Building outside the dykes

The risk of flooding is increasing with the changes in climate and would seriously affect the CityPorts area, as it lies outside the dykes and one third of it is water. This has prompted plans for unusual forms of housing on and above the water.

The CityPorts area has seen higher peaks in water levels because of the rising sea level (60cm in 100 years) and more rain falling in shorter periods.

There are several possible solutions to the problem:

• raising areas;
• building higher quays;
• diverting parts of the (primary) dykes;
• floating dwellings in dock basins;
• making buildings waterproof.

The investment required could be offset by the reduction in flood damage. It's all about obtaining long-term results and providing innovative solutions.