Northeast Groningen Route

In Northeast Groningen, efforts are underway to significantly boost the regional water supply. From Garmerwolde, via Appingedam, to Eemshaven, a brand-new route is being constructed for industrial water. Commissioned by North Water, A.Hak is responsible for the construction, which involves a special collaboration between two business units: Pipeline Construction and Infranet. What began as a large-scale water project unexpectedly evolved into a unique collaboration with grid operator Enexis.

From a two-track policy to one integrated approach
The project started as a commission for A.Hak Pipeline Construction, in collaboration with Waterbedrijf Groningen and North Water. However, just before execution, a third party came forward: Enexis.

The question? Whether Enexis could also simultaneously use the route for the installation of electricity cables. Project Manager Wim Uiterwijk of A.Hak Pipeline Construction explains: “Between the engineering phase and the start, that question from Enexis suddenly arose. Everything was already prepared, so the project had to be significantly revamped.” Fortunately, he didn’t have to think long. He brought in fellow Project Manager Tim Wiersma from A.Hak Infranet.

Tim: “Wim called immediately and said: ‘We’ll just sort it out.’ That attitude characterizes both of us. The projects were intertwined, but through good coordination, we were able to incorporate the entire route immediately.” North Water and Enexis jointly signed a contract in consultation with A.Hak, ensuring the integrated approach from day one.

Courageous Choices and Mutual Trust
A project of this scale requires courage — also from the clients. Wim: “North Water had to agree to an additional participant in the contract. And Enexis had to scale up faster than planned, with budget and personnel. For us as project managers, this means actively contributing ideas, assessing risks, and above all: seeking connection.” Tim adds: “In this region, grid operators, governments, and contractors are all busy with their own tasks. But if you grant each other the opportunity and focus on the bigger picture, a collaboration emerges that goes beyond contracts. You feel: we are truly doing this together.” This collaboration shows that daring to trust each other leads to smart choices and sustainable results for the region.

Smart Phasing in the Field – and with the Farmer
Perhaps the biggest challenge was above ground: coordinating with landowners. Wim: “Nobody wants a double excavation. So we preferred a single work pass. But that also meant: more workspace, a longer duration, and extra communication. Our delivery from end of 2024 shifted to summer 2025. We consciously made these concessions, with mutual understanding.” Tim: “It also requires a certain degree of mutual flexibility. Wim had already arranged a lot when I joined. But we know each other, appreciate each other, and work for the same company. That makes it easier to switch gears.” With a wink, the gentlemen conclude: “Perhaps it works so well because our names are Tim and Wim.”