To improve livability in the area, the province is creating a green-blue buffer zone: a wide strip of nature and water between the villages and the Oosterhorn industrial area. The Groote Polder is part of this zone. During the area process with residents, it was decided that this low-lying area will not be raised with sludge. The province will further develop the future plans for the Groote Polder together with residents and partners in the coming period.
Other challenges are also included in the area development, such as strengthening the dike, improving accessibility via Valgenweg, better water quality, and more space for nature and recreation. Additionally, there is attention for sufficient fresh water, intended for agriculture, industry, and nature.
Vision Drawing
During an intensive area process with discussions and meetings, residents mapped out and summarized their wishes and points of attention for livability in a Vision Drawing. This was handed over in May this year to the Eemszijlen steering group, which consists of the Province of Groningen, the municipality of Eemsdelta, the Hunze en Aa’s water board, Het Groninger Landschap, Groningen Seaports, and Rijkswaterstaat. The Vision Drawing forms the basis for the established Preferred Decision, together with the principles for nature, water safety, and fresh water. The earlier version of the Preferred Decision (February 2024) has been refined accordingly.
Moving Forward Together
In the coming period, a design plan for the area will be developed. Residents will continue to play an important role: their ideas and knowledge of the area are indispensable in making choices for the future.
Growing Coast
The Eemszijlen area development is part of the broader Growing Coast program. In this program, the Province of Groningen, the municipality of Eemsdelta, the Hunze en Aa’s water board, and other partners work together on a safe and livable coast, fitting the nature of the Eems-Dollard.
