Overview
- The national government, Zuid-Holland province, Rotterdam municipality and the Port of Rotterdam have begun a coordinated exploration under the BO MIRT framework.
- The review will weigh three pathways: intensifying use within the existing port, redeveloping industrial sites in the wider region, and seaward expansion of the Maasvlakte.
- Seaward growth is not preset policy, with required assessments covering ecological impact, nature compensation, nitrogen permits and fisheries effects, plus sand availability as a practical constraint.
- A technical scan indicates up to roughly 1,000 hectares of new land could be feasible on the southwest side of the Maasvlakte.
- Results are expected by the end of 2027, and the port’s chief says expansion would be a logical step only if optimization falls short of needs for hydrogen, offshore-wind links and defense logistics.