Regional Analysis of the Netherlands - Waterways Forward

VerenigingRegioWaterRegional Analysis of the NetherlandsThe Waterways of the RandstadDriebergen-Rijsenburg, July 20101

A. CONTENTSA. Introduction 51. Waterways Forward 52. Introduction to Dutch partners 5- Vereniging Regio Water (VRW)- Dutch Recreational Waterways (SRN)3. Working area 63.1. Randstad area 63.2. Provinces 73.3. Large cities in the area 73.4. Water Boards 103.5. Recreational Boards 113.6. Green Heart area 123.7. Rhine-Schie Canal 133.8. Inner coastal route for yachts with fixed masts 144. Waterways in the Netherlands 145. Who uses the Dutch waterways? 165.1. Commercial freight traffic 165.2. Recreational shipping 175.3. Waterside recreation 185.4. In winter 186. Environment 197. Climate change 218. Best Practices 22B. Survey questions 24- Basic data- Obstacles and challenges relating to environment and climate change- Challenges and obstacles relating to own institutional and organisationalframework/governance- Experience in using European fundingC. Attachments 31- BRTN in figures- Freight transport on commercial shipping- WF waterways in Randstad- References3

The aim of this analysis is to gain insight into the impact on the development of a region adjacentto waterways or inland lakes which have more or less the same functions and developmentpotential as Regional Waterways.The analysis was performed by the Dutch Recreational Waterways and written by Ton Romeijn,Hylke Steensma and Manita E.H. Koop. The statistical information was collected by Manon vanMeer and the lay-out of the report was done by Hylke Steensma and Edmar Diebels.The following experts were interviewed: Manita E.H. Koop (Director, Vereniging Regio Water Stad Land) Nico van Lamsweerde (Director, Dutch Recreational Waterways) Ronald E. Waterman Joep de Roo (Eurodite)4

A. Introduction1. Waterways ForwardWaterways Forward (WF) is an international project focusing on regional inland waterways. Theaim is to advance social-economic development while at the same time enhancing the naturalenvironment and guaranteeing nautical safety. Good governance is essential for achieving thisaim. This involves partners from different countries learning from each other's experiences andexpertise, so they can develop and design policies jointly.2. Dutch Partners, an introductionThe Vereniging Regio Water (VRW) is analliance of water boards and municipalitiessituated on or near water in the southwest part ofthe province of Zuid-Holland West (see adjacentmap). One of the alliance's goals is to stimulatewater recreation in that region.Aim:to make the most of the economicpotential of the Rhine-Schie Canal andthe waterways directly connected to it,especially with regard to tourism andrecreation. This includes removal of anyhindrances, with special attention beingpaid to how water, city and countrysidework together.The Dutch Recreational Waterways (SRN) is a foundation set up by the central government,provinces and water sport organisations in order to carry out a joint 20-year project. Since 1995,the SRN has removed obstructions in the waterways and stimulated projects concerning operatinghours, temporary mooring places and the accessibility of historical city harbours.Aim: A countrywide recreational waterway network without obstructions by 2013.The main aim in the Policy Vision on Recreational Waterways in the Netherlands (BRTN 2008 –2013) is to ensure Dutch waters remain navigable, and to further develop them, so they becomeone single attractive, diverse but unified recreational waterway network.The basic recreational waterways network comprises around 4400 km of waterways, canals,navigable channels and rivers. It is navigable for boots up to 2.4 m high and with 1.1 m draught.This means it is possible for most of the motorboats in the Netherlands to navigate the basicwaterways network. Around 1500 km is available for fixed-mast yachts up to 30 m high. The basicrecreational waterways network is also used to a certain extent by commercial shipping. Thenetwork comprises around 1850 km of principal waterways managed by the Directorate-General forPublic Works and Water Management, provincial and municipal councils, water boards and privateorganisations.In addition to the recreational waterways network, there are many other waterways which can beused by smaller boats. Sometimes this water is separated from the basic network by dams or lowbridges. The Netherlands could probably find ways to connect the basic recreational network withthese other waterways and thus make the network even more attractive.Since 2007, the provinces have the authority and financial resources to implement a navigableroute network, as a result of the Investment Budget for Countryside (ILG). SRN provides activesupport for achieving the aim to create a basic recreational waterways network without obstructionsin the Netherlands.5

3. Working areaThe Netherlands has an abundance of water. Its network of waterways, lakes and pools is uniquein Europe and characterises the landscape. Commercial shipping and recreational vesselsincreasingly make use of this network of waterways. The BRTN 2008 – 2013 was drawn up with aview to maintaining and enhancing these waterways for recreational purposes. Canals that are nolonger suitable for commercial shipping should remain available for recreation purposes. Thereshould be no more damming up of canals; bridges and locks should remain in use; old canalsshould again be rendered navigable.The recreational network joins up with waterways in neighbouring countries. Canals, in particular,function as trans-border waterways, but the rivers Rhine and Maas also cross borders. Foreignvisitors can reach the Netherlands via the Wadden Sea and North Sea as well. For this group ofwater sports tourists, the 'fixed-mast route' is an important route.3.1. Randstad areaThe Dutch Randstad is an urban area consisting of a ring of urbanisation around a more rural area(the Green Heart) and the North Sea. The Randstad covers an area of around 2,500 km 2 (250,000hectares) and has some 7 million inhabitants, so it is the largest urban area in the Netherlands. Itincludes the four largest cities in the Netherlands (Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht and The Hague)plus the areas surrounding the cities. This is the busiest part of the Netherlands, forming themainstay of the Dutch economy. The Randstad also contains the largest port in Europe (Port ofRotterdam), used by commercial shipping (both sea-going and inland), and the two largest airports.The term „Randstad‟ refers to the ambition of the Randstad, a succession of conurbations, tofunction as a single metropolis.The leisure-boater can move around all thewaterways in the Randstad. The principalnetwork consists of waterways suitable for allcategories of boats as defined in the BRTN.These categories include the larger sailing andmotorboats. The waterways include rivers,canals and several lakes. A number of otherwaterways are suitable only for smallermotorboats, canoes and rowing boats, but theseare not included in the principal network. Thissecondary water recreation network has notbeen mapped out for the whole Randstad, as it isonly used by small recreational vessels. TheNorth Sea is used intensively by bothcommercial and recreational vessels.Most construction work relating to water recreation is on a small scale and consists mainly ofenhancing waterways to ensure sufficient breadth and depth and of removing obstacles like lowbridges. Through routes have to be created at various places; where possible, by means of openconnections or locks. If this is not possible, a transfer place will be needed. The most radicalmeasures involve digging new waterways and building marinas. The latter, however, have acommercial function, so building them and any associated functions can be left to market forces.All that needs to happen is that the construction of a marina is included in the land-use plan forthe area. Another matter of importance is the fresh water storage basins which are usuallyneeded for water management and are normally constructed by the water board involved.6

3.2. ProvincesThe Randstad extends over three provinces. The largest part of the Randstad lies in the provinceof Zuid-Holland. The province of Utrecht contains a small part of the Randstad. Of the province ofNoord-Holland, only the most southerly part belongs to this area.Shipping movements on important navigation routes in the Randstad per yearThe Schie (total) 30,000Oude Rijn 25,000Gouwe 17,000Green Heart 25,000Zuid-HollandThe province of Zuid-Holland abounds in water. This water and its landscape and historical citiesmeans there is a great deal to offer leisure boaters. They discover that Zuid-Holland is an attractiveand relatively small-scale waterway area with rivers, canals, lakes, peat meadows, peatland lakesand old ports. The fixed-mast route along the River Gouwe plus the Hollandse IJssel, the Oude Rijnand the Rhine-Schie Canal gives access to the various sailing areas in Zuid-Holland as well as tothe national basic recreational network. Recreational boating has grown considerably over the pastdecade and has become an important economic factor, as well as providing pleasure.The oldest and largest area of horticulture under glass in the world (and also the most innovative)can be found in the Randstad. Transport in this Westland area used to be via water. It is also acoastal area so the intention is to reinstate the old waterway structure in this area.Noord-HollandNoord-Holland offers peaceful, long-established canals running through meadows and reclaimedland. An important cultural and historic feature is the Amsterdam Defence Line. A characteristic ofthis province is its relationship with large areas of open water such as the Markermeer, IJsselmeer,Wadden Sea and North Sea. The city of Amsterdam is very important for water transport becauseof the river IJ and the fixed-mast route through the city centre. The Port of Amsterdam offers anattractive combination of cultural history, nightlife, cruise ships and places to live.Province of UtrechtUtrecht has a small area of waterways in the peat meadows, with age-old rivers and a number ofsmall and characteristic lakes. Commercial shipping, in particular, makes much use of theAmsterdam-Rhine Canal that forms a barrier between the western and eastern parts of theprovince. There are 100,000 commercial shipping transits every year on this canal. It is thus oneof the busiest waterways in Europe. The historic river Vecht is an appealing route for leisureboating and is also a safe alternative to the intensively used Amsterdam-Rhine Canal. In terms ofcultural heritage, the peat meadow areas with their peatland lakes and the age-old cities areinteresting places for the water tourist to visit.3.3. Large cities in the areaRotterdamRotterdam lies centrally in relation to its hinterland and this is partly why it has developed into thelargest port city in Europe in terms of goods handling and bulk transport. Rotterdam is also, by far,the most important container port in Europe.The Nieuwe Maas area with its old industrial ports is the most interesting navigation water inRotterdam and very important for commercial shipping that is headed for the east of theNetherlands. The Rhine-Schie Canal and the Hollandse IJssel are suitable for the water transportof goods to the north. Around Rotterdam there is a considerable amount of leisure boating.DelftIt is not permitted to sail motorised boats through the city-centre canals in Delft. However, this bandoes not include the commercial canal cruise boots and water taxis because they possess specialoperating permits. Delft has a visitor harbour where boats can moor for up to 3 x 24 hours. Thisvisitor harbour (see cover photo) is situated on the Zuid-Kolk, part of the Rhine-Schie Canal, and7

is open all year round. Apart from this visitor harbour, Delft has no mooring places for leisureboats, so it is not possible to moor at other places or along the Rhine-Schie Canal.The HagueJust as with other cities in the Netherlands, The Hague had many canals in the past. They wereused by shipping but also functioned as sewers. As early as 1350, The Hague was connected toDelft via the River Vliet. The Hague‟s canal ring was completed in 1619. In 1900, the Laakhavenwas built and became the sixth inland port in the Netherlands.In the 19th century, the first sewage system was built, and many canals were vaulted over or filledin. A significant problem in The Hague was that the canal water could not drain out into the sea.Although the Verversingskanaal („Replenishment Canal‟) was built to join up with the North Sea,the large canal called the Koninginnegracht was never extended through to the sea. Towards theend of the 20 th century, there were plans in various cities for restoring many old canals to theirformer glory. This was the Canal Plan. Since 2003, it has been possible to take a trip through thecanals of The Hague, while the Schie is now the most important access water for this city. Thefishing port of Scheveningen on the coast is gradually being converted into a marina surroundedby luxury residential complexes.GoudaThe municipality of Gouda aims to stimulate leisure boating in and to the city, a visit to thehistorical centre being one of the goals for tourism and recreation. The municipal council‟scomprehensive project programme „Cultural and Port District „2004-2014‟ is intended to reinforcethe social and economic function of the historical centre, the heritage buildings playing a role inthis. The project involves investigating how the city is used and appreciated by water tourists andwhich facilities are necessary to reinforce and extend this use.LeidenIn 2025, people will be able to experience the water in Leiden in many ways. The water will alsobe appealing, clean and safe for both leisure and residential functions. Various improvements inthe water system will mean the leisure capacity of the city will have increased even further by2030. In the area known as the Waard, level with the River Zijl, there is a green city boulevardwhere the river banks are accessible to everyone who wishes to enjoy the water. Also along theRhine and the Trekvliet, there is access to the water at various points. The removal of the dam inthe Maresingel, has made it possible to take a trip around the outer canals and, because of thegreen belt around the city, this is an especially attractive option. It is also possible to sail morequickly to the Oude Vest in the city centre from the Haarlemmertrekvaart (a wide canal). An extramarina has been built on the Rhine. As a result of these enhancements, Leiden can rightly callitself the water city of Zuid-Holland. In recent years, the advantages of waterways in the city havebeen rediscovered. Water is increasingly regarded as an element that can enrich thesurroundings. The economic potential of water is high; companies like to be located on the water‟sedge and dwellings in such areas have a higher value. In addition, water is probably the mostimportant reason for tourists to come to Leiden. The city has developed into one of the mostpopular cities for boating in the Netherlands while tourists also go there to shop, eat and fornightlife because of the special atmosphere created by the canals.However, there are also problems. Heavy rainfall causes flooding in certain parts of the city andthe water quality is not good everywhere. Improvements are required in relation to recreationalboating and the contribution the canals make to the quality of the city. As part of „WaterplanLeiden‟, the possibilities for re-opening the old, filled-in canals were investigated in 2008. Thereare no significant plans for flood management for the whole of Leiden. During the redevelopmentof North Leiden and the Waard district, it will be important to create more surface water in places.The Rijnland Water Board is investigating the flood management plan for the Merenwijk andStevenshof, another two districts in Leiden.HaarlemIn the River Spaarne, there are eleven new jetties for leisure craft. The Recreation Document forHaarlem had already referred to water recreation as the most important aspect of the city‟s leisurepolicy. The jetties can have various functions: as visitor moorings for recreational boating and ascanoe jetties or as mooring places for small sloops. In cold winters, ice skaters can use them too.Haarlem pays a great deal of attention to its water leisure facilities as the city hopes to attractmore tourists to the city as well as offering the local residents more leisure facilities. The visitor8

moorings offer in total around 80 extra berths. There are also nine landing places for canoeists.The jetties were financed by the municipality of Haarlem, the Dutch Recreational Waterways(SRN), the province of Noord-Holland and Recreatie Noord-Holland NV. The ANWB financed thesignage. Shipping in Haarlem is under the control of the shipping master who works from WaarderBridge. Boats sail in convey in Haarlem. In other words, ship movements are in one direction only.Privately-owned leisure craft are allowed to moor along the sides of the inner and outer canals ofHaarlem; a berthing permit is necessary.Amsterdam (southern part)The landscape to the south of Amsterdam consists mainly of low-lying polders, but also ofreclaimed peatland lakes. The river that appeals the most to the imagination is the Amstel; 31 kmlong, it flows into the centre of Amsterdam. Another important waterway through route from thesouth is the Ringvaart that begins in the Haarlemmermeer polder. The Ringvaart forms part of thefixed-mast route through the Netherlands. A great deal of leisure sailing is done aroundAmsterdam. From Amsterdam, it is possible to sail via IJmuiden into the North Sea and via theriver IJ and the Oranje Locks to the IJsselmeer.UtrechtDespite its relatively limited area of water, Utrecht has much to offer recreational boaters. Thequality of the city is greatly influenced by all the constructions and elements dating from its historicpast and by the landscape. Utrecht has canals, rivers and bulwarks, all of which stronglydetermine the structure of the city, thereby contributing to its quality.Many of the watercourses in Utrecht are historic, and the building profiles are interesting. Becauseof the mainly historic buildings, permanent mooring places would be undesirable, as they wouldform a wall along the banks. As a result, the water would not be accessible to those who wishedto enjoy the water from the banks. Furthermore, the permanent moorings of large ships causedamage to the banks that are of both historic and environmental worth. The general assumption isthat, from a spatial and nautical point of view, it would be undesirable to allow leisure craft to moornext to houses and houseboats without applying limits or rules of size.On the other hand, the historic significanceof the water depends for a large part on itsuse and navigability. Some form of leisureboating certainly contributes to thisenjoyment of the historic elements.9

3.4. Water BoardsThe changes in the Water Boards Act meant that the water boards were relieved of the extraupkeep costs (operations and maintenance) associated with leisure boating. The water boards‟nautical responsibilities are now generally confined in the Netherlands to providing accessibilityfor permitted shipping and controlling traffic. The boards are thus concerned with: berthing policy motor boat licences signage reinforcementFive water boards are active in the WF work area: Water Board for Amstel, Gooi and Vechto The AGV Water Board, in addition to looking after water quality, paysconsiderable attention to the natural environment and to recreation. Water Board De Stichtse Rijnlandeno At present there is no policy on waterways for the area. The idea is to adopt thenational policy once this has been developed. Water Board for Delflando The Delfland pursues a policy of regulating shipping in certain waters (the oneswhere municipal councils did not regulate shipping in the past; this applies mainlyto waters in Westland and Midden-Delfland). The water board deals in particularwith issuing motor boat licences. For certain waters, motor cruising is onlypermitted if a Delfland licence has been issued. Water Board for Rijnlando At present, no waterways policy is being pursued here. The idea is to adopt thenational policy once this has been developed. Water Board for Schieland and the Krimpenerwaardo At present, no waterways policy is being pursued. The idea is to adopt thenational policy once this has been developed.The water boards believe they can make an important contribution to the Water Plan aim – that ofmaking the Netherlands sustainable and able to deal with climate change. The boards alsosubscribe to the opinion that things should be centralised where necessary, but decentralisedwhere possible. The boards are well on their way to organising the regional water systemsaccording to the action points agreed on in various documents: Water Safety Policy, Water Policyfor the 21st century and Framework Agreement on Water.The water boards would like to draw attention to the following matters: Continuation of the water policy now being pursued and emphasis on implementation ofthat policy. Development of new policy for water safety (including safety strategy, funding, areasoutside the dikes). Development of new policies for fresh water supply (tackling water shortages, fresh waterdistribution, and dealing with salinisation) Improved spatial translation of the policies regarding flood management (more attention towater matters in Spatial Planning; proper usage of spatial reservation) Continuation and augmentation of joint activities (with other government bodies but alsowith private parties, in activities such as area development). Increased water consciousness and convincing people of the need/urgency to tackle floodmanagement planning.10

3.5. Recreational BoardsRecreational boards develop, manage and maintain many areas that attract day-trippers. Theyalso offer many walking, cycling and canoeing possibilities, whereby caring for the naturalenvironment and the landscape is an important element. In some cases – eg the Loosdrecht andVinkeveen lakes – the recreational boards also manage the waterways. Inspectors ensure thatsafe and pleasurable recreation is possible.Seven recreational boards are located in the WF working region: Recreational Board for Midden Delflando In 2006, Green Service Zuid-Holland developed a Water Sports Action Plan forthis area. The plan voices the wish (of those who participate in water sports) forMidden Delfland to become a water sports area and to link these developmentswith those in the Westland area. Recreational Board for Rottemereno The Recreational Board would like to create a broad green corridor fromRotterdam as far as the northern part of the Green Heart. To ensure theRottemeren area remains attractive as a recreation area, the current wishes ofthose seeking recreational activities in the area are taken into account whereverpossible. Recreational Board for Reeuwijkse Plasseno The nature and recreational board consists of representatives from a number ofmunicipalities and the Province of Zuid-Holland. The Recreational Boardmanages the recreation areas and is responsible for their maintenance. It is notpossible to navigate from any Reeuwijk lake to another or to the surroundingarea. Recreational Board for Stichtse Groenlandeno This area contains a variety of landscapes: extensive peat meadow areas in thewestern part of the province, meadowlands to the north of the city of Utrecht,agricultural land and the northern banks of the River Lek with the splendid floodplains. Walking, cycling, fishing and water sports are popular recreationalactivities in the area. Recreational Board for Vinkeveense Plasseno This area includes open lakes, mooring areas for houseboats, and places in thepeat meadow areas and routes through them. Recreational use concentrates onwater sports and day trips. Recreational Board for Loosdrechtse Plasseno This area includes all the waters of the Loosdrecht lakes, the mooring areas forhouseboats, marshes and reed beds and adjacent meadows. This lakeland areaalso includes several leisure areas, foot and cycle paths, in the westernmeadowlands – all owned, managed and maintained by the municipal council ofBreukelen.o The following services and facilities are offered by the board:• passage of 25,000 boats through various locks;• day visitors to De Strook and the islands;• issue of 600 high-speed permits (valid 1 year) and 2,600 one-day permits;• issue of 240 houseboat permits in the area;• some 200 mooring places on the islands and at the houseboat mooringso The Board manages the navigation routes in the lakes and connectingwaterways. It also manages four locks. The Board’s aim is to offer as wide achoice of recreational activities as possible. Green Area Amstellando Green Area Amstelland, located on the edge of Amsterdam, consists of an oldand culturally interesting landscape plus two large lakes with leisure opportunitieson and by the water. In these unique surroundings, you can cycle and walk toyour heart’s content, but also swim, sunbathe, dive, surf and play golf. It is notpossible to sail out of this area to other recreational waters.11

3.6. Green Heart areaThe Green Heart extends over the provinces of Utrecht, Zuid-Holland and Noord-Holland. It issometimes referred to as the „green lung‟ of the Randstad. Policy documents drawn up by theMinistries of Housing, Spatial Planning and the Environment (VROM) and Agriculture, Nature andFood Quality (LNV) define the Green Heart as having a protected status. No large-scale urbandevelopment takes place in the Green Heart; it contains mainly rural villages and the land use ispredominantly agricultural.This area is the largest national landscape area in the Netherlands. It is magnificent butvulnerable, as the ground is subsiding and the water is becoming saline. Farmers have to changetheir work methods to adapt to the water situation. People need houses there and the urbanenvironment is beginning to encroach on the area. The demand for recreational facilities andnature reserves is considerable in this area.In December 2006 for the first time, the three Green Heart provinces drew up a combinedImplementation programme for tackling this problem. This is the first such programme that aims tomake decisions that apply to the whole of the Green Heart.The Green Heart is just one of the twenty national landscapes for which the Agriculture Ministryhas commissioned the setting up of an implementation programme. The Implementationprogramme 2007-2013 for the Green Heart was set up by the Steering group for the Green Heart.It was planned in close consultation with the municipalities and the many civic society organisationsinvolved. Municipalities located in the Green Heart pursue a climate policy focused on sustainabilityand innovation: from sustainable energy production and household waste sorting to innovativeagriculture and geothermal heat pumps. All this is intended to achieve what is called the Blue-Green Delta plan. The topics touch on a variety of policies and thus require regional cooperationover the whole of the Green Heart area..12

3.8. Inner coastal route for yachts withfixed mastsThe Inner Coastal route for yachts with fixedmasts (see photo on this and next page) is aprincipal through-route from Vlissingen (provinceof Zeeland) to Delfzijl (province of Groningen)via Dordrecht and Amsterdam. It is suitable forvessels that need a vertical clearance of 30 m ormore. This route is partly in the WF work areaand is a safe alternative for the North Seacoastal route. In addition to its recreational valuein connecting the North Sea with the inlandwaterways, this route is of economic value as itoffers maintenance, repair and winter storagefacilities, plus a route for charter boats andcommercial shipping. The route is also importantfor exceptional forms of transport, whethercommercial or recreational.This fixed-mast route is important for leisure boating as itopens up the west of the Netherlands and connects thisarea to other parts of the country.4. Waterways in the NetherlandsSRN carried out a survey in 2005 to analyse the classification of recreational navigation routes inEurope. The ECMT classification was used. Created by PIANC, this classification was accepted bythe UN/ECE in a resolution from the Transport Working Group. The resolution states that theclassification shown in the ECMT resolution would be expanded to include the recreationalcategories RA, RB, RC and RD. Those countries involved were asked if they could present theSRN office with a “detailed list of inland waterways open for recreational navigation” using theseclasses. In its survey, SRN mapped out the recreational navigation routes of its European partners.Translation of main headings in photo on page 15:Policy vision on Recreational Waterways in the NL 2008Basic Recreational networkTables show clearances, dimensions and opening hours for bridges and locks14

5. Who uses the Dutch Waterways?The BRTN 2008 - 2013 focuses primarily on touring boats that make trips lasting one or more days.However, in the Netherlands there are other users of the touring network, such as commercialshipping, charter boats and classical ships. Other leisure users have small sailing boats, rowingboats, sloops, canoes, speedboats or houseboats, while surfers, swimmers, water-cyclists andanglers are to be found at the land-water interface. The manager of such an area can regulateaccess; the navigable routes, infrastructural constructions and laws (maximum speed etc) definewhich boat may access which waterway and route. Routes and networks of small navigable watersare for the „small watersports‟ and are just as important as the touring network for touring boats. Anexample would be the number of shipping transits through the Juliana lock in the Gouwe: in 2007,8000 commercial ships and 17,000 recreational boats passed through the lock.5.1. Commercial freight trafficAround 5800 commercial vessels sail in the Netherlands under the Dutch flag. In the southernpart of the Randstad, there are about 20,000 shipping transits (commercial), in the northern part(near Amsterdam) 45,000 transits and in the eastern part, 36,000 transits.There are both problems and opportunities in the relationship between commercial shipping andleisure boating. The problems include safety, right of way and narrow channels. The SRN tries toensure safe parallel routes for the leisure vessels and safe crossing points where commercialshipping makes considerable use of the navigation routes as, for example, in the Amsterdam-Rhine Canal and the Prinses Margriet Canal.However, there are opportunities for combining commercial shipping and leisure boating on thesmaller routes as well. By stimulating freight transport via water, new opportunities also becomeavailable for the leisure sector. Commercial shipping is not only a hindrance to touring boats; it isalso a fascinating aspect that is inextricably bound up with rivers and canals. Finally, most of theold canals were developed for the Spits and/or Kempenaar type of boat. Maintaining theinfrastructure of the navigation channels and operating the various engineered structures is ofimportance for the whole community. The intricate network of smaller waterways has becomeimportant for touring boats, as well as having potential for freight transport in smaller ships.16

Economic value of water sports (2008/2009 figures)6. The number of employees in the water sports sector is 30,0007. Turnover in the water sports sector is € 2.3 billion8. Water sports contribute €4.1 billion to the Dutch economyWater has much to offer a sustainable economy. Freight transport over water has a sustainablecharacter, and the transport of people offers a means of solving traffic congestion problems on theRandstad roads. To make the most of these opportunities whilst at the same time guaranteeingnautical safety, agreement among municipal councils, water boards, provinces, centralgovernment, industry and commerce and all other parties concerned is becoming even moreimportant.5.2. Recreational shippingIn 2005, the Ministry of Agriculture commissioned the research bureau Waterrecreatie Advies toinvestigate the numbers of leisure craft in the Netherlands. The figures indicated that theNetherlands is a true „water country‟. In total around 400,000 leisure craft are used regularly.Numbers ofleisurecraftIn the water in marinas, harbours and at water sports companies 162,000In het water in ditches, canals and at dwellings (also holiday houses) 36,000On land, used regularly 210,000On land, mostly sailboards, canoes, probably no longer used 100,000 +========TOTAL 500,000No. of leisure craftNo. of leisure craftIn marinas, harbours, at houses (including holidayWater sports companies homes), in ditches & canalsProvince of Zuid-Holland 32,000 9,000Province of Noord-Holland 32,000 7,500Province of Utrecht 7,000 3,00017

5.3. Waterside recreationBy waterside recreation, we mean leisure activities at the water‟s edge, including angling, smallboats, painting. Also amphibious recreation is included here. Relaxation and space – these are theimportant reasons for this choice.Day trippers often travel to water in order to escape from the urban crowds and to enjoy the naturalenvironment, the view and the large open spaces. A trip along the river banks – walking, on rollerskates or by bike, but also in the car, on the motorbike – is popular.Walking and cycling along waterways is afavourite occupation. Riverbanks and theold towpaths have much to offer. Accessto riverbanks in the densely populatedRandstad is, however, becoming anincreasing problem.5.4. In winterIn winter, too, the water is used a great deal. If the ditches, canals, lakes and lakes are frozen overin a severe winter, many people skate and sail on ice in the Netherlands.In the Netherlands, around 720 ice-skating clubs are affiliated to the Royal Dutch Ice-skatingSociety (KNSB). When the weather is right, they organise tours, competitions and prepare skatinglanes and routes. The IJsvereniging (ice club) in Groningen is one of the oldest skating clubs in theNetherlands; it was set up in 1862 and, in 1882, it founded the KNSB together with 9 other clubs.Ice sailing – a sport that uses specially built vessels for sailing on ice – started around 1840.However, it has existed much longer as a means of transporting people and goods. TheNetherlands was the birthplace of ice sailing, around 1600. Ice sledges were used as well. Islandssuch as Urk, Schokland, Wieringen and Marken were dependent on them for transport to and fromthe mainland during the mini Ice Age when the winters were often extremely harsh. Although, wedo not have skating weather every year, it would be a good idea to consider the ice-skating routeswhen designing bridges and jetties.18

6. EnvironmentNatural environmentWaterways provide through-routes, often forming part of the National Ecological Network (EHS).The fear, on the part of governments and nature conservation organisations, of allowing leisureactivities to take place in the countryside seems to have abated. Waterways form part of thecountryside so it is a challenge for the provinces, water boards, municipalities, wardens andconservation organisations to achieve suitable combinations of waterways and naturalenvironment in their area. They need to regulate the use of waterways by landscaping and bysizing them appropriately. Giving access to nature reserves increases the public‟s enthusiasm forthe countryside. The 162 „Natura 2000‟ plans involve looking very carefully at any developmentprojects to check whether they will be detrimental to biodiversity and protected species. At thesame time, leisure activities should be respected and should not require a permit.EnvironmentWater sports activities often take place in the natural environment. Landscape diversity, air andwater quality, plus noise levels are all aspects that determine the recreational attractiveness of aplace. In water, the „swimming quality‟ is an important aspect of water management whenconsidering mooring and recreational facilities. It is to the water sporters‟ own advantage not toinfluence their immediate surroundings negatively. The water sports sector is working hard toremove any threats to the sector by regarding environment laws as opportunities. Agreements andregulations at EU, national and local level focus on reducing emissions, on stimulating good watersport behaviour (the Wadden Contract, for example) and on zoning. From the water managementpoint of view, new navigation channels can be interesting for touring vessels. The new Water Act(in force since mid-2009) will mean a redistribution of tasks and responsibilities for the provinces,water boards, municipalities and operational services. Waterway management has been includedin this act. Aspects of the BRTN that meet the environmental quality demands will have to beintegrated into this new Water Act. Any plans made and carried out should take account of therecreational touring network. Appropriate policy for this issue is being developed. In December2008, water managers from both central government and water boards had already drawn up draftwater plans in time for public participation procedures (as laid down in the Framework Regulationon Water).Just as important as legislation is good communication with water sporters. To be able to enforcerules, it is important the sector accepts the need for rules.Collection of waste waterSince 1 January 2009, leisure vessels may notdischarge waste water into surface waters. Watersporters are encouraged to fit their leisure craft outwith waste-water tanks. These are standard fittingsin new boats, as a result of the European CEstandards. The SRN has helped to ensure there arearound 300 stations for collecting domestic wastewater and oil-polluted water on the quaysides.Because of the discharge ban that came into forcein 2009, the SRN investigated the presentlegislation on this subject in Europe, the UnitedStates and Canada. It turned out that because ofconsiderable differences in legislation, it is not clearto boaters going from one country to another whatthe rules are. This research looked at enforcementby the government and compliance with theregulations by the water supporters. The besttechnical and legal solutions were selected from theresearch results, leading to recommendations foruniform European legislation.19

Fuel supply: a network of properly fitted out quayside fuel stations is of considerable environmentalimportance. The Government is working on straightforward legislation.Emissions from enginesInternationally, standards have been agreed with the manufacturers of ship engines. The EU isaiming to achieve the same standards for the engines of ships as for those of company fleetvehicles.DredgingRemoval of polluted mud from the waterways is just as essential as preventing pollution. This issometimes postponed for cost reasons. Those waterways outside the principal network do notalways receive the highest priority. The dredging problem is even worse in harbours and accesschannels.CultureWaterways in the landscape, rivers, canals and small watercourses all form part of the culturalheritage of the Netherlands. They are the water links along which ports of call, commercial centresand cities arose. When on these waterways, people become aware of the man-made landscapearound them. The identity of the Netherlands is determined by its river landscapes, the constantland reclamation with dikes and connecting waterways, by the peat district and its canals, thehorticultural areas complete with their barge canals and the polders with their drainage pools.Canals and the industrial barge canals are part of the historical and industrial development. Thesewaterways have sometimes ceased to be functional over the years. Towns and villages haveturned their backs on the water. There are also many types of constructions along, in and over thewaterways or tree-lined outer canals: windmills, housing, factories, locks and weirs, harbours,bridges, lock- and bridgemasters‟ houses. These very diverse „furnishings‟ are attractive for thetouring boaters. This cultural heritage provides, in turn, reasons for revitalising waterways in thetowns and old ports. Waterways are given new chances because of the policies on cultural heritageand spatial development. At European and UNESCO level, too, more attention is being paid towaterways as an element of the heritage. SRN is working jointly with other European waterwaymanagement organisations in the VNE (´Voies Navigables d´Europe´) on behalf of the historicalwaterways..20

7. Climate changeClimate change is causing changes in temperature, rainfall and weather extremes all over theworld, with far-reaching consequences for agriculture and the natural environment. The effect ofclimate change on the marine environment is also a cause for concern, as any change in thewater temperature leads to fluctuations in fish stocks and these, in turn, affect the fishing industry.Research is being carried out with a view to adjusting fresh water management and safety.Because of rising sea levels, coastal areas are becoming increasingly saline which is why watermanagement and use will need to be adapted. Because space is at a premium in the Netherlands,there are investigations into the possibilities for using multifunctional water-retaining structures.These could combine flood control with other functions such as the development of naturereserves, residential areas, infrastructure, agriculture, aquaculture and saline agriculture.The coastal zone is changing fast because of, for example, the generation of sustainable energy,new requirements for coastal protection, the diminished use of coastal waters for traditionalfishing, increasing salinity, and the effects of climate change (e.g. rise in sea levels, risingtemperatures, inflow of fresh water and the frequency of storms). Making choices regarding futurelandscaping and land use will become a dilemma for society. Appropriate expertise is a crucialrequirement for this decision-making process.Our knowledge of the biological, geological and social processes required to utilise space andresources has to improve; the aim should be to stimulate the sustainable use of the sea and deltaareas and to make them resistant to any climate changes. Safety should play an important rolehere, as well as aspects such as sustainable utilisation of marine resources, sustainableagriculture and aquaculture, and the design and development of natural habitats along the coastand in the open sea. Climate change requires us to rethink the design of our delta: in which wayscan we continue to live and work in this delta area, even if the sea level rises several metres andthe river discharges even more water?There are 5 themes:1. The changing maritime system2. Ecologically optimised coastal protection3. Use of sea and coastal areas for new production4. Randstad resistant to climate change5. An integrated theme: „Governance‟. This also plays a role in the other themesThere are water management problems in the urbanised river deltas as well. This is mainly due toincreased building activity on the major (winter) river beds and in the polders (especially deepones), as well as a lack of open water. New housing project designs often include insufficientcapacity for dealing with excess rainwater.That is why the Netherlands has becomemore vulnerable in terms of flooding.Climate change will mean these risks onlyincrease. Will people still be able to live inthe Randstad? The increasing pressureon the rural areas and the growing risk offlooding are policy challenges for centralgovernment; the problems cannot simplybe solved at the drawing board. The allimportantquestion is whether Dutch policyis equipped to preserve the Randstad as aplace to live in the coming decades.21

8. Best PracticesBlue FlagThe Blue Flag is an exclusive eco-label awarded in 2009 to 3500 beaches and marinas in 34countries: South Africa, Morocco, New Zealand, Canada and countries in Europe and theCaribbean. The Blue Flag is an international environmental award, presented annually to beachesand marinas that have participated in the campaign and demonstrated both cleanliness and safety.The Blue Flag Programme aims to involve governments, business people and leisure-seekers inensuring clean and safe water, beautiful natural habitats and a healthy environment. Being allowedto fly a Blue Flag is an acknowledgement of the efforts to this end made by municipalitiesresponsible for beaches or by people who run marinas. As far as the tourist is concerned, the BlueFlag is known internationally as an acknowledgement; as a symbol of quality for good beaches andmarinas.Electric boatingThis topic refers to an activity outside the geographical work area, but it is certainly interesting forthe rest of the country, too. In 2010 the Electric Boating Foundation, province of Friesland (SEFF)was set up. The aim of the foundation is to stimulate electric and hybrid boating in the province.The SEFF's aim – to stimulate electric and hybrid boating in Friesland – is to: disturb the surroundings less, have consideration for the environment, reduce energy consumption, polluting emissions ....... and especially to stimulate a sustainable development of the economy in Friesland.SEFF aims to boost: information dissemination on recent developments and promotion of electric boating consciousness of energy-saving measures and the value of natural habitats the creation of special navigation routes for electrically driven boats installation of the necessary infrastructure needed for electric boating on a large-scale support of the yacht-building sector by providing technical information and know-how.SEFF will be working closely with organisations and institutions that have similar aims, thusbringing together expertise. The managing committee of SEFF contains representatives from theyachtbuilding and leisure sectors in Friesland, but also from nature conservation, environmentaland knowledge organisations. SEFF is planning to set up working groups very soon to allow allthose involved to tackle the necessary jobs. .Waste water collectionOn the website www.vuilwater.info (in Dutch), there is a map of the Netherlands showing all thestations where waste water collection is possible. The site also provides water sporters withanswers to their questions on legislation. Compliance with the ban on polluting surface water is aproblem.Saline agricultureWorldwide, there is an increasing shortage of fresh water and more and more soil is becomingsaline. Even in the Netherlands, the soil is becoming increasingly saline. This, however, createsopportunities for saline agriculture – the cultivation of salt-tolerant crops (halophytes) in salty soils.The world literature on halophytes is very extensive, yet the exploitation of this knowledge isminimal. Knowledge institutions in countless countries do research into salinisation, but there areno international research programmes or networks concentrating on halophytes, and the Europeanprogrammes do not give this research any priority. This should be seen as an opportunity for theNetherlands.A couple of modest experiments are, however, taking place. Researchers in the province ofZeeland and on the island of Texel are experimenting with saline agriculture. The main problemappears to be obtaining the necessary permits.22

Historical citiesMany historical city centres with a significant tourism function often do not have sufficient space forall the necessary functions. Living, working, leisure, mobility and the preservation of culturalheritage do not always go well together. The regeneration of old inner harbours has the effect ofenlarging the historical city centre. The cities of Utrecht (see photo below) and Delft (see coverphoto) are good examples of this.GovernanceCentral and/or provincial governments do not usually include quality enhancement anddevelopment of the smaller waterways in their policy-making. Water boards and municipalities areoften responsible for just a part of such waterways, so further development of these waters is not apriority for them. If municipalities were to approach this issue jointly, it would be possible to ensureboth maintenance and improvements take place. The Vereninging Regio Water (VRW, a regionalbody) is a good example of successful joint operations.Worst Practices it is unclear who is responsible for regional waterways failure to comply with ban on wastewater discharge in surface waters.23

B. Specified questionsBasic dataSize of population in your selectedareaWhat is the geographical area youranalyses cover?Number of waterways-relatedcompaniesNumber and size of marinas andinland harbours, and number ofvisitors per annumWhat is the annual volume(tonnage) of goods and materialstransported on your waterway?How many ships use yourwaterway per year?Number of tourism-relatedcompaniesSize of waterways-related tourismper year/GDP contribution atregional levelNumber of householdsNumber of dwellings immediatelyadjacent to your waterwaySize of natural areasRandstad: around 7 million peopleVRW area: around 2 million peopleRandstad around 2,500 square km (250,000 ha)VRW: around 1,400 square km (140,000 ha)278 waterways-related companies in RandstadVRW: around 150Randstad: 2 marinas: 650 berths in IJmuiden350 berths in Scheveningen132 harbours with 33,000 berths and 100,000 visitorsVRW: around 70 harbours with some 18,000 berths and 75,000visitors (excluding approx. 400.000 visitors for special events)Randstad: exceeding 100,000,000 tonnesRandstad 110,000 commercial vessels/year; 130,000 leisurevessels/yearRandstad: 4,500Randstad: 300,000 persons use the regional waterwaysRandstad: 3.2 millionVRW: Approx. 1.2 millionNot relevantRandstad: approx. 200 sq km (20,000 ha)Obstacles and challenges relating to environment and climate changeWhat are the main obstaclesand/or challenges you are facing inyour region/local area?Good cooperation between the relevant stakeholders; exchange ofknowledge and information about all necessary activities.Sense of urgency.Process management.Property ownership.Physical obstacles, e.g. waterways widths and depths; height underbridges; sluice/ship lock dimensions; loading and unloadingplatforms; sufficient berth and marina capacity, both with adequatefacilities;bridge and sluice/ship lock servicing;ecologically attractive shores;footpaths and bicycle tracks, towpaths; parking spaces; residentialareas; museums; heritage values along the waterways, everythingcombined with adequate rural and urban planning;Rising sea levelsIncreasing intensity of rain showers and stormsMore specific:Lakes: blue-green algae24

Has your local authority developedany strategies to tackle theseissues?The Loosdrecht Lakes suffer from a surplus of biomassa, having anorganic matter content of >50%. The municipality concerned(Wijdemeren) is wondering how it can tackle this problem, bearing inmind sustainability and climate change. The Province of Noord-Holland is aiming for a 20% reduction in CO 2 in 2020, whereasdischarged mud from dredging activities produces methane gas, andthat is 4x as damaging as CO 2.The lakes have also had a considerable problem with Cabomba, anexotic plant, over the last few decades. This plant is threateningwater sports and is a danger to swimmers.Strategy of the Central Government is based on: the National Spatial Strategy (2006) Spatial Planning Act (2008) OECD report concerning the Randstad (2007) Urgency Programme for the Randstad Randstad Vision 2040National Water PlanWater Act (2009), including Pollution of Surface Waters Act &European Water Framework DirectiveStrategy of the Province of Zuid-Holland:Policy document on Provincial Waterways and Shipping(2006) Provincial Structural Vision (2010) Policy Document on Leisure 2009Strategy of the Province of Noord-Holland: Provincial Water Plan 2010-2015Strategy of the municipalities: Structural Vision (2015) (municipalities are allowed todevelop their communal structural vision for their combinedterritory) Land-use plans (municipal functional spatial plans)Strategy of the Water Boards: A waterways-related strategy is now under considerationStrategy of the Recreation Boards (under the direction of theProvince of Zuid-Holland and the municipalities) Promotion of water-related tourism and recreation, includingoperation and maintenance.Strategy of the SRN and VRW: Establishment of cooperation between all the relevant publicand private stakeholders, aiming at identifying all relevantphysical obstacles, introducing various measures includingaqua puncture, and giving recommendations in order toachieve optimal sustainable use of the regional waterways:promoting regional socio-economic development, whilesafeguarding environmental values as well as nautical safety.More specific:Inland waters: blue-green algae: salinisation and flushing out.25

Do you have an environmentalstrategy?Municipality of Wijdemeren and the Water Board would like to agreebefore the end of 2010 on various measures (economic, ecologicaland those concerned with quality of life) that would be sensible forthis area: limited deepening, plant new reed beds, new islands, selloff banks that are crumbling or install sheet piling) The province ofNoord-Holland needs to agree to these measures.National Environment PlanNational Water PlanBenchmarking quality of berths and marinas and their facilities, e.g.including waste water stations.Safeguarding water quality. Introduction of Blue Flag and BlueRibbon;Do you have a spatial developmentplan that includes your waterways?Have you developed any strategiesor regional/local projects relatingto:- eco innovation- green economic development- waste management for yourregion including regionalwaterways and inland harboursand marinas?VRW is actively engaged in influencing behavioural patterns andinstalling adequate, uniform and sufficient collection stations forwastewater. In due course, storage tanks in the various recreationalvessels.VRW organises frequent conferences and information meetings forits members.The Netherlands has developed a strategy for mitigation andadaptation which is expressed in the various spatial policies.Yes.National Spatial StrategyRandstad Structural Vision 2040Provincial Structural VisionsDocument on Leisure, Province of Zuid-HollandDocument on Waterways, Province of Zuid-HollandStructural Visions and land use plans for the various regions andmunicipalities.It is essential for waterways to be emphasised in all spatialdevelopment plans as important structural elements, connecting thevarious areas, cities and landscapes. Waterways are needed forwater- related tourism and recreation, water sports and transport ofgoods and persons, and for environmentally friendly storage ofexcess water as well.This is also expressed in the Policy Vision on RecreationalWaterways in the Netherlands 2008 : de BRTNThe above-mentioned vision has not yet been clearly expressed inthe Structural Vision Document for the Randstad 2040. Therefore,the Ministry of Housing, Spatial Planning and the Environment hasasked the VRW to provide the Ministry – after close consultation –with a detailed vision, which can be added to the Structural Vision forthe Randstad 2040.Yes:Achieving a network of high-quality berthing, fitted with waste water(domestic and bilge) collection stations including facilities forpurification, quayside electricity, solar energy. There are additionalplans for expansion and implementation (see above); sustainablemarinas (Blue Flag)- Electric boating in and around Leiden/installation of networkcharging stations- Inform municipal councils; collaborate with water boards andstakeholdersAlso:Coastal reinforcement: utilising the natural environment to build in26

Have you been confronted withflooding or drought problems in thepast 5 years?Which measures have beendeveloped to tackle theseproblems?If so, have they been successfuland which lessons can be learnt?Which activities have youdeveloped to implement the WaterFramework Directive?Do you face any problemsintegrating environmentalobjectives and socio/economicdevelopment objectives for yourwaterline region? If so, whichones?In relation to all questions above.Which good practices have youidentified? Which didn't work?protection.Adequate pumping systems and drainage.Facilities for nature-friendly banks, water level management,flushing, creation of water storage areas.Not seriously in this area. Some drying out of peat dikes arounddrainage areas. There is a drought area around the eastern VechtLakes and is included in the „TOP List‟. Introduction of wetlands andrecreation has government priority.Pipeline connections for freshwater reservoirs outside the droughtregions: retention basins and emergency storage reservoirs. Anintegrated water management system for levels, storage, quality andsafety of water.Communication, information, participation.Combine functions – work with work.In the Netherlands and other countries, it is often necessary for adisaster to occur before the authorities are convinced of the need totake measures.Stakeholders are focusing on legislation and implementation, on thebasis of their Structural Visions for urban and rural planning.Yes. E.g. building outside the dikes; spatial occupation of waterreservoirs; seawards coastal development.Municipalities and water boards seem to have conflicting interests(e.g. clean water containing plants introduced with the aim ofhindering water sports).Furthermore, changes always worry and stir up local residents andcommercial interests.Coastal Harbour at Katwijk including seawards coastal expansionVisitor Harbour DelftCollection stations for waste water; Organisation of meetingsCut-off channel in River Schie.Development zone around the River Vliet through Rijswijk,Leidschendam-Voorburg and The Hague.Informative magazine WaterkantStart signposting area The Hague - Midden Delfland – Vlaardingen -WestlandCultural activitiesCollaboration with Province of Zuid-Holland to put importance ofRecreational Waterways higher on the agendaDraw up list of berthing places in Zuid-HollandEnsuring visitor quay in Voorburg is accepted by local residentsPublic involvement in cut-off channel OverschieWebsiteNavigation GuideLobby other government tiersStrategic alliance with Ministry of Housing, Spatial Planning and theEnvironmentPut interconnecting canoe routes for The Hague, Midden Delfland,Westland on the agendaThere has been steady progress so far, but sufficient time needs tobe given to these matters and considerable work is needed toinfluence public opinion, change behaviour patterns and arrangefunding.27

Combined flood management plansTerms used in map below:quality sufferingat risksalinationrisks increasingfresh water supply difficultsubsidencestorage basinsdischarge and storagechange to sea riversincrease in peak volumesYour institutional and organizational framework/governance-related challenges andobstaclesWho is responsible for managing your waterways?Is there a link between waterways management andland use planning for your regions adjacent to thesewaterways?Please include all details of your structure in atable/diagram!What is the involvement of your nationalgovernment/do you receive support from nationallevel?The National Government, Provinces,Municipalities, Water boards and private personsand organisationsThe land use planning along the waterfronts forroads, cycle and footpaths, loading and unloadingplatforms, berths, yachting harbours and facilities,residential areas, heritage values and sports shouldall have some relationship to each other.In response to our vision document, the Ministry ofHousing, Spatial Planning and the Environment(VROM) is willing to form a strategic alliance with28

C. AttachmentsBRTN in figuresWaterways in the Netherlands, navigable or notBasic recreational waterways networkEstimated number of kilometres of waterways with hindrancesNumber of fixed bridges along the basic networkNumber of open bridges along the basic networkNumber of locks in het basic networkNumber of places where high voltage cables hang lowThe permitted mast height for the fixed-mast routeDraught (boat size) for the fixed-mast routeImplemented BRTN 1995 tot 2007Total plan investmentContribution from SRNNumber of recreational vessels in the water and on land10,000 km4400 km1794 km10051107258238 places30 m2.10 m232 projects€705 million.€53 million.400,000Freight transport, commercial shippingCommercial shipping transports more than 100 million tonnes of goods in the WF work area.Attachment on WF waterways, RandstadWaterwayno.name km/length commercialshippingrecreationalcraft102 Nieuwe Maas, Nieuwe Waterweg 46 x x103 Lek 40 x x201 Rhjne-Schie Canal 80 x x202 Ringvaart Haarlemmermeer 30 x x(west)203 Haarlemmertrekvaart 15 x204 Oegstgeesterkanaal 8 x x205 Korte Vlietkanaal 10 x x206 Oude Rijn 52 x x209 Schiedamse Schie 6 x x210 Schiekanaal 27 x x211 Hollandse IJssel 19 x x212 Gouwe 36 x x215 Wijde Aa 9 x216 Leidsche Vaart 6 x217 Drecht 7 x218 Ringvaart Haarlemmermeer 19 x x(north)220 Aarkanaal 39 x x221 Weespertrekvaart 9 x x222 Angstel-Gein Oude waver 23 x223 Kromme Mijdrecht 19 x x224 Heinoomsvaart, Geer Grote 11 xHeijcop225 Amsterdam – Rhine Canal 45 x *225e Lekkanaal 4 x x226 Merwedekanaal / Vaartse Rijn 16 x x226a Hollandsche IJssel 32 x x227 Vecht 42 x x227a Hilversums Kanaal 8 x x227d+e Muider-, en Naardertrekvaart 11 x227 g ‟s Gravelandsevaart 5 xTotaal 29 waterways 674 km 21 28*Leisure boating on the Amsterdam-Rhine Canal is not recommended31

ReferencesFifth Policy Document on Physical Planning – Ministry of Housing, Spatial Planning and theEnvironment (VROM)Shipping information – Directorate-General for Public Works & Water ManagementPolicy Document on Provincial Waterways & Shipping – Province of Zuid-HollandProvincial Water Plan 2010 - 2015 – Province of Zuid-HollandBRTN - 2008 – Dutch Recreational Waterways (SRN)National Spatial StrategyGovernment Structural Vision for the Randstad 2040Provincial Structural Vision (2010)Provincial Policy Document on LeisureProvincial Policy Document on WaterwaysNational Water Plan.Data – Randstad AssociationSurvey of numbers of recreational vessels in the Netherlands – Waterrecreatie Adviesdata – HISWAdata – Zuid-Hollands Bureau voor Toerismedata – Statistics Netherlands (CBS)PhotographsDutch Recreational Waterways (SRN) and Vereniging Regio Water (VRW)32