In Zeebrugge (Bruges – West Flanders) the renovated marina was officially opened this week. The Maritime and Coastal Services Agency , the MDK, and the City of Bruges have invested a total of 19 million euros to protect the harbour from flooding from the sea. Efforts have been made across the marina to make public spaces more attractive.
Zeebrugge Marina and its surroundings have seen enormous change in recent years. The latest works are intended to better protect the marina and the area behind it against flooding from the sea. Due to climate change, sea levels are rising and extreme weather conditions are becoming more frequent. This also increases the risk of flooding from the sea.
Protecting the coast
“People won’t need to worry at least until 2070,” says Nathalie Balcaen, Director-General of Flemish Maritime and Coastal Services. “For instance, we have invested in a storm surge barrier around the channel. Walls that blend in with the surrounding architecture have been erected around the harbour."
"The mobile barriers can be closed when a storm is forecast, allowing local residents and tourists to still pass through."
"For more than 10 years, we have been working on a Coastal Safety Master Plan to protect our coastline, including by bringing in extra sand to raise the beaches. But here in the harbour, that is obviously not an option, so we have opted for more robust measures," Balcaen adds.
A more pleasant appearance
The majority of the 19 million euros invested comes from the Flemish Maritime and Coastal Services Agency. The works also include deepening one of the docks, the Tijdok, and installing a new quay wall, new tubular pylons and additional jetties. The City of Bruges invested one million euros, specifically funding additions designed to make the area more attractive.
"This project has given our marina a completely new look," says Bruges Mayor Dirk De fauw. "In the Tijdokstraat, a green embankment wall has been created with trees, shrubs, grasses and flowers. There is now also a raised platform with benches, and the Vismijnplein has been paved with soft surfaces and landscaped too."
"The marina is now a place where everyone enjoys spending time," says the Mayor of Bruges.