‘Resilient Rotterdam’ & Water Square

Rotterdam "has become a role model for other cities across the world looking to be water-resilient because of its 360-approach, which involves the city, its people, businesses, and the environment. The aim is to ensure that everyone in the city is prepared and can respond effectively when floods occur. The approach includes flood protection measures, improved infrastructure, the construction of water-retention basins, and green roofs. Located below sea level, Rotterdam has always been vulnerable to flooding, and the city has experienced numerous floods and storm surges. However, it took a catastrophic flood in 1953, in which over 1,800 people died, for Holland to take a radical approach to water management. The country decided to build an innovative flood defense system, the Delta Works, which made Holland one of the most flood-resilient countries in the world . . . Rotterdam's water resilience programme includes several innovative solutions that are transforming the city's relationship with water." For example, the city constructed "Water Square, a large urban plaza designed to hold 1,700 m3, which is collected from the square and surrounding streets during heavy rainfall. The Water Square significantly decreases the likelihood of flooding in the city center, while also improving the urban environment and offering a new space for community activities."