Earlier this year, The Municipality of The Hague presented the Scheveningen Port Vision 2025-2050. The vision outlines the development of Scheveningen Harbor as an anchor point for the blue economy: a place where entrepreneurship, innovation, recreation, and nature converge. The port is clearly positioned as a future-proof working port. The fishing sector will retain its important role, innovation in maritime activities will be given space, and recreation and sports will remain an integral part of the port. The vision was developed in close collaboration with all parties in the port: from shipowners and businesses to residents and water sports enthusiasts.
Alderwoman Saskia Bruines (Economic Development): “The Port Vision provides direction for a future-proof port where economic growth, innovation, and sustainability go hand in hand. We cherish Scheveningen’s rich cultural heritage and capitalize on the opportunities of the blue economy, with respect for nature and quality of life. This vision is the result of intensive collaboration with all parties in the port. Without their time and commitment, this would not have been possible. With this document, we are laying a solid foundation for a port that is ready for the future, without breaking with its past.”
A port in balance
Scheveningen Harbor has been a working harbor for centuries and has developed over time into a diverse area where fishing, maritime activity, innovation, and water sports converge. The economic side of the port is of great importance to The Hague, especially given the city’s anticipated growth. With its Harbor Vision, the municipality is therefore explicitly focusing on the port’s economic and innovative character, with concrete ambitions for more sustainable fishing and food production from the North Sea, maritime and offshore innovation, and Scheveningen as a water sports hotspot. Furthermore, attention is paid to the challenges of our time, such as safety at sea and in the harbor, the energy transition, and rising sea levels. Businesses and startups in these areas are already finding their way to Scheveningen, thanks in part to its unique location directly on the sea.
The port’s profile is being strengthened in every part of the port. The first port is home to a cluster of fishing businesses. “Seafood Central Holland” is being developed there to bring together maritime education, businesses, and port visitors. The second port, where the marina is already located, focuses on recreation, water sports, and small-scale maritime businesses. The third port focuses primarily on innovative companies and startups. No new housing will be built in the port.
Collaboration as a foundation
These clear choices provide the port parties with greater certainty and a clear course for the future. “We see the Port Vision 2025-2050 as an important step in making Scheveningen Harbor future-proof,” says Arnout Langerak, director of Cornelis Vrolijk shipping company. “Our company was founded in Scheveningen in 1880, and maintaining the fishing industry in Scheveningen Harbor is crucial for our continuity and for future generations of fishermen.”
Coen de Jong, of the Havenkwartier Residents’ Association: “For us, the most important thing is that the Scheveningen harbor remains a true harbor with space for maritime and port-related activities. We will continue to consult with each other to implement the Harbor Vision as effectively as possible.”
The development and implementation of the vision will continue to require strong, integrated collaboration and a strong approach. Therefore, a new collaboration structure has been agreed upon, with a single point of contact from the municipality. Strategic consultations will be held involving all relevant port stakeholders and the municipality.
Text & Images: Gemeente Den Haag, Translation: The Hague Online
View the entire Port Vision here (in Dutch)
