'Aquapuncture': Adaptation and Optimal Use of Inland Waterways and Their Waterfronts
Type:
Presented during:
WODCON XX: "The Art of Dredging" - 2013, Brussels, Belgium
Authors:
Waterman R, Brouwer JA
Abstract: Waterways were always a focal point for settlements & economic activities. They were used for everything from drinking water supply, beer production, fishing, transport of persons and goods, defence but also as open sewer and water level regulation. All the inland waterways combined formed a slow waterway system, going through all the city centres and lakes and connecting them in a direct way. This changed with the rise of the much faster railway system directly adjacent to the inner cities and later on the fast highway network around the cities. The waterway transport system became to a certain extent obsolete and the main function was taken over especially by the faster road system. The spatial relation between the waterway and the urban development became neglected.
Now we are once again fully aware of the significance of this unique relation between the waterways and the adjacent urban and rural habitats. Therefore we want to rediscover and revitalize the waterway network through “AQUAPUNCTURE”.
Keywords: Aquapuncture, Building with Nature.