Infra Relatiedagen 2026 tackles renovation and renewal challenge

The Netherlands' bridges, locks and tunnels are in need of major maintenance or renewal. This task has gripped the infrastructure sector for some time. Clients and contractors are constantly looking for solutions that accelerate the process of renovation and renewal and better predict the future. These solutions will be given a stage on February 10, 11 and 12 during Infra Relatiedagen 2026 in Evenementenhal Hardenberg. 

Rijkswaterstaat figures show that the Netherlands has 5,458 kilometers of national roads with 1,143 bridges and 27 tunnels, and 6,300 kilometers of waterways with 92 lock complexes. Many of these objects, built in the 1950s and 1960s, are nearing the end of their lifespans and are scheduled for major maintenance or replacement in the coming years.

During Infra Relatiedagen 2026, this renovation task, along with other current themes, will be in the spotlight. Whereas last year the focus was on emission-free work, this year the program once again offers practical tools and insights for the challenges of today and tomorrow.

Deepening the Infra Theater

This edition, the organization is tackling the content program in an even bigger way with an Infra Theater. The sector needs to work more sustainably and tackle projects more efficiently. This requires solutions that can only be achieved through collaboration and knowledge sharing. Therefore, Infra Relatiedagen 2026 will offer a three-day stage for knowledge partners to share insights and initiate discussions on the following themes: 

• Sustainable land construction: circularity and environmental management are key here, with attention to reuse of materials and the role of stakeholders;
• Bridge & viaduct renovation task: how to renovate faster and perform maintenance smarter using smart infra solutions;
• Climate adaptation: adaptive design and innovative products against heat, drought and flooding to ensure that infrastructure remains resilient to changing conditions.
• According to Bob van Heukelom of Infra Relatiedagen, it is essential that these themes are emphatically addressed. "These issues do not only play in one company, but are widely supported within the entire industry. We also see this reflected in the conversations we have as an organization with both exhibitors and visitors. This is precisely why we think it is important that Infra Relatiedagen is the platform where all stakeholders come together to conduct this dialogue."

Collaboration enables

Nor can the renovation and renewal task be solved by one party. Success stands or falls with cooperation between government, contractors, engineering firms and suppliers. Parties present at Infra Relatiedagen with their knowledge and expertise contribute directly to the major task facing the sector. Think of Nobleo Bouw & Infra, SPIE, BAM & Van Spijker Infrabouw. 

"With the increased size and complexity of projects, long-term collaborations are becoming essential. When links in the chain use each other's expertise, we can work faster and smarter. That leads to fewer delays, lower costs and more sustainable results," says Van Heukelom. "The great thing is that at Infra Relatiedagen, thanks to the wide range of exhibitors and knowledge partners, you will find insights from all phases of these projects. In this way, the entire chain comes together in one place."

Exhibiting at Infra Relatiedagen 2026 is still possible, but the halls are almost sold out. More information about participating or visiting can be found at www.infra-relatiedagen.nl.