Construction of Sammerspolder storage area
During the flooding in June 2021, the vulnerability of the area west of Alkmaar became apparent. The area, approximately 5,000 hectares (about 3,500 soccer fields) in size, lies in a basin between the dunes and the higher-lying areas of Bergen and Heiloo. With the construction of the water storage facility, we will be able to better manage flooding situations in the future.
What's going to happen?
We have started preparations for the construction of the Sammerspolder storage area. The Sammerspolder drains excess water into the Schermerboezem using the Sammerspolder pumping station. The water in the reservoir is discharged into the open water via Den Helder (Wadden Sea), Zaandam (North Sea Canal), Schardam, and Monnickendam (Markermeer).
One bottleneck in the drainage system is Alkmaar's cramped water system. Due to the existing buildings, it is almost impossible to make adjustments to the water system. That is why the possibility of temporarily storing water at a location west of Alkmaar during a flood situation was investigated: 'Sammerspolder storage area'.
Similar to the Bergen Airport storage area, this is a storage area that can be used primarily for the Sammerspolder and secondarily for the reservoir (and surrounding polders). Not only the Sammerspolder benefits from this storage location, but all polders west of Alkmaar that drain into this drainage system. They can continue to drain for longer without having to stop pumping.
In order to construct the 'Sammerspolder reclamation area' (more than 11 hectares, approximately 8 soccer fields), the following work must be carried out:
- lowering the ground level by excavating soil;
- the construction of quays along the edges of the plot;
- damping and adjusting locks;
- the construction of various structures such as a pump (to be relocated outside the storage area), culverts, and inlets/outlets;
- the installation of drainage;
- adjusting the water level in the storage area to suit the use of the plot as grassland.
Where is the project taking place?
The project is located east of the village of Egmond aan den Hoef in the Sammerspolder, which is part of the municipality of Bergen. The water storage area is surrounded by quays and is located north of the Het Maalwater cycle path.
When will the project take place and how long will it last?
Work will commence in early 2025 and continue until the end of 2025.
Who do we work with?
We work together with local farmers, the municipality of Bergen, and the province of North Holland.
This project is co-financed by the European Union.
Want to know more?
For more information about this project, please contact Mr. J. Zijp (environmental manager) or Mr. T. Groot (project manager) via ourcontact form or by calling 072 - 582 8282.