The new underground planning map of the Netherlands: a feasibility study of the possibilities of the use of underground space

In 1998 a study was conducted in the Netherlands into the possibilities of a more large-scale and systematic use of the underground in the western par t of the country, the so-called "Randstad". It was intended to be a more fo cused sequel on a study conducted on the possible role that use of the unde rground could play for the whole of the Netherlands, the "Strategic Study o n the utilization of underground space". The study examined the possibiliti es of improving an idealized model of the future spatial development of the Randstad, that was preferred by the provinces comprising this Randstad, by using more extensively he underground space. Improvement meant an enlargem ent of the efficiency of the use of space and maintenance or enlargement of the spatial quality of the area. Societal, cost, groundwater and policy as pects were investigated. The study showed some remarkable results. Gains in available space up to 50% in specific areas seemed possible and, when cost s of working and maintenance were taken into account, underground construct ion for several facilities was no more expensive than above ground construc tion, which contradicts a widely held belief in the Netherlands. (C) 1999 P ublished by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.