Delta Commissioner visits Multi-Layer Safety Smart Combinations pilot in Marken
On Tuesday 27 May, Delta Commissioner Wim Kuijken was warmly received by the Mayor of Waterland, Luzette Wagenaar-Kroon, during his visit to Marken. The island has been designated a protected townscape and Wim Kuijken explored it by bicycle, accompanied by the Mayor. The Delta Commissioner was able to see clearly where the problems lie regarding the dike strengthening that is needed within the framework of the current High-Water Programme 2. That is why a pilot was launched to explore the possibilities for achieving the desired level of protection for Marken using spatial planning measures and/or disaster management measures.
If a multi-layer solution offers sufficient prospects, the most promising combination will be determined in November 2014. These solutions will be elaborated further in an exploratory study. The intention is to set down a preferred solution for further elaboration and realisation close to the summer of 2015. If a multi-layer solution does not offer sufficient prospects, only dike strengthening measures will be further elaborated. The intention is for the realisation phase to begin in 2018.
During the study, a number of workshops will be held with residents, the authorities involved and other stakeholders to search for solutions (building blocks and strategies for multi-layer safety). Representatives from the Marken Island Council will participate in the sounding board Group and the workshops. There will also be regular consultation with the Island Council’s dike strengthening working group.
After the cycling tour, among other things, the Delta Commissioner had a discussion with representatives from the Island Council and gave a brief explanation of water safety policy. He emphasised that this is an opportunity for Marken to implement multi-layer safety measures against flooding. In this regard, prevention by having strong dikes is a priority. The Delta Commissioner dismissed the impression that multi-layer safety mainly involves layers 2 and 3. However, a combination could also be an attractive solution for Marken. It is, however, necessary to pick up the pace. The Delta Commissioner will closely follow progress and if problems arise he is always prepared to discuss them. Responsibility lies with Rijkswaterstaat, the executive arm of the Ministry of Infrastructure and the Environment.