Sustainable, future-proof and comprehensive

Complete package of infrastructure works for Van Mossel in Waalwijk

From earthwork to sewerage, asphalt paving, site layout and smart charging infrastructure: in the design and realization of the new logistics center of car group Van Mossel in Waalwijk, all disciplines of Heijmans Infra region South are coming together nicely.

Durability, safety and drainage 

"The new building at Haven Acht Oost business park includes a large logistics center with luxury workshop and head office, where the storage, transshipment and distribution of new (lease) cars, used and damaged cars will be cleverly clustered," says Willem van den Berg, project leader at Heijmans Infra. "To this end, we have constructed and equipped a future-proof site of approximately 100,000 m2, with parking space for 3,800 cars and including all the necessary infra facilities." With the new logistics center, Van Mossel Automotive Group is making a major efficiency improvement, emphasizes Jan Heijmans, Business Manager for the South Region at Heijmans Infra. "Moreover, high priority has been given to sustainability, safety and good drainage. In order to make the right choices in each area, we worked very closely with Van Mossel. Both in the design process and during execution."

Work in a nutshell

"In December 2021, we started the earthwork and leveling of the site," Van den Berg says. "This was followed in March by the construction of the storm and wastewater sewers, and then in April and May the sand embankment and circular mix granulate foundation for the asphalt pavement were installed. By the summer of 2022, three-quarters of the site will be asphalted." Phase 2 of the work began in October and included the paving around the building, followed early this year by site finishing. This site finishing includes not only the lighting and cameras, but also the fencing, gabions and barriers that separate the site. "At the start of the work there was already a design for the outdoor area," Heijmans says. "But along the way, we suggested the necessary modifications for a more future-proof site that would better match Van Mossel's ambitions."

Large numbers

As the "main infra contractor," Heijmans Infra Region South had a duty to coordinate all work on and under the (parking) site, Heijmans says. "A challenge, given the large number of companies we had to deal with. For this reason, explicit attention was also paid to safety. For example, by strictly separating the construction work at the headquarters and on the grounds." The large numbers also related to the amount of raw materials and materials that had to be processed, he says. "On the 100,000 m2 site, as much as 25,000 m3 of fill sand and rubble and about 24,000 tons of asphalt were processed. What's special about this is that the asphalt site is laid roof-top, so that rainwater is drained quickly, properly and naturally via the gullies to the sewer system and the six oil/gasoline separators (OBAS). This prevents unwanted puddling on the site." A total of about 5 km of sewer work was constructed, Van den Berg says. "For fencing, 1.5 km of fencing and gabions were installed, in combination with dozens of barriers and associated controls. 45 light masts with smart fixtures provide excellent lighting in the evening and
night hours."

BREEAM-NL lighting design

"On our advice, the lighting recommendation of the preliminary design was adjusted," says Heijmans. "Using a simulation package, our Heijmans E&I department was able to make it very clear that the initial lighting recommendation did not meet the BREEAM-NL 'Very Good' ambition. An improvement according to BREEAM-NL followed, as a result of which Van Mossel is now assured of exactly the right light level at all accommodation areas. This allows employees to safely walk, drive and park on the grounds even in the dusk and dark. In addition, the lighting contributes to the quality and appearance of the logistics center."

Ready for smart charging infrastructure

The "smart" theme additionally relates to mobility, Heijmans says. "Anno 2023, more and more electric cars are being sold. Therefore, we also proposed a smart and future-proof charging infrastructure as a possibility. An important part of this was the underground gutters, which allow for easy expansion in the future. Without having to open the asphalt pavement to do so." Heijmans Infra region South's smart charging solutions optimize the generation, storage and use of solar energy. "An important role in this is played by the solar carports. The solar panels on these carports generate solar energy, which can be used directly to charge the electric cars. A great example of double use of space, which allows Van Mossel to expand its charging infrastructure if desired, at any time and with minimal inconvenience. Thus it is positioned for the future!"