How do you make an international railway line more than just a faster connection? The Wunderline between Groningen and Bremen shows that infrastructure projects only truly gain value when they connect with what's happening in the region. What began as a technical issue concerning travel time and track capacity soon touched upon broader themes such as livability, economic development, and cross-border cooperation. By connecting the interests of education, healthcare, tourism, and the labor market, a program emerged that went beyond the railway itself and garnered support on both sides of the border.

Collaboration and added value strategies

Together with the project partners, developed Eric van Vliet a strategic environmental management approach in which analysis, relationship management, and decision-making went hand in hand. Based on a sharp environmental analysis, an SOM strategy was developed along four pillars: socioeconomic strengthening of the region, organizing broad financial support, actively and structurally connecting stakeholders, and making concrete added value visible for all involved.

By consciously broadening the assignment and making space for different perspectives, the dynamic around the Wunderline. Initially, skepticism and hesitation prevailed, but step by step, trust and a sense of shared ownership grew. The Wunderline thus became not only an infrastructure project but also a catalyst for cooperation, innovation, and long-term development in the northern border region.

Curious how the Wunderline became an example project for cross-border cooperation? Then download the full article.

Senior consultant

Eric van Vliet