Connections and innovations during the seventh National Delta Conference
How do we keep up the pace in the implementation phase, without losing touch with the surrounding area and other partners? This key question was discussed in a crammed Orpheus Theatre in Apeldoorn during the seventh Delta Conference.
Clemens Cornielje, Royal Commissioner in the province of Gelderland, opened the conference. In a new film, the four parties responsible for the Delta Programme – the Association of Netherlands Municipalities VNG, the Association of Provincial Authorities IPO, the Association of Dutch Regional Water Authorities UvW, and the Ministry of Infrastructure and the Environment – showcased the efforts that are underway across the Netherlands.
Rob Bijl, Deputy Director of the Netherlands Institute for Social Research SCP, emphasised the importance of a good relationship based on mutual trust between administrators, policy makers, and citizens. Urban development expert Riek Bakker made a plea for an inspiring vision on water-conscious area development. Peter Veld discussed his positive assessment of the Delta Act with day chair Inge Diepman. In his address, he also pointed out the importance of participation in this phase of the Delta Programme.
In a video message, Minister Schultz van Haegen looked back on a wonderful year in terms of water issues and collaboration. The new standards for primary flood defences and the launch of the Delta Plan on spatial adaptation are reason for her to have every faith in a climate-conscious future.
During the conference, host Wim Kuijken tied in with the National Climate Summit held last week in Rotterdam. ‘We aim to counteract climate change while at the same time being prepared for it. Mitigation and adaptation are two sides of the same climate medal.’
In parallel sessions on water governance, spatial adaptation, flood risk management, and freshwater supply, the participants addressed propositions and issues related to interconnectivity and innovation. Next week, an e-magazine will be published featuring the results of these sessions, among other things.
The Delta Parade was also focused on establishing new connections. In addition to the programmes and projects implemented in the context of the Delta Programme, new partners such as the Cultural Heritage Agency of the Netherlands and the Security Regions introduced themselves.
Spotlight
Every year, the Delta Programme Commissioner turns the spotlight on an individual or project from the Delta Programme. This year, Wim Kuijken selected the Doorbraak project initiated by the Vechtstromen district water board. This project is a fine example of how various taskings can be interconnected in a single, integrated project. A new 13 km waterway near Almelo reduces pluvial flooding in the city and combats dehydration of farmland. At the same time, the ecological connection between Twente and the Sallandse Heuvelrug offers opportunities for plants, animals, and recreation.