The Dutch river basin region had to contend with extremely high water in 1993 and 1995. In 1995 there was even a fear that the dikes would give way. During the years that followed, future protection against high water was carefully considered. In 2000 the government came to the conclusion that another approach was required in view of climate changes (and the expected rise of the sea level and river discharges (i.e. runoff). Just raising the dikes is not a sustainable solution. The decision was therefore taken to give rivers more space and simultaneously to improve the spatial quality of the river basin region.
After an extensive investigation of possible solutions, the government defined the ‘Room for the River’ programme at the end of 2006 with a related package of measures. An ambitious programme that has two objectives. Protecting the river basin region and everybody who lives or works there against flooding is the main objective. In addition, the river basin region must also become more beautiful and attractive.
The programme consists of more than 30 measures to be implemented in the Dutch basin of the Rhine river and the lower reaches of the Meuse river (Bergsche Maas). Varying from river widening by displacing dikes further inland or deepening forelands to more technical interventions such as lowering of groynes in the rivers. Additional dike improvement is required at some places. The Rhine and Meuse rivers will be able to discharge more water into the sea safely as from 2015 with this package of measures.
The ‘Room for the River’ programme falls under the responsibility of the State Secretary for Transport, Public Works and Water Management. The ‘Room for the River’ programme management coordinates the implementation of the programme. The feasibility study for the measures and the actual implementation will be performed by the Ministry of Transport, Public Works and Water Management (Rijkswaterstaat), the province, the water board or the municipality.
