Delta Programme for Spatial Adaptation (DPRA)
The Delta Programme for Spatial Adaptation (DPRA) is intended to reduce waterlogging, drought, heat stress, and flood impacts. The ultimate goal is for the Netherlands to be climate proof and water resilient by 2050. Municipalities, district water boards, provinces and the national government are collaborating under this programme on the basis of seven ambitions. These are explained below. In addition, information is provided on the developments within the Delta Programme for Spatial Adaptation and the organisation of the programme.
Incentive Scheme
Up to 2023, local and regional governments could apply for grants under the Delta Programme for Spatial Adaptation Incentive Scheme (in Dutch). This scheme has now been abolished. The Delta Programme for Spatial Adaptation is working on proposals for the structural funding of climate adaptation measures.
Organisation of the Delta Programme for Spatial Adaptation
Under the Delta Programme for Spatial Adaptation, municipalities, district water boards, provinces, and the national government are collectively working on measures to ensure that the Netherlands will be water resilient and climate proof by 2050. The efforts are being expended in 45 working regions. The working regions are managed by CEOs and guided by the Spatial Adaptation Steering Group.
Delta Plan setting out seven ambitions
The goal and the seven ambitions of the Delta Programme for Spatial Adaptation are outlined in the Delta Plan for Spatial Adaptation. This Plan was drawn up in 2018. The governments are working on the seven ambitions in a cyclic process, viz., the results and plans relating to the ambitions are assessed and adjusted on a regular basis. The next Delta Programme for Spatial Adaptation cycle will start in 2024. Click on the link below for details on the insights to be considered in the next cycle.
Delta Decision
The Delta Decision on Spatial Adaptation sets out national policy for the planning of water-resilient and climate-proof areas. Particular attention is being focused on vital and vulnerable functions, as flooding or extreme weather may lead to the failure of essential facilities. The Delta Decision is reviewed – reassessed and adjusted – every six years. The implementation of each Delta Decision is outlined in the corresponding Delta Plan.
Monitoring and evaluation of the Delta Programme for Spatial Adaptation
The agreements set down in the Delta Programme for Spatial Adaptation are monitored and evaluated annually by the national government. The results are published – in the form of a progress report – in the Delta Programme, which the Delta Programme Commissioner presents to the House of Representatives every year at the State Opening of Parliament. The annual progress report may comprise proposals for policy adjustments, for example, based on new developments or obstacles.
