Optimization of HHNK Storage Areas
There are a total of 61 water storage areas within our management area. During periods of flooding, these areas serve as temporary water reservoirs to limit or prevent flood damage. Work is underway at approximately 30 of these storage areas to improve the inflow of water and increase their storage capacity.
What's going to happen?
Of the 61 flood storage areas within HHNK’s management area, 35 are actively managed so that they can be utilized during a flooding event. In June 2021, it became apparent that by improving the inflow from the surrounding water system and increasing storage capacity, it is possible to optimize approximately 30 flood storage areas.
The project began in 2024 with preparations for these 30 locations. An assessment was conducted of all locations to ensure compliance with all laws and regulations pertaining to: nature, soil, archaeology, cables and pipelines, the HHNK water permit, and the municipal environmental permit.
Where necessary, studies were conducted to verify whether the theoretical assumptions held true in practice. HHNK receives a grant from the European Union for 22 water storage projects. The deadline for receiving the grant is that the work must be completed by the end of 2028 at the latest. To meet this deadline, it was decided to begin work as soon as possible once the planning phase is complete. This is currently the case for ten locations:
Name of salvage area | Municipality |
|---|---|
| t Hoekje | Schagen |
| Croon & Bergh | Schagen |
| Drachterveld | Drechterland |
| Duck Decoy | Medemblik |
| Wognum Ice Rink | Medemblik |
| Koetengat | Schagen |
| LQ | Schagen |
| Roesloot | Schagen |
| Bell Jar | Schagen |
| Sieve Mill | Schagen |
Where and when will the projects take place, and how long will they last?
The first ten projects are ready for implementation and are located in the municipalities of Schagen, Medemblik, and Drechterland. For the remaining water storage facilities, the planning phase will be further developed in the coming period. The plan is to contract a contractor for the remaining water storage facilities through two separate bids in 2027.
The 22 projects receiving funding from the European Union must be completed by December 31, 2028. In addition, several other water storage facilities will be optimized in the period following that date. As soon as a schedule for these projects is available, we will share it.
Who do we work with?
Because the sites are spread throughout the entire management area, we are dealing with ten different municipalities. Various stakeholders, such as conservation organizations, the recreation authority, and leaseholders/users, are involved in the preparation of the work.
The bidding process for the first ten projects is currently being prepared so that work can begin by the end of 2026. The work will be carried out by a contractor familiar with the area.
The planned work (depending on the area) consists of:
- Raising the Quays
- Modifying the waterway
- Modifications to structures such as weirs
- Construction of new engineering structures
Want to know more?
For more information about this project, please contact Project Developer Mr. J. Zijp via ourcontact format or by phone at 072-582-8282.
