We are seeing an increasing number of dike reinforcement projects featured on SitePodium, which makes sense as climate change continues to heighten the threat posed by water.
The winter of 2024 once again underscored the vital importance of robust dikes: despite record-breaking water levels, most people in at-risk areas stayed safe and dry.
In this case study, we explore a project between Lauwersmeerdijk and Vierhuizergat in the north of the Netherlands and speak with Hedwig and Meike from the Stakeholder Engagement Team.
Hedwig Dijkstra and Meike Doornbos play crucial roles in the project’s Stakeholder Engagement Team, serving as Senior Communications Advisor and Stakeholder Engagement Manager, respectively. They, along with their colleagues, are dedicated to ensuring a positive project experience.
Their approach goes beyond what is typically seen in other projects. For instance, they not only enthusiastically use SitePodium but also leverage various other channels, including a virtual visitor centre.
The most sustainable Dike Reinforcement in the Netherlands
The Groningen Lauwersmeerdijk, located between Lauwersoog and the Westpolder, no longer meets safety standards. Therefore, the dike is being reinforced by Combinatie Waddenkwartier, a collaboration between contractors Heijmans and GMB, commissioned by the local water authority Waterschap Noorderzijlvest.
This project is not just about safety but also focuses on nature, recreation, and traffic. In fact, the project aims to be ‘the most sustainable dike reinforcement in the Netherlands.’ The project began in April 2023 and is expected to be completed by 2027.
Challenges
In addition to the technical challenges of dike reinforcement, there are significant stakeholder engagement challenges for this project. Considerable attention is given to local residents, commuters, and the predominantly agricultural landowners in the area. Hedwig Dijkstra explains: “Maintaining a good relationship with the local community is essential. Our goal is to make everyone feel heard and seen.”
A unique challenge is the thousands of visitors who annually visit the area, whether they come to walk, cycle, enjoy nature, or travel to the Wadden Islands. Reaching this group, which sometimes visits only once a year, requires special effort. Meike Doornbos highlights the difficulty: “It takes creativity and effort to inform and involve these passers-by in the project. We are constantly seeking effective communication methods.
Unique Approach
The stakeholder engagement approach of Combinatie Waddenkwartier is undoubtedly unique. “We do everything we can to make the project accessible to anyone interested,” says Hedwig Dijkstra. In addition to using SitePodium to follow developments, the stakeholder engagement team offers an extra dimension with a virtual visitor centre. This allows people to take a digital tour of the project area from home and learn about the environment and the project.
Interaction with the local community is central to their efforts. “Our bond with the local community is strong. We ensure that no one around us can miss the project,” adds Meike. The project team ensures visibility and involvement both online and in the immediate vicinity of the project. Followers in the app are not only kept informed about the progress of the dike reinforcement but also learn about the harbour adjustments and nature enhancements.
Virtual Visitor Centre
“The virtual visitor centre offers a unique opportunity for people to really experience the dike reinforcement,” says Hedwig. With spectacular photos, visitors are guided through both the history and future of the dike.
Visit the virtual visitor centre (Dutch language)
Results of the Approach
“The community responds positively to the project,” says Meike. She continues: “People understand the importance of keeping their feet dry and are therefore engaged. However, not everyone realises how much more is involved.”
The Feedback Monitor on SitePodium shows that the stakeholder engagament team’s approach is effective: the average satisfaction of followers is 8.5 out of 10. Well done!
