Helderse Zeewering

So this is not about the developments around the Dijkkwartier, which is another project that we as a water board are involved in. 

What's going on?

The approximately 5 kilometer long Helderse Zeewering protects 1.2 million North Hollanders from high water from the North Sea. The dike has been assessed and no longer meets the water safety standard. It concerns a task on the outside of the dike between Hotel Lands End and Fort Kijkduin.

The image below shows the location of the dike reinforcement where there is a task.

At the Helderse Zeewering, the asphalt on the outside of the dike no longer meets the standard. We have been investigating the asphalt revetment since 2022. With the help of monitoring wells we have investigated whether reinforcement of the asphalt is necessary. Because with a combination of high water and heavy waves, there could be a risk of local sand being washed away under the asphalt. If this occurs, the asphalt could be pushed up and break. The study showed that it is necessary to address the asphalt lining. We will monitor the situation on the Helderse Zeewering until May 2024 so that we have measurement data from two storm seasons.

What are we going to do?

Dike reinforcement projects are divided into three phases: exploration, plan development and realization. The project is currently in the exploration phase. The reconnaissance phase looks at the possible solutions for this dike. The Helderse Zeewering is located along the coastline of the Netherlands and has to deal with heavy waves that hit the outside of the dike. This specific location means that the dike must be strong and therefore not all solutions are possible. Therefore, we involve both internal and external experts to make the right choice. In the end, the best-fit solution is chosen, also called the preferred alternative (VKA).

Want to know what else is involved in dike reinforcement? Then browse digitally through the book Dikes for Beginners.

When will the environment be involved?

The notice of intention and participation was available for public inspection from January 10 to March 1. On February 1 and October 24, we organized walk-in meetings in Huisduinen. The dike reinforcement team explained the project and answered questions.