The Dutch Council of State today ruled that the generic building exemption is null and void. Although this is obviously a setback, the decision by the Council of State was not unexpected for Heijmans and we were prepared for it.
Heijmans therefore reiterates its outlook for this year and next year, as published this morning in a trading update. Irrevocable permits stand, so projects currently under construction will continue.
New residential building projects are still possible, provided the nitrogen emissions remains within the legal limits and this is demonstrated using AERIUS calculations. Heijmans has already had AERIUS calculations made of the construction phase for almost all of the projects under its own development. Heijmans therefore believes that any delays can be kept to a minimum.
Heijmans expects larger infrastructure projects to experience limited additional disruption, as a result of the expiry of the construction exemption. Heijmans also sees opportunities to continue to reduce nitrogen emissions during the construction phase by using electric equipment.