29-08-2008

Grontmij has recently been commissioned to carry out a number of assignments designed to improve the safety of the river regions in the Netherlands. The research fits within our activities in the field of sustainable design and engineering, corresponding perfectly to Grontmij’s ambitions and competencies to protect the Netherlands from flood conditions through the application of sustainable and innovative solutions. The various Grontmij assignments will generate approximately 1.7 million Euros in turnover until the year 2010.

"We are currently working  on the ‘Flood Risks and Safety in the Netherlands (Floris)’ programme and the ‘Flood Protection Investment Plan (HWBP)’ ", according to Gert Dral, member of the Executive Board of Grontmij. “Recently we submitted a plan for a Super Levee’ to the Dutch Delta Commission, together with  professor Pier Vellinga. By applying innovative solutions, we hope to make a contribution to the sustainable protection of the Dutch river landscape. To do this, we link safety, water management, ecology and the spatial planning to one another, while respecting the cultural and historical identity of every location. We are very pleased with these four new assignments."



For the Rivierenland Water Board, Grontmij is drawing up an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and design for the Diefdijk Line. A large part of this 23-kilometre long primary dike was built in the 13th century, and forms part of the New Dutch Water Defence Line, a cultural and historical monument. The Diefdijk Line is a complex of transverse dikes between the Lek and the Waal rivers, the purpose of which is to protect the Zuid-Holland province in the event of flooding in the Gelderland province. The assignment will be carried out together with Witteveen+Bos.

Commissioned by the Province of Gelderland and together with HKVlijn in water and the architectural firm Veenenbos & Bosch, Grontmij will conduct a study for one of the largest ‘Space for the Rivers’ projects. In the flood plain between the villages of Veessen and Wapenveld a ‘green’ channel will be designed which will only be used in the event of extreme high water conditions on the Ijssel river. To enhance the spatial quality an approach was chosen which involves the entire region. Apart from improving floodprotection, the goal of the project also involves offering a sustainable future to this beautiful river landscape.

For the Rijnland Water Board, Grontmij will plan and design upgrading of  the dike along the Holland IJssel River. And we have a similar assignment from the Hollandse Delta Water Board for the  dike along the Dordtsche Kil between the Meuse and the Merwede rivers. Both projects are complex due to the cultural and historical values and the partial inner city location.

---

Grontmij aims to be the best local service provider for design, consultancy, management, engineering and contracting in the environment, water, energy, building, industry and transportation sectors. Our staff creates value for our clients and shareholders and helps to build sustainable living and working environments.