
21/06/2025
in the historic polders of kruibeke the flemish
government is constructing the largest flood
control area to decrease the flood risk in the
scheldt estuary and to combine this with new
perspectives on integrated water management.
the visitor management plan defines the vision
and strategy for an optimal balance between the
conditions of a nature reserve and flood control
area in combination with sustainable recreation.
consultation and participation with stakeholders
and local organizations were crucial during the
design process. during meetings, working visits
and workshops and in a cross border cooperation
with similar projects in the netherlands and the uk,
we produced a development plan for sustainable
recreational infrastructure and facilities to
implement the concept of sustainable tourism.
stefan.scho ning.studio was responsible for the
design concept, based on the metaphor of the time
capsule. this time capsule contains elements of the
past, the present and the future. the concept of
the capsule was elaborated through the following
themes; safety, water, history, future and nature.
these themes form the basis for building the
typology for the design elements including a
watchtower, participation- and experience sites,
picnic areas and revaluation of heritage. thanks to
the project we turned the public perception about
the development from negative to positive.pics yves adams.