The restoration of the Vlietermonument on the Afsluitdijk, designed by the renowned architect Dudok, is nearly complete. This marks the beginning of the next phase of the project, focusing on the expansion of the Vlietermonument.
During the restoration, work has been done on the repair of the concrete, restoring the original tiling, and installing a new copper roof. Only tasks remain where the connection to the expansion needs to be addressed. This marks the beginning of the next phase of the project, focusing on the expansion of the Vlietermonument.
The next phase was initially intended to be a visible expansion on both sides of the monument. However, due to significantly increased costs, this expansion, which would include space for a restaurant and exhibition area, is no longer feasible. Therefore, it has been decided to forgo the large, visible expansion on the Afsluitdijk. This reconsideration was possible because construction of the expansion outside the monument had not yet begun. The expansion will now take place in a more limited form at the back of the Vlietermonument on the Afsluitdijk itself. This will result in a simpler alternative being built, limiting the cost overruns of the expansion.
Since the expansion is being realized within the dike (internally), the monumental tower remains the focal point at this historic location. The new hospitality space within the Vlietermonument will be doubled in size, and there will be more than twice as many toilets compared to the old lunchroom. Soon, there will also be a system that purifies water from the IJsselmeer, allowing visitors to enjoy locally sourced drinking water in the Vlietermonument.
Outdoor Work
The two jetties at the height of the Vlietermonument are in very poor condition and are now being renovated for that reason. With this addition, the entire outdoor area around the monument is being redesigned. This includes, among other things, parking spaces (for cars and buses), a bus stop, a pedestrian bridge, and a terrace by the water.
Due to all the changes, a new permitting process must be followed. Preparations for this will be made in the coming period. It is expected that the entire project, including the Vlietermonument and outdoor area, will be ready for opening in 2027. The rest area at the Vlietermonument, on the south side of the A7, will remain closed to the public until the end of the work.
The Vlietermonument is owned by Rijkswaterstaat. The restoration and expansion are a joint initiative of Rijkswaterstaat, the municipalities of Hollands Kroon and Súdwest-Fryslân, the provinces of North Holland and Fryslân, and the Wadden Fund. Paul de Ruiter Architects is the involved architectural firm.