The support is not a new policy but a tool that strengthens existing processes. An important principle is: water and soil as guiding. This means that spatial choices must be aligned at an early stage with what the water and soil system can and cannot handle.
A tool for spatial plans
The support is a practical collection of maps and descriptions that help municipalities, initiators, and developers in making plans for the living environment. It contains:
- explanation of different landscapes and how water and soil function within them,
- current maps per theme, such as water safety, drought, heat, soil conditions, and water quality,
- insight into effects on built areas, agriculture, and nature,
- concrete examples of measures applicable in certain areas.
From mid-October, the maps are expected to be available digitally via the Atlas Limburg. They are based on the best available knowledge and will be regularly updated. Thus, the support provides reliable information that can serve as a basis for policies and plans, such as the Provincial Environmental Vision or the Water Management Program.
Water and soil as a starting point
The Province and Water Authority Limburg find it important that water and soil are taken much more as a starting point in the use of the scarce space in our country.
Josette Van Wersch, board member of Water Authority Limburg: “It is important that water interests are taken into account from the beginning. With the support, we make risks and opportunities visible. This way, plans can be designed where water safety, water quality, and climate resilience are inherently part of our living environment.”
Michael Theuns, provincial executive of the Province of Limburg, also emphasizes this: “For the province, it goes beyond just water. We must ensure future-proof choices for housing, agriculture, nature, and infrastructure. The support helps us and municipalities to take into account the long-term effects of climate change in those choices.”
Working together for a sustainable living environment
The development of the support shows how the Province and Water Authority Limburg collaborate. By combining their knowledge and perspectives, a powerful tool is created that supports municipalities, governments, and initiators in making better choices. This not only ensures smoother collaboration between governments but also a healthy, safe, and sustainable living environment for all residents of Limburg.
