Aduarderzijlen lock complex

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The lock complex with two bridges, known as 'De Aduarderzijlen', was in poor condition. It has therefore been restored. In addition to the restoration, ideas to make the area more attractive for recreational activities have also been implemented.

Aduarderzijlen lock complex repaired

The historic Aduarderzijlen lock complex was officially reopened on Thursday, May 8, 2025, by representatives of the water board, municipality, and province. In addition to the restoration of the locks, investments were also made in enhancing the landscape and recreational facilities in the vicinity of the complex to give the area a future-oriented quality boost.

Aduarderzijlen lock complex restored to its former glory

What have we done?

  1. Replacing and restoring the bridges. Because they are listed buildings, they have been restored in an authentic manner.
  2. Restoration and refurbishment of theAduarderzijlen. The jointing and brickwork were in poor condition in many places. Everything was dried out for this purpose. This is a major part of the project because the waterway had to be closed for several months.
  3. Modifications to the landscape and the creation of small-scale recreational facilities. A landscape historian and landscape architect were engaged for this purpose.
  4. Creating natural banks at the Aduarderzijlen along the Aduarderdiep.
  5. The plans are detailed in the drawings below. Drawings 1 to 3 relate to the western bridge/lock (Westerzijl) and drawings 4 to 7 relate to the eastern bridge/lock (Oosterzijl).

Video restoration

Restoration of Aduarderzijlen - November 2024

Text explanation accompanying video

The historic Aduaderzijlen lock complex, built in 1867, is located in one of the most beautiful spots in the Groningen countryside. It is a remarkable landmark at a crossroads of waterways... and a popular place for cycling, canoeing, or boating while enjoying the panoramic views. 

In 2022, the national monument was in need of a major refurbishment. The Noorderzijlvest Water Authority began restoring the two locks and accompanying bridges. First, construction pits were dug, after which the water was pumped out of the locks. The joints were chiseled out and the masonry and natural stone were repaired. Everything was restored in an authentic manner, using traditional craftsmanship. 

By mid-2023, the traditional craftsmanship was complete and the locks were restored to their former glory. After the work was completed, the locks were restored to their former glory and, as a final touch, the surrounding area was enhanced in terms of landscaping and recreational facilities. Among other things, new paths, jetties, and a parking lot were added. 

This video was commissioned by the Noorderzijlvest Water Authority and made possible by: Tennet, National Program Groningen. In collaboration with: Province of Groningen, Municipality of Westerkwartier, Farmers, citizens, and rural residents of Aduarderzijl and surrounding areas.
 

Drawing plans

If you are unable to read any of the documents for any reason, please send an email to l.meyer@noorderzijlvest.nl.

Renovation layout plan for Aduaderzijl

The construction sign states the name of the project as 'Plusmaatregelen Landschap en Recreatie Aduarderdiep' (Plus Measures for Landscape and Recreation Aduarderdiep). The client is the Noorderzijlvest Water Authority. The contractor is Kramer from Metslawier. The project is made possible in part by subsidies from TENNET and the National Program Groningen.

The development plan (PDF) was adopted by the project group (consisting of the Municipality of Westerkwartier, the Province of Groningen, and the NZV Water Board) Aduarderzijl (part of the Aduarderdiep area plan). The development plan plus measures for recreation and landscape Aduarderzijl. The implementation of the additional measures was made possible by a subsidy from the National Program Groningen and a contribution from the TENNET landscape compensation fund.

Renovation layout plan for Aduaderzijl.pdf

Planning

  1. Completed: Bridges

    January 2022 – February 2023

  2. Completed: Zijlen

    February 2023 - December 2023

  3. Completed: Other activities

    July 2023 - April 2025

Documents

If you are unable to read any of the documents for any reason, please send an email tol.meyer@noorderzijlvest.nl.

Following thesecond open evening in Aduarderzijl in December 2022, the layout plan for the small-scale, recreational, and landscape elements has been amended.

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The history of Aduarderzijl

Location

Map of Aduarerzijl Lock

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Video clip

Drone image (August 2023): the image is taken from above and shows the western old lock and the eastern tube lock. Both locks are currently being restored. This involves replacing poor jointing, loose stones in the masonry, and refurbishing the natural stone elements. The windworks at both locks are also being addressed. All in all, this is a complete restoration of a very beautiful place in our water board area. The white farmhouse in the background is the monumental Waarhuis. This is where the King and Queen used to live, who played a crucial role in access to the Aduarderdiep and thus also to the city of Groningen.  

Photos

Photo of the restoration of the sluice gate (De Aduarderzijlen)
Aerial photograph of De Aduarderzijlen