Boekel playground reopens after safety checks on underground heat storage
Residents of Boekel can breathe easy as fences around Kindpark’s playground are removed following successful safety tests on the underground thermal storage system. The innovative technology cuts energy costs but raised concerns after subsidence incidents elsewhere in the Netherlands.
| Key Data | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Kindpark, Boekel (Noord-Brabant) |
| Issue | Potential subsidence risk due to underground thermal storage system |
| Material Used | Zinc (instead of plastic, which caused issues in other Dutch systems) |
| Test Results | Positive; fences removed as structure deemed safe |
| Future Maintenance | Regular checks included in a maintenance contract to ensure long-term safety |
| Benefit | Lower energy bills for Kindpark |
The municipality of Boekel oversees local infrastructure projects, including the installation and maintenance of sustainable energy solutions like thermal storage systems. Their role ensures public safety while promoting energy-efficient technologies for community spaces.
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A lot of hard work happens behind the scenes. Good coffee is more than welcome :)
Read the full translated article below
Fences removed at Kindpark Boekel
In December 2025, part of the square at Kindpark in Boekel was cordoned off with fences. This involved the section beneath which a thermal storage system is located. The reason for installing the fences was a potential risk of subsidence and was primarily a precautionary measure to rule out any risk. The fences have now been removed following the positive results of the tests carried out.
What is a thermal storage system?
A thermal storage system is a large water tank located underground, in the case of Kindpark. In summer, the water is heated, and in winter, this heat is used to warm the Kindpark. The amount of water remains constant throughout the year; only the temperature changes. The advantage? A lower energy bill for the Kindpark.
Subsidence in similar thermal storage systems
In other parts of the Netherlands, subsidence has occurred in similar thermal storage systems. Extensive research was conducted to determine what went wrong. The main reason proved to be the material used for the connections in the structure: plastic. The warm water in these thermal storage systems damaged the material, weakening the structure and ultimately causing subsidence.
Strong construction of Boekel’s thermal storage system
In Boekel, zinc was used instead of plastic. This makes both the connections and the structure significantly stronger. To be sure, the condition of the zinc connections was tested. The results were positive, allowing the construction fences to be removed with confidence, and children can once again safely play on the square.
What does this mean for the future?
In the future, the condition of the structure will be tested regularly. This will be recorded in a maintenance contract, with the aim of guaranteeing safety and extending the lifespan of the thermal storage system. This way, we can continue to benefit from this impressive piece of technology for many more years, helping to save energy—and money.