Dredging work in the Broekwegwetering will start at the end of 2025
The Hoogheemraadschap van Rijnland will start dredging the Broekwegwetering in Zoetermeer at the end of 2025. In the Broekwegwetering, there is a layer of sludge on the bottom that contains many nutrients. In water with many nutrients, blue-green algae can grow faster. By removing the sludge, we make it more difficult for blue-green algae to grow in the Broekwegwetering and the Zoetermeerse Plas. The dredging also allows the water to flow better.
Planning and location
The work will probably start at the end of 2025. At the moment, the Rijnland Water Authority is looking for a suitable contractor. For example, we ask contractors to come up with a plan on how they can carry out the work sustainably and with as little inconvenience to the environment as possible. After the summer, Rijnland will send a letter to residents with more information about the planning and what you will notice from the dredging.
The area to be dredged is approximately 12 hectares in size and is located between the De Leyens pumping station and the beginning of the Zoetermeerse Plas.
Supervision of dredging
Dredging is one of the activities that the Hoogheemraadschap van Rijnland carries out very often. The contractor is not allowed to dredge right along the edge and only remove the sludge, not the solid bottom underneath. We also make a preliminary survey of the banks and structures along the Broekwegwetering in images and we ensure that the contractor carries out the work properly.
Why dredging in the Broekwegwetering?
Dredging is a standard part of maintaining a stretch of water. Over time, waterways and ditches naturally become shallower due to the sludge that accumulates on the bottom. Dredging ensures that the water remains deep enough and that the water can flow through properly. This is important, for example, if a large amount of water needs to be drained quickly during a heavy rain shower to prevent flooding.
Dredging is also taking place in the Broekwegwetering for a second reason, namely to improve the water quality. The water quality in Zoetermeer and the Zoetermeerse Plas is being improved by taking measures at various locations in the city. This project is called Ons Blauwe Goud and is a collaboration between Hoogheemraadschap van Rijnland and the municipality of Zoetermeer. Dredging is one of the measures. By removing the nutrient-rich sludge from the bottom, we make it more difficult for blue-green algae to grow in the Broekwegwetering and the Zoetermeerse Plas.
More information and updates can be found on this page: Dredging Broekwegwetering - Rijnland Water Board
