Decisions of the AB meeting on October 23

Preliminary survey of second pressure pipe Damsterdiep - Garmerwolde

A large pressure pipe runs from the Damsterdiep sewage pumping station in the city of Groningen to transport wastewater from households and businesses to the sewage treatment plant in Garmerwolde. This pipe carries 3,000 cubic meters of wastewater per hour. When it rains, that amount increases significantly to 12,000 cubic meters per hour. This pipe was put into use in 1978. In the meantime, there have been many new developments in and around the city of Groningen. Increasing urbanization is putting more pressure on the capacity of the sewage treatment plant and, consequently, on this large pressure pipe. Climate change is adding to this pressure with peak rainfall or longer periods of heavy precipitation. The pipe is in continuous use, which limits the possibilities for inspection. In order to be able to safely discharge wastewater in a future-proof manner, the general board of Noorderzijlvest is making €100,000 available. This will enable the water board to conduct a preliminary study into the possibilities and impact of constructing a second pressure pipe.

Amendment to Water Board Regulations

Since the introduction of the Water Board Regulation on January 2, 2024, the water board has been able to test the practical application of the new rules and reporting requirements. In its implementation, the water board encounters situations that require an update of a number of rules and provisions. Sometimes there is too much regulatory pressure where this is no longer necessary or efficient. Sometimes the water board sees that tightening up is needed to make responsibilities explicit, for example in maintenance or new activities. The general board has agreed to the proposed update.

Appointment of member of the executive committee

Elze Reitsema (Water Natuurlijk) will take up his temporary position on the executive committee on a permanent basis. He succeeds Arie van Wijk. Elze Reitsema's permanent appointment will take effect on November 7.