There was an increasing need for coastal defenses in Delfzijl due to rising sea levels and climate change. The dike reinforcement project in Delfzijl was part of the national flood protection program known as Het Hoogwaterbeschermingsprogramma (HWBP). Space in this urban area was limited, and many programmatic issues came into play, which together required an integrated approach. The Delfzijl beach boulevard was part of the project known as Marconi Buitendijks.
The Marconi Buitendijks project has linked the city center of Delfzijl back to the Wadden Sea. This project transformed the coastline of Delfzijl, making it a beautiful entrance to the Wadden Sea World Heritage site. The project also concentrated on creating a salt marsh landscape along the coast. The goal is to enhance nature by providing more habitats for animals and plants, such as salt marshes and salty grasslands. The project aimed to show how an integrated approach can be taken to primary civil engineering tasks, factoring in spatial quality. The project also aimed to demonstrate how we can influence a larger whole – in this case, the city – both spatially and over time by boosting the city’s socio-economic development.
Gateway to UNESCO World Heritage Site Wadden Sea
The Wadden Sea and the city of Delfzijl in the province of Groningen are inextricably linked. Seafaring, fishing: it’s in people’s DNA. The city radiates a maritime atmosphere. The arrival of a boulevard on Delfzijl’s dyke has created an opportunity to express that relationship. For the design, this has involved visible links to the Wadden Sea and metaphorical references to the Wadden Sea World Heritage Site. For instance, maps have been incorporated into the paving work, using current and marsh patterns and matching the colours and materials to the Wadden Sea’s natural palette. Coast-related artwork has also been included in the design.
Linking city and beach
Delfzijl is a waterside city. The dyke reinforcement has increased the visual barrier between the town and the beach. At the same time, it has also provided an opportunity to improve the physical connection between the city centre and the beach. The construction of a new bicycle and pedestrian bridge and the renovation work on Vennenplein is a good example of that. The boulevard’s design offers good connections to the surrounding area and accommodation for all target groups. It thus forms a central point between the city-sea and dyke-port axes.
Fitting into the dyke landscape
The sea dyke was partly constructed landward after the reinforcement work, which widened the beach. The design of the dyke is very characteristic due to its meandering trajectory. This meandering line inspired the boulevard’s design. A cycle path and footpath follow the same meandering lines, and any level differences are bridged with uniform undulations. Angled, clean lines create space for squares and scenic viewpoints. This design language aligns with the design of the bridge and Vennenplein.
High-quality vibrant space with excellent accessibility
A visit to the Delfzijl coast is a varied experience. The boulevard is the central location, providing an opportunity to stroll and look out to sea. Windbreaks provide shelter in bad weather. On fine days, you can access the entire width of the beach. It’s even accessible to wheelchairs and carts. There are steps where you can take a break and have a sit down, and the benches with backrests offer a bit more comfort. Events are held on the beach, where the steps can serve as stands. The water playground offers entertainment on calm days – even at low tide. The viewpoint has binoculars, where you can catch a glimpse of Germany and the birds on the salt marshes. Connected to the boulevard, you can stop off at the central square to get your bearings. You’ll often find an ice cream cart or fish stall. From here, there’s a good route to the salt marsh, dyke and harbour. Next to the beach, a space has been designated for a permanent pavilion, which will enhance the overall beach experience and make it an attractive destination throughout the year. The realization of the pavilion is currently in development.
Location:
Beach Boulevard Delfzijl
9934 AR Delfzijl
Design year: 2021
Year Completed: 2021
