Start of investigation into silting coastal area estuary Haringvliet
A comprehensive study of the siltation of the coastal area at the Haringvliet estuary began in November 2020. This is stated in the cooperation agreement "Coastal South Holland Islands, Research into the effects of coastal morphology in the Haringvliet estuary," which twelve parties recently signed. They are the province of South Holland, the municipalities Voorne aan Zee, Goeree-Overflakkee, Hellevoetsluis, Nissewaard and water board Hollandse Delta, Rijkswaterstaat, Port of Rotterdam, Natuurmonumenten, Zuid-Hollands Landschap and Recreatieschap Voorne-Putten.
Silting
Silting up is taking place off the coast of Voorne, at the Kop van Goeree and in the channel to the Haringvliet. Already you can walk very far into the sea before you are waist deep in water. This affects nature, the character of the beach area, recreational opportunities and water safety, among other things. In the latter aspect, rising sea levels also play a role.
Research
To make good choices for the area in the future, a comprehensive study of silting and its effects is important. In the coming year, the research will focus on the natural development of the coastal area. In other words: exactly how fast and where is the silting taking place, what are the consequences for water safety, ecology, recreation, economy and livability. Based on the results expected by the end of 2021, the parties can proceed with the development of the coastal area.
Delegate Jeannette Baljeu of the province of South Holland thinks it is of great value that all parties are working together on this: "Silting up affects the entire region and all kinds of different aspects such as water safety, nature and tourism. That is why it is so important that we work together on this. I find it very special that we are now working with these twelve parties to look at this development from different interests and perspectives, so that together we can make the right choices for this region in the future."