The Danish Road Institute and the Road and Hydraulic Engineering Institute in the Netherlands (DWW) carry out a co-operation called the DRI-DWW noise abatement programme [1] which is a part of the Dutch Noise Innovation Program on Road Traffic (the IPG programme) [2]. One of the projects in the DRI-DWW noise abatement programme is dedicated to development and testing of noise reducing thin pavements. In order to collect the latest international knowledge in this field a literature study has been carried out by DRI [3]. As it became clear that there were many interesting experiences in France, staff from DRI and DWW in September 2005 performed a study tour to the French road research institute (Laboratories des Pont et Chausses (LCPC)) situated in Nantes. The expectations at DWW for thin layers are noise reductions of 4 dB on highways and a price cut of 30 % compared to the price of porous pavement. In the Netherlands thin layers have so far mainly been developed and used on urban roads with speeds of 50-60 km/h. Around 20 contracting companies are supplying these pavements. The IPG program is now focussing on the development of thin layers for highway applications. The focus is on noise reduction and durability of noise reduction, structural durability, traffic safety (skid resistance and splash/spray) and other properties. In 2006 DWW will establish 6 large test sections with thin layers on highways. The research program for these test sections are being developed in autumn 2005.