Nieuwe Driemanspolder redevelopment provides peak water storage
The Nieuwe Driemanspolder, a former agricultural area between the cities of Zoetermeer, The Hague Leidschenveen, and Leidschendam-Voorburg, has been redeveloped into a peak water storage area combined with nature and recreational functions.
The Midden-Holland region required additional capacity to store excess water during periods of heavy rainfall. Extreme precipitation can cause water levels in ditches and canals to rise rapidly, increasing pressure on the regional water system and raising the risk of flooding. The peak water storage area in the Nieuwe Driemanspolder helps reduce these risks and strengthens water management across the Rijnland region. By temporarily storing large volumes of water during extreme weather events, the area helps prevent flooding in surrounding communities.
The redevelopment resulted in a 300-hectare area, including 144 hectares of water primarily designed for peak water storage. In addition, space was created for nature and recreation. Due to intensive agricultural use, biodiversity in the Nieuwe Driemanspolder had been limited. The redevelopment improved the ecological quality of the area and created a more diverse landscape that supports a wide range of plant and animal species. While the area became less suitable as a breeding habitat for meadow birds, its value as a foraging area increased. Protected species that were already present in the area also retained suitable habitat.
Since the completion of the redevelopment in 2020, visitors have been able to enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including cycling, hiking, horseback riding, rowing, birdwatching and camping. The newly constructed paths connect to existing routes in the surrounding area and form part of a wider recreational network.
The images below show the area in three different situations: a dry period, a normal situation, and a situation in which the peak water storage is in use.
Lessons learned from the project
The Nieuwe Driemanspolder project has generated new insights for the Rijnland district water control board regarding environmental management. Local residents have been involved in the planning process right from the start. The efforts expended to this end have established a relationship with the immediate surroundings, featuring open and direct communication.
Contact person
Esther Verdoes-Verloop
Hoogheemraadschap van Rijland
071 306 3394
Esther.Verdoes-Verloop@rijnland.net