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Rahmede Valley Bridge reopens after months of costly disruptions for local businesses

A lifeline returns for Lüdenscheid’s economy as the bridge reopens—ending months of lost customers and soaring costs for entrepreneurs. Will this be the comeback local businesses desperately needed?

In this image we can see a bridge over the river, buildings, trees, ground, hills, fences and sky.
In this image we can see a bridge over the river, buildings, trees, ground, hills, fences and sky.

Rahmede Valley Bridge reopens after months of costly disruptions for local businesses

The Rahmede Valley Bridge in Lüdenscheid will finally reopen on 22 December 2025. After months of disruption, residents and small business owners are looking forward to the return of normal traffic. Straßen.NRW, the state road authority, has confirmed the date and will oversee the reopening process.

The bridge closure forced drivers onto lengthy detours, causing major issues for local businesses. Philip Linnepe, who runs a beverage supply business, saw one of his outlets lose 80 percent of its customers. His firm, which delivers drinks to pubs and restaurants, also faced higher costs and logistical headaches due to the longer routes.

The bridge’s return will ease traffic and reduce travel times for locals. Businesses like Linnepe’s can now plan for smoother deliveries and fewer losses. While restrictions will apply at first, the long-awaited reopening marks a turning point for the community.

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