ProRail's Revolutionary ETCS Pilot Transforms Dutch Rail
Discover ProRail's ETCS pilot project: BAM and Strukton install modern signalling on Leeuwarden-Stavoren and Leeuwarden-Harlingen Haven lines from 2026.
TrainsNews 
ProRail, the Dutch railway infrastructure manager, is ushering in a new era for Dutch rail with its innovative ETCS pilot project. On September 2, the company awarded a key contract to BAM and Strukton to install ETCS lineside equipment on non-electrified secondary lines in the provinces of Groningen and Friesland. This crucial pilot project paves the way for ETCS deployment across the entire secondary rail network in northern Netherlands.
Updated on September 6, 2025
Unpacking the Contract: Who is Behind the Dutch ETCS Rollout?
ProRail Awards Key Contract to Industry Leaders
ProRail formalized the contract award on September 2, 2025, marking a decisive step in Dutch railway modernization. BAM and Strukton, two major players in the railway industry, have been designated as primary contractors to install ETCS lineside equipment.
The project specifically targets non-electrified lines in the provinces of Groningen and Friesland, in northern Netherlands. This strategic geographical selection allows testing ETCS technology on infrastructure representative of the Dutch secondary network.
Collaborative Expertise: The Teams Driving Innovation
The contractual structure reflects a sophisticated collaborative approach. Strukton benefits from technical support from Arcadis, an engineering company recognized for its transport infrastructure expertise. BAM relies on Nexus Rail, a railway systems specialist.
This strategic work division aims to enable both contractors to acquire comprehensive ETCS installation experience. This skills development constitutes a crucial challenge for the broader ETCS deployment planned across the entire Dutch network.
The split contract approach ensures knowledge transfer and builds domestic expertise in ETCS technology, essential for long-term maintenance and future expansions.
The Project's Scope: Lines, Technology, and Implementation Details
Initial Pilot Lines: Focus on Key Secondary Routes
The pilot project focuses on two essential secondary lines in northern Netherlands. The Leeuwarden - Stavoren line extends over 50 kilometers and will be equipped by BAM and Nexus Rail. This connection constitutes an important axis for western Friesland services.
The Leeuwarden - Harlingen Haven line, spanning 25 kilometers, has been assigned to Strukton and Arcadis. This line holds particular importance as it will host the latest ETCS version, making it a privileged testing ground for cutting-edge technologies.
What the Installation Entails: A Look at the Technical Work
Work will begin in 2026 according to ProRail's established schedule [to be verified]. The installation comprises several essential technical components: specialized cable laying, ETCS balise installation, and axle-counter deployment for train detection systems.
System commissioning represents a critical phase of the project, bringing the new signalling system online. Beyond installation proper, work includes track modifications and rolling stock fitment with onboard ETCS systems.
Comprehensive staff training represents an indispensable human component. Train drivers and maintenance teams must master new ETCS-related procedures before commercial service launch.
Pioneering the Latest ETCS Version
The Leeuwarden - Harlingen Haven line will serve as a laboratory for the latest available ETCS version on the market. This pilot installation forms part of the national ERTMS (European Rail Traffic Management System) program test strategy.
Data collected on this line will evaluate new technology performance and reliability before larger-scale deployment across the network.
Pilot Lines Overview:
| Line | Distance | Contractors | Special Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leeuwarden - Stavoren | 50 km | BAM + Nexus Rail | Reference line |
| Leeuwarden - Harlingen Haven | 25 km | Strukton + Arcadis | Latest ETCS version |
The Future of Dutch Rail Signalling: Transition and Expansion
Phasing Out ATB-NG Class B
ETCS commissioning will trigger decommissioning of the currently operational ATB-NG Class B signalling system. This transition marks adoption of a modern, standardized European system, improving railway interoperability.
ATB-NG Class B, a distinctly Dutch system, will give way to ETCS already equipping numerous European networks. This harmonization will facilitate international train circulation and simplify equipment maintenance.
Broader ETCS Rollout in Northern Netherlands
The pilot project's success will condition ETCS installation on remaining regional lines. Deployment will extend from Leeuwarden and Groningen railway hubs to the entire northern Netherlands secondary network.
This star-pattern deployment strategy optimizes installation costs and minimizes operational disruptions. Lessons learned from pilot lines will feed subsequent projects throughout the region.
Context & Challenges
Railway signalling modernization emerges as a European priority. ETCS (European Train Control System) constitutes the reference technological standard for improving railway transport safety and efficiency.
The Netherlands shows relative delay in ETCS deployment compared to other European countries. This pilot project marks strategic catch-up to maintain Dutch railway network competitiveness.
What This Means for Passengers and Scotland's Future
Passengers will benefit from improved service regularity and punctuality. ETCS enables finer railway traffic management and reduces signalling-related incident risks.
Railway operators must adapt operational procedures and train staff on new systems. This transition will require investments in training and rolling stock equipment.
The Dutch railway industry will strengthen its technological expertise through this project. Companies involved will develop exportable know-how for European signalling markets.
Strategic Railway Modernization for the Netherlands
ProRail's ETCS pilot project in northern Netherlands represents a major technological turning point for Dutch railway infrastructure. By entrusting BAM and Strukton with ETCS installation on the Leeuwarden - Stavoren and Leeuwarden - Harlingen Haven lines, ProRail initiates ambitious secondary network modernization. This project, beginning in 2026, prepares transition to a standardized European signalling system while developing national industrial expertise. The success of this initiative will condition ETCS deployment across the entire northern Netherlands railway network, marking a decisive step toward Dutch railway transport modernization.
