September 22, 2025

The initial work on the water storage facility is currently being prepared. In the coming months, we will be constructing two new weirs at Hooiweg and modifying the Doolhof weir. The weirs are expected to be completed in the spring of 2026. Read more about the work, the schedule, and the measures we are taking to protect nature.

Location Rowolder weir - Matsloot-Hooiweg
Location Rowolder weir - Matsloot-Hooiweg

Planning activities 

New weirs

Contractor Oosterhuis has started preparatory work for the construction of two new weirs at Hooiweg/Matsloot. The weirs will be named Vischluststuw (northern weir) and Rowolderstuw (southern weir). In normal circumstances, the weirs lie flat, allowing the water to flow freely.When the extra water storage capacity is used, these weirs are raised to retain water.The plan is for the work on the weirs to be so far advanced by early 2026 that we will be able to operate the northern weir manually and close off the southern channel. If necessary, the extra water storage capacity will then already be partially available.

Modification of the Doolhof weir

In addition to the construction of the new weirs, we are modifying the existing Doolhof weir at the Peizerdiep (see photo below). It will be raised and fitted with a new valve. The quays on either side of the weir will also be raised. 

Maze dam
Photo: Maze dam

Construction work will start in week 41 and is expected to be completed in 2026 before the breeding season.
In the first quarter of 2026, we will also start raising quays and implementing nature measures and additional measures. The full expansion of the water storage facility will be completed in 2027. 

What can you see and notice about the work? 

  • In the coming weeks, a follow-up to earlier archaeological research will first take place. It is possible that remains of peat mounds/house sites or other features will be found.
  • The contractor will then start removing obstacles and mowing the grass. From week 41 onwards, the excavation of peat and the application of sand will commence.
  • The contractor takes nature into account during the work (breeding season, animal safety, and other measures). Ecologists from the water board are involved in the work. View the ecological work protocol.

Transport routes during work

Peat will be removed and sand brought in for the two new weirs. Soil will also be needed to raise the quays at the Doolfhof weir. In addition, equipment will be brought to the construction site. 
The transport routes are indicated on the map below. Trucks will travel via the Hooiweg/Matsloot (the red line) with materials for the construction of the weirs. Soil will be transported via the Cosun path and the Roderwolderdijk (purple line).  
During the work on the weirs, public roads will remain accessible to other traffic. However, traffic may experience some disruption from freight traffic. Local residents will receive additional information about this. 

Transport routes New weirs to be modified
Transport routes: soil, tools, and other materials are transported to and from the site via existing roads and paths.