Maasvlakte 2: toplocation on the North Sea
Maasvlakte 2: Rotterdam is Europe’s most important port. More and more goods are shipped through Rotterdam, and a growing number of companies want to set up business here. However, the existing port and industrial area is quickly running out of space. It is expected that around 2012 - 2014 there will no longer be any large sites left. Expansion is essential for the port to continue to meet the rising demand in future and to maintain its leading role. If the port fails to grow, there is a good chance that shipping companies will pass Rotterdam by in the future. That is why the construction of Maasvlakte 2 is necessary. Construction will start in 2008 so that the first containers can be processed in 2013.
Maasvlakte 2 will be a direct extension of the existing Maasvlakte and will have access to all its connections with the European hinterland. Maasvlakte 2 will create a new toplocation in the heart of the European market, with 1,000 hectares of space for deepsea related container transshipment, distribution and chemical industry. These sectors have a great interest in the industrial sites on the deep waterways of Maasvlakte 2. Nowhere else in Europe will the largest ships in the world be able to moor 24 hours a day.
Naturally, the future of the port depends not only on its position on the market. The quality of life and concern for the environment are just as important as strengthening Rotterdam’s position as a mainport. Expanding the port and improving quality of life go hand in hand. This dual objective has been anchored in the Rotterdam Mainport Development Project (PMR) from day one. PMR consists of three sub-projects, including Maasvlakte 2, improvement to the Existing Rotterdam Area (BRG) and the construction of a 750-hectare recreation area and sites of natural interest. Furthermore, the nature that is lost as a result of the construction of Maasvlakte 2 will be extensively compensated with the creation of a sea bed protection area reservation (formerly sea reserve) and the enlargement of the dune area.
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