MIRT report on Alblasserwaard-Vijfheerenlanden presented to Delta Programme Commissioner
On Monday 14 November, Delta Programme Commissioner Wim Kuijken was presented with the final report of the MIRT (multiyear programme for infrastructure, spatial development and transport) study concerning Alblasserwaard-Vijfheerenlanden. The presentation took place during the Rhine Estuary-Drechtsteden Regional Consultative Body meeting which was held at the Sliedrecht Town Hall to mark the occasion. Provincial Executive Councillor Adri Bom-Lemstra and Mayors Bram van Hemmen and Dirk van der Borg presented the final report.
The MIRT study examined the possibilities for intelligently combining dyke improvements with, for example, nature development, commercial expansion, recreational opportunities or improving infrastructure. You can find more information on the MIRT study on www.a5h.nl.
In addition to the final report, the Delta Programme Commissioner also received a special “roll-up” poster (see photo) depicting the region’s unusual line of dykes. Bram van Hemmen praised the collaboration between the parties in the region: ‘Each party had their own interests, but together we looked for a common, shared interest. After all, we all want to keep our feet dry, in the future as well. It is now time to elaborate the results of the study in the form of concrete ideas. Moreover, the collaboration proved so constructive that we are now working on a plan for the years ahead.’
Adri Bom-Lemstra: ‘During the study, the strengths of Alblasserwaard-Vijfheerenlanden were always the starting point. The landscape, the economy and the people who live and work here. For me, that was the true power of the study. It begs to be continued.’
Delta Programme Commissioner Wim Kuijken delivered compliments on the study results and the collaboration in the region. ‘This is a good example of how a region can prepare itself for the future. I will be happy to follow this up within the Delta Programme. My advice is to continue to involve residents and businesses at an early stage of the quest for good solutions.’