Holland Scherm specializes in noise-reducing solutions along roads, railways, and industrial areas. Commissioned by governments and developers, the company delivers innovative noise barriers that reduce sound pollution and contribute to a healthier living environment. A current example is the noise barrier they are building along the A28 motorway, near the new residential area of Harderweide in Harderwijk.
Noise barrier for a healthier living environment
This barrier is part of the broader Harderweide area development and is being constructed on behalf of the Municipality of Harderwijk. The goal: to reduce traffic noise and create a pleasant, quiet living environment for current and future residents.
The construction approach is forward-thinking. Prefabricated concrete panels are used, allowing for fast and efficient installation. Part of the barrier is built on an eight-meter-high embankment; the other part is at ground level. A total of 880 concrete panels and 100 glass panels are being installed, each weighing around 770 kg. On top of the barrier, a WHIS Top noise diffuser will be placed along its entire length. This special profile deflects sound waves, enabling the total height of the barrier to be two meters lower while still achieving the same noise reduction as a taller wall.
Fully emission-free construction
Due to the proximity to the Wolderwijd lake – a designated Natura 2000 area – a nitrogen- and CO₂-free construction method was essential. For this reason, Holland Scherm deliberately chose zero-emission equipment, including the electric Sennebogen 653 telescopic crawler crane. This crane is used to lift and position steel columns, concrete and glass panels, and WHIS® Top elements. Its pick-and-carry capability makes it ideal for the narrow, elongated construction site along the A28.
Practical experience
The initial experiences with the electric crane have been positive. “The machine performs very well: it’s quiet and causes no noise disturbance. Plus, a full battery lasts us two days. Fast charging is a major advantage,” says Jan Willem Post, site manager at Holland Scherm.
The choice for this crane was also influenced by its reach. “We initially considered an electric telehandler, but it didn’t provide the required outreach. Thanks to the Sennebogen’s reach, we could place the track mats further away from the embankment. The crane offers more than enough extra capacity, which makes working with it much more convenient.”
Looking ahead: More electric equipment
The investment in this electric crane aligns with Holland Scherm’s broader sustainability strategy. “We expect to use electric cranes more frequently in the future, provided it meets our clients’ requirements. While it’s more expensive than a comparable diesel model, it perfectly matches our ambition to build emission-free.”
Collaboration
According to Holland Scherm, the collaboration with Van den Heuvel went smoothly. “Clear guidance and instructions. So far, we haven’t had any additional requests – everything is going as planned.”
The project along the A28 at Harderweide demonstrates how technical expertise, smart equipment choices, and sustainable ambitions come together in practice. By opting for prefabricated construction and fully emission-free equipment, Holland Scherm proves that efficient building and care for the environment can go hand in hand.
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