The area near Moordrecht covers 300 hectares. Several agricultural businesses are located here, and there are a few dozen residents. There is subsidence and soil upheaval.
Therefore, the water board previously decided to fix the water level. As a result, the area will become wetter, especially where the soil still consists of peat. This has consequences for the agricultural use of the land. An accessible and experiential nature area with space for a few (nature) farms is one of the most feasible future-proof functions for this area.
Amount Granted
Now, the Province of South Holland, the Water Board of Schieland and the Krimpenerwaard, and the municipality of Zuidplas can further respond together. They are collaborating on the Restveen project, one of the measures of the South Holland Program for Rural Areas (ZH-PLG). For the Restveen project, € 11.8 million has now been granted as the first amount for the period 2025-2029.
Perspective
Frank Rijkaart: “I am incredibly proud that we as a province are taking an important step for the future of farmers in the Zuidplaspolder. During my visits to this area, farmers expressed their concerns to me. They indicated that a possible change in their operations is only feasible with a clear vision for the future and financial support. We have responded to that as a province.
With the funds that will be made available, it will be ensured that these entrepreneurs also retain their perspective. Moreover, we have committed ourselves to agricultural nature management, so that together with the water board, the municipality, and the farmers, we build a future-proof Zuidplaspolder.”