Wide foreshore
Widening the foreshore creates a
more attractive recreational area.
There is more room for nature
development and facilities for
leisure activities are possible.
Stronger foreshore
The willows growing on the foreshore
break the waves and so the dike does
not need to be so high. An additional
layer on the dike makes it possible to
build houses on it.
© DELTARES/DESIGN: FRÉDÉRIK RUYS
Jack-up houses
New and old houses on and beside the
strengthened dike can be built on jack-up lines
in order to meet the challenges of the future.
Should climate change or other standards
make it necessary, they can be jacked up to
allow the dike to be strengthened.
CREATIVE USE OF DIKES
The answer to this challenge is a more creative approach to the opportunities afforded
by dikes. It is precisely when we make our flood defences stronger and wider that
we can do much more than the simple, familiar things that we have been doing for
centuries. This makes it possible to kill two birds with one stone: flood protection can be
improved for the long term and broad public support can be achieved as the quality of
the living environment will improve significantly.
Innovative, multifunctional dikes can cope with future challenges and they ensure that
we make the most of the available space, which is at a premium in delta areas. More
space becomes available for recreational and residential purposes, both in urban and
rural areas. Dikes are no longer barriers. They become part of the living environment,
restoring the links with nature and water that so many local residents wish to see.
For more information:
ellen.tromp@deltares.nl
…
AND IN THE FUTURE
City park
Green areas can be planted
to replace the road, upgrade
natural value and extend
recreational opportunities
in towns. More green areas
are also a good way of
counteracting heat stress, and
they ensure better drainage of
excess rainwater.
Road in the dike
Building the road in the dike
instead of on top of it creates
space for a city park. The
outer wall of the tunnel is
strengthened, and it keeps out
the water.
Closer to the water
The robust upgrading of a dike makes it
possible to build closer to the water.
Car park
The tunnel provides
access to an
underground car park
in the dike.