A major new urban precinct is taking shape at KJ Plein in the centre of Den Haag, Netherlands with Liebherr tower cranes playing a key role in its construction.
Two Liebherr 550 EC-H 20 Litronic cranes have been operating on site since late 2023, supporting the delivery of the large-scale mixed-use development scheduled for completion in spring 2026.
Located beside Den Haag Central Station, the KJ Plein project is one of the most significant urban regeneration developments in the Netherlands’ third-largest city. It includes two residential towers, each rising 93 metres, and will deliver 395 apartments across owner-occupied, rental and social housing categories. Around 1,300 square metres of space will be dedicated to retail and hospitality, alongside new public areas. The development has been designed by architecture firm Powerhouse Company.
To manage complex lifting tasks in a dense inner-city environment, the developer selected two Liebherr 550 EC-H 20 Litronic cranes from Van der Spek Netherlands’ rental fleet. The high-top cranes have hook heights of up to 120 metres and have been climbed in three stages to match the rising structures. They are used to lift and position precast concrete elements, reinforcement, formwork and façade modules with high precision.
Working in a busy station precinct presents significant challenges, including restricted space and strict delivery schedules. The cranes’ compact design, high lifting capacity and precise control allow materials to be handled safely and efficiently within these constraints.
Façade installation has been a major focus of crane operations. Using the Liebherr cranes, crews have installed around 10,000 aluminium cassette panels, 7,600 square metres of GRC façade elements and more than 11,000 square metres of aluminium window frames. Some work has taken place at night due to the site’s proximity to transport routes and residential areas, requiring compliance with noise and lighting regulations.
The Liebherr 550 EC-H 20 Litronic cranes offer lifting capacities of up to 20 tonnes and feature a modular design that allows them to adapt as construction progresses. Their efficient climbing system reduces downtime, helping the project stay on schedule.
The KJ Plein development highlights a modern approach to sustainable urban living. Alongside energy-efficient buildings, the project includes green roof terraces, inner courtyards and landscaped outdoor spaces designed to enhance the quality of life for future residents.