The large greenhouse that collapsed in Middenmeer, North Holland, on Friday collapsed due to an error during renovation work. That’s according to owner Agro Care after an initial investigation.
During the work, the construction of the greenhouse complex was temporarily adjusted incorrectly. Due to a “slight increase in wind,” the greenhouse became unbalanced and collapsed, the company said in a statement. The correct procedure was followed in other greenhouses.
No one was inside when the complex of about nine hectares collapsed on Friday. Staff had stopped working shortly before. As a result, no one was injured.
“We are very shocked, but at the same time we are especially grateful that there are no casualties,” Agro Care said in a statement. The damage is estimated by the company at 20 million euros.
The company will conduct further research into the cause and the exact reason why the correct procedures were not followed during the renovation. The Labor Inspectorate is not investigating because there are no casualties.
In the coming period, Agro Care will work on a plan to rebuild the greenhouse complex. Plants are expected to be back in place at the beginning of next year.