Research into space shortage in the port and improving living environment starts

The Port of Rotterdam faces a unique challenge in its history, focusing not on growth but on the ports transition. This transition is essential to achieve sustainability goals while making a significant contribution to the future earning capacity, supply security, and strategic autonomy of the Netherlands and Europe.

The port industrial complex is a crucial engine for economic development and plays a key role in the energy supply and strategic autonomy of the Netherlands and Europe. However, available space is becoming increasingly scarce. Although space is freed up due to the decline of fossil-based companies, previous studies show that this space, even with infill, will be insufficient. At the same time, the living environment in the region must be improved, as it is currently less satisfactory than desired.

Therefore, the national government, the province of South Holland, the municipality of Rotterdam, and the Port Authority Rotterdam have decided to investigate the space shortage in the port. This exploration focuses both on solving the impending space shortage and improving the living environment in the Rotterdam region. The study examines possible solutions to create space for the energy transition, such as the construction of green hydrogen factories, the import and storage of hydrogen (and hydrogen carriers), and the connection of offshore wind farms. It also looks at resilience efforts and possibilities for Defense and military mobility, where creating more space also plays an important role.

The port transition is not only essential for sustainability but also for the future earning capacity and supply security of the Netherlands and Europe. The exploration investigates three main directions to address the space shortage:

1. Intensification and optimization of space use within the existing port, based on the principle of careful space use.
2. Redevelopment of industrial sites in the broader Rotterdam region.
3. Seaward expansion of the Maasvlakte.

Seaward expansion is not an end in itself nor a given, but one of the possible solutions under investigation. The same applies to the redesign and redevelopment of existing industrial sites in the region. In the case of possible seaward expansion, ecological impact, the need for nature compensation, and effects on fisheries are duly considered. Relevant stakeholders will be involved.

The link between the ports space needs and improving the living environment underscores the necessity of a vital region and a strong metropolis. The ports transition can only succeed if the region as a whole continues to grow healthily and sustainably. Improving the living environment means not only more attention to nature and recreation but also to residents health.

Besides the economic and ecological significance of the port, the Port of Rotterdam also plays an indispensable role in the strategic autonomy of the Netherlands and Europe. The port forms the basis for the storage and transit of strategic goods and provides the necessary infrastructure for military mobility. This makes the port highly important for national and European security, as well as for NATO and Defense logistics.

The research is expected to be completed by the end of 2027. Depending on the outcomes, the next steps in the process will be determined. The involved parties work closely together to conduct the exploration carefully and transparently, also involving relevant stakeholders.