijn alternatives
Several alternatives were explored in the MIRT study of the Lelylijn. In the coming year, at least two of these alternatives will be further elaborated, including cost estimates and feasibility assessments. This will also involve cooperation with provinces, municipalities and water boards.

Progress Environment
Over the past six months, the project organization Lelylijn has held discussions with various parties to further improve the study:

• Online consultation Lelylijn: over 11,000 residents participated in an online citizen consultation on plans for the Lelylijn.
• VNG conference in Groningen: During a workshop, nearly 50 participants contributed ideas on how to approach Lelylijn and participation.
• Conversation on Brede Welvaart: Representatives from Northern Netherlands provided input on the approach to the NOVEX study.
• Meetings by province: Discussions were held with nearly 100 people from relevant governments, collecting points of interest.
• Educational institutions: Students from TU Delft, for example, have created designs for the Lelylijn.

Over the next six months, extra attention will be paid to involving the surrounding area. Substantive work sessions will be organized to gather local expertise, administrative meetings will take place. And we will organize a new participation process as an extension of the online consultation this year.

View the report on the resultsof the online consultation here.