Why are we working on Hoornsedijk and the Meerweg?
A safe flood defence for now and the future. Why is it necessary to reinforce the Hoornsedijk and the Meerweg, and what does this mean for flood protection?
The Hoornsedijk and the Meerweg protect Groningen-Zuid and the surrounding areas from high water. To keep these flood defences safe, it is important to perform maintenance and reinforcement on time.
Making the Hoornsedijk and the Meerweg stronger and future-proof
Several weak spots were identified during an inspection of the Hoornsedijk. These weak spots must be reinforced to meet water safety standards. In addition, beavers live on both sides of the Hoornsedijk. Beavers like to dig in dykes, causing damage. This digging damage increases the risk of dyke breaches.
On several occasions, digging damage has been observed on Meerweg, south of lake Paterswoldsemeer. The damage has been repaired with emergency repairs. The water authority wants to improve flood protection and therefore plans to install beaver mesh in the flood embankment to prevent further digging damage. At the same time, a wildlife fence is installed at Meerweg to prevent otters and other protected species from being killed while crossing the road.