Quay Wall Renewal Binnendieze ’s-Hertogenbosch

In the historic city centre of ’s-Hertogenbosch, the last remaining ten-metre section of timber quay wall has been replaced. The existing structure, dating from around 1975, was in urgent need of renewal. Without intervention, there was a significant risk of the quay collapsing, with serious consequences for the waterway and surrounding buildings. This replacement has ensured water safety while preserving the character of the Binnendieze.

Ten metres of quay may sound straightforward, but in practice it proved to be a technically demanding project. The location—one of the narrowest parts of the Dieze—offered very limited working space. A temporary platform was required, and most materials had to be transported via the water. In addition, the project involved underwater works, with divers deployed for inspections and measurements. Adding to the complexity was a monumental walnut tree located directly beside the quay. The tree could not be removed, posing a significant challenge for the design team.

A clever solution was chosen: a reinforced concrete wall was installed in front of the existing sheet piling, anchored with grout anchors. The quay was then finished with brickwork to match the historic streetscape. Through careful engineering and a pragmatic approach, a safe, future-proof and aesthetically appropriate solution was achieved—with minimal impact on the surroundings, including the tree, which was left untouched.