Framework agreement Benedenscheldebekken
Working together for healthy, resilient waterways
Framework agreement Benedenscheldebekken
Through the framework agreement for the Lower Scheldt Basin, the Flemish government aims to systematically work towards healthier rivers, streams, and lakes, a reduced risk of flooding, and greater resilience to drought. Witteveen+Bos supports the Flemish Environment Agency (VMM) with studies and plans that provide concrete solutions to achieve these goals. Together, we are taking an important step towards a climate-resilient Flanders.
Extra focus on the Lower Scheldt Basin
Since 2003, Flanders has been implementing an integrated water policy. The 2022 River Basin Management Plans further refine that policy. They set out exactly what actions are needed to improve water quality and strengthen our resilience to the impacts of climate change.
Some areas require special attention. The Benedenvliet, located in the Lower Scheldt Basin, is one such priority area: here, water quality must be improved and the natural state of the watercourse restored. This includes reintroducing meanders, enabling fish migration, and managing sudden flooding and dry periods in a smarter way.
Our role in the framework agreement
The VMM framework agreement brings together knowledge and expertise in a single programme. Together with provinces, water authorities and local partners, we work on:
- the restoration of watercourses and riverbanks
- improved water quality
- solutions for flooding and drought
Our experts have many years of experience with this type of integrated project. We deliver studies that are both technically robust and practically feasible.
First major study: Groot Schijn, Benedenvliet and Antitankgracht
Within this framework contract, preliminary studies are currently underway in the province of Antwerp. We are implementing a wide range of measures to make the waterways more resilient and liveable:
- restoring natural structures to strengthen resilience against drought and flooding
- removing barriers to fish migration so fish can move freely
- enhancing water experience to make the connection between people and water more visible and tangible
- optimising water level management to better align levels with seasonal and ecological needs
- rewilding waterways to give them more space
- removing pavement around a recycling park so rainwater can infiltrate and nature can thrive
Together, these measures lead to improved water management and a more pleasant, liveable environment along the waterways.
Result for people and nature
These measures not only improve water management, but also enhance the living environment. Less risk of flooding, better protection against drought, and greater ecological value.
Supporting the communication process
As well as formulating the permit aspect and the project EIA, Witteveen+Bos is also advising the client on the communication process. For example, we have produced an infomercial to inform local residents about the works and we supported the client during the first physical information meeting.
The renovation works on the reservoirs are set to start in summer 2023. The project EIA is currently being further refined.
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