Once a dumping ground, now a developing beauty. That’s the story of Schouwbroekerplas. This Haarlem gem is ready to charm you with its transformation.
Schouwbroekerplas, also known as “De Put van Vink”, has a past. In the 1970s, it served as a dumping and storage site for Haarlem. The Schouwbroekerplas formed between 1959 and 1962. Sand was extracted to elevate the Schalkwijk district. The municipality purchased land from the Vink brothers. Locals then called it “de Put van Vink”.
For three decades, the Schouwbroekerplas became a repository. Coarse waste, paving material, compost, and polluted soil were dumped here. Controversy surrounded the closure of “de Put van Vink.” The municipality was accused of dumping polluted soil and dangerous waste for years without provincial permission. Also, supply, storage, and disposal were poorly managed. The nature, origin, and quantity of the materials were unknown. Today, Afvalzorg monitors the area for pollution.
But times are changing for Schouwbroekerplas. “Schalks aan de Plas” aims to transform it. The goal is to create a meeting place. It should cater to current and future needs for safe encounters, recreation, and nature.
Imagine a floating catering pavilion. Picture terraces and jetties enhancing the Schouwbroekerplas. Walkers, cyclists, water sports enthusiasts, and those seeking peace will find a new place here. This place is developed sustainably.
The plan aims to preserve and strengthen the area’s current structure. Green and spatial structures are disturbed as little as possible. Water and the environment can be used without losing natural value. Facilities will be located near the bridge in the water. Access and parking will use existing routes. This preserves sightlines and minimizes disruption.
There are even plans for a higher bridge. This would make the Schouwbroekerplas accessible from the Spaarne River. The “Put van Vink” is not accessible to small sailboats and sloops because the bridge is too low. A higher bridge would change this.
Imagine enjoying the expansive view from a terrace. Residents of Schalkwijk, Haarlem, and Heemstede can gather here. Watersports enthusiasts, scouting groups, and passers-by can moor their boats at the floating jetties. Above all, it’s a meeting place within walking distance for Schalkwijk residents.
The Schouwbroekerplas is becoming a Haarlem pearl. Thanks to Stichting Leven op Water and the municipality, the Schouwbroekerplas is transforming. They are creating a beautiful place for everyone.
As you stand here at Schouwbroekerplas, remember its past. Envision its future. It is a place reborn. It offers recreation, nature, and community.