The Crown Jewel of the Delta Works
In the Delta Act of 1958, it was decided that the Oosterschelde should be completely closed off. With this idea in mind, the builders set to work.
Zeeuws archief
First, they constructed three islands. This closed off 5 kilometers of the 9-kilometer-wide inlet.
They also drop concrete blocks into the remaining channels. The construction is progressing well.
Protest: "Open the Oosterschelde"
However, people are not pleased. If the Oosterschelde is closed off, much of the saltwater will turn into freshwater. This change will lead to the disappearance of many animal and plant species. It will also negatively impact fisheries, which will no longer be able to catch mussels and oysters.
Ultimately, a compromise is reached. Scientists design something entirely new: a permeable barrier.
On a construction island, everything needed for the build is in place: a power plant, a concrete factory, an asphalt plant, work harbours, and roads.
Work continues day and night on the enormous pillars, which become as large as cathedrals.
Official Opening
In 1986, Queen Beatrix finally inaugurates this unique structure, or more precisely, she closes the sluice gates in the barrier. As the plates are lowered into place, she declares, "The Delta Works are completed. Zeeland is safe."
