New underground peak water storage capable of collecting 273,000 litres of water
A wide range of measures are being taken to better protect the municipality of Zundert against the impact of climate change. For example, an underground peak water storage system is being constructed in between Nassauplein square and Bredaseweg road, co-funded with a grant from the national Incentive Scheme. This system is intended to reduce local waterlogging in the event of future extremely severe downpours.
What was the reason for this project?
The municipality planned to re-design and green Nassauplein square. Furthermore, the local water collection capacity needed to be expanded on account of the dry and wet periods of recent years. This provided the municipality with the opportunity of “creating work with work” and construct an underground peak water storage system as part of the new design.
Peak water storage system
The new peak water storage facility underneath Nassauplein square has a capacity of no less than 273,000 litres of water. Furthermore, it will be connected to a system comprising two other underground peak water storage facilities in Zundert. By constructing this entire system, the municipality is preventing flooding of its streets during severe downpours. Another advantage is that this system will supplement the groundwater in the region. In addition, it will reduce the volume of polluted sewer overflow water ending up in open water.
Residents are disconnecting downspouts
In addition to constructing peak water storage facilities, the municipality is encouraging residents to disconnect their downspouts from the sewer system. Every household can apply for a free Brickey: a special disconnection brick to be used for residents’ own gardens. The lower part of the downspout is cut off and replaced by the Brickey. Thus, rainwater will be retained in the garden, rather than flowing directly into the sewer system. Residents can apply for a Brickey via the municipal website.
How has the project been funded?
This project has been funded using a €27,548 grant from the Climate Adaptation Incentive Scheme. The project budget totalled €225,000.
Lessons to be learned from this project
Municipal calculations for the placement of the cellar for the peak water storage in June 2024 were based on the MHGL (Mean Highest Groundwater Level) over the past five years. However, a higher groundwater level would have made a better point of departure, as groundwater levels in 2024 were higher than in previous years as a result of the wet weather. Consequently, groundwater needed to be pumped up and discharged via tube well drainage. The construction of the tube well drainage system delayed the placement of the cellar.
Contact person
Hans Antens
Gemeente Zundert
H.antens@zundert.nl