Düsseldorf: Theodor-Heuss Bridge closed to heavy vehicles from February 1

From today (February 1, 2026), a full traffic ban applies on the Theodor-Heuss Bridge in Düsseldorf for vehicles with a gross vehicle weight exceeding 3.5 tonnes. This is another major crossing over the Rhine to face restrictions, following the earlier limitations introduced on the Josef-Kardinal-Frings Bridge.

The ban affects trucks, buses and other heavy commercial vehicles, with direct consequences for transit logistics and regional transport.
For vehicles over 3.5 tonnes, Düsseldorf authorities have designated official diversion routes:

Vehicles approaching from the west (NRW / left bank of the Rhine):

• from the Autobahnkreuz Kaarst interchange via the Autobahn-Viereck (A52 / A57 / A46),
• alternatively, within the city via the Rheinknie Bridge.

Vehicles approaching from the east:

• diversion via B8 – Danziger Straße using the A44,
• or via B1 (Kennedydamm / Rheinufertunnel) with crossing over the Rheinknie Bridge.
The city is informing drivers about the ban and diversion routes through road signage and variable message signs (VMS) placed along major traffic corridors.
Düsseldorf authorities introduced the restriction for structural safety reasons. The Theodor-Heuss Bridge, built in 1957, requires comprehensive protection against further degradation. Previous traffic loads — including regular crossings by vehicles weighing over 30 tonnes — have significantly accelerated wear on its load-bearing structures.