Van Oord implements natural solution for river bank reinforcement

The Brabantse Delta water board has commissioned Paans Van Oord, a subsidiary of Van Oord, to restore the bank along the Kerkvaart River in Waspik.

The bank along the Kerkvaart river, a tributary of the Oude Maasje river, is in need of major maintenance. To protect the hinterland from flooding, the bank must be reinforced and stabilised.

Paans Van Oord uses fully biobased fascine mattresses for this, which are weighted down with quarry stone. Fascine mattresses are mats of braided willow with a filter cloth, which prevent the soil from washing away, thus protecting it against erosion. A jute cloth, a natural and sustainable alternative to the usual geotextile cloth, will be used for this project.

Van Oord is collaborating with Van Aalsburg, a partner specialising in sustainable willow products. Based on a shared sustainability ambition, these partners have joined forces to research and invest in the use of biobased materials as part of ‘Building with Nature’.

The use of the biobased fascine mattresses in this project is an important step for both parties in the further development and applicability of the product. Work will start in mid-August and be completed by the end of September.