Kingdom of the Netherlands and Kingdom of Belgium — 2017 COLONIES OF BENEVOLENCE Management Plan

Kingdom of the Netherlands and Kingdom of Belgium — 2017 Management Plan Colonies of Benevolence

WORLD HERITAGE NOMINATION Colonies of Benevolence

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Colophon

title Management Plan Colonies of Benevolence

principal Steering group Colonies of Benevolence, on its behalf Anne-Marie van den Bos, programme manager province of Drenthe

ref./project number P1506

date 28 October 2016

description Management Plan to comply with the formal requirement of UNESCO as part of the nomination file of the Colonies of Benevolence. The Management Plan is an independent component of the nomination file (section 5 e). The plan consists of one main document on an overarching level serial transnational World Heritage site. For all the contiguous or adjacent Colonies, it contains an individual area section, in which specific matters are addressed.

contact Site holder the Netherlands Wendy Schutte, province of Drenthe Site holder Flanders Philippe De Backer, Vzw Kempens Landschap (Landscape organisation of the Kempen region) Colony I Bernard Stikfort, municipality of Westerveld Colony II Bernard Stikfort, municipality of Westerveld and Monique Annotee, municipality of Weststellingwerf Colony III Marja van den Broek, municipality of Steenwijkerland Colony IV Huib Noltes, municipalities of Ommen/Hardenberg Colony V Kathleen De Clercq, Vzw Kempens Landschap Colony VI Johan Panman, municipality of Noordenveld Colony VII Kathleen De Clercq, Vzw Kempens Landschap

advisors Henk van Kessel (NC Advies) Brendan McCarthy (LandKracht) Erik Opdam (NC Advies) 3

photography James van Leuven (J.L.) Siebe Swart (S.S.) Ludo Verhoeven (L.V.) Dirk Broeckx (D.B.)

design Joke Gossé

print Drukkerij Van Gorcum, Assen

Disclaimer

We have endeavoured to collect the visual material in this document with the utmost care and to indicate the sources. However, if you nevertheless consider certain images to have been used unlawfully, please get in touch with the contact address provided in Chapter 8a of the nomination file. Contents Summary 10 4 organisation colonies of benevolence 68 4.1 Administrative direction and frameworks 72 PART ONE: MAIN DOCUMENT 4.2 Site holder 73 4.3 Organisation at programme level 73 introduction 20 4.3.1 Chairmanship 74 4.3.2 Focal points Cultural Heritage Agency 1 outstanding universal value of the Netherlands (RCE) and Flanders colonies of benevolence 24 Heritage Agency (AOE) 74 1.1 Qualitative description 24 4.3.3 Implementing organisation 1.1.1 A significant and large-scale at programme level 74 social experiment 24 4.4 Organisation per Colony of Benevolence 75 1.1.2 New cultural landscapes 24 4.4.1 Administrative direction and frameworks 75 1.1.3 Poverty reduction through disciplining 25 4.4.2 Organisational structure at Colony of 1.1.4 Precursor: social and agricultural 25 Benevolence level 76 1.1.5 Landscapes of Memory 28 4.5 Involvement of stakeholders and 1.2 Substantiation of the OUV 28 local support 77 1.3 Integrity and authenticity 30 4.5.1 Involvement of stakeholders 1.3.1 Integrity 30 on an overall level 77 1.3.2 Authenticity 30 4.6 Advisory Committee for Science, 1.3.3 Attributes 31 Education and Quality 77 1.4 Starting points of the Management Plan 34 4.7 Spatial and landscape quality control 78 1.5 Status of the Management Plan 36 4.8 Maintaining consensus 79

2 location, buffer zone 5 main management challenges 81 and ownership 38 5.1 Collective responsibility for adequate 2.1 Maintenance and management of the management 81 attributes 38 5.1.1 Common and supported ambition 81 2.2 Management and maintenance planning 42 5.1.2 A powerful organisation based on 2.3 Long-term protection and rehabilitation collectiveness 84 objectives 43 5.1.3 Government management and protection 84 5.1.4 Protection nature values 85 3 safeguarding in legal and 5.1.5 Rehabilitation of landscape, nature and policy frameworks 45 buildings 85 3.1 International treaties, conventions 5.1.6 Recognition for management and and charters 45 maintenance of landscape and heritage 85 3.1.1 World Heritage 52 5.2 State of Conservation 86 3.1.2 European nature protection 52 5.2.1 Maintenance and management of the 3.2 National policies, laws and regulations 53 attributes 86 3.2.1 Outline of spatial and heritage policy in the 5.2.2 Planning of management and maintenance 86 Netherlands 55 5.2.3 Long-term objectives protection and 3.2.2 Outline of spatial and heritage policy in rehabilitation 87 Flanders 62 5.3 Dealing with trends and developments 87 5.3.1 Spatial developments 88 5.3.2 Management measures 90 7.2.2.1 Broad outline 130 5.3.3 Climate change and 7.2.2.2 Origins and current meaning 130 environmental impact 92 7.2.2.3 Colony I Frederiksoord 130 5.3.4 Natural disasters, calamities and risk 7.2.2.4 Colony II Wilhelminaoord, Boschoord management 92 and Oostvierdeparten 132 5.3.5 Recreation and tourism 92 7.2.2.5 Colony III Willemsoord and 5.4 Resources 93 Westvierdeparten 134 5.4.1 Costs regular management and maintenance attributes 93 7.3 safeguarding in legal and 5.4.2 Costs visitors’ centres 93 policy frameworks 137 5.4.3 Costs regular procedures laws 7.3.1 Legal and policy frameworks and regulations, including government Oorden and Parten 137 planning processes 93 7.3.2 State 137 5.4.4 Capacity and resources 93 7.3.3 Provinces 141 5.4.5 Distribution key costs arising from 7.3.3.1 Province of Drenthe 141 Management Plan 94 7.3.3.2 Province of Fryslân 143 5.4.6 Staff functions and qualifications 95 7.3.3.3 Province of Overijssel 144 5.5 The propagation of the World 7.3.4 Municipalities 144 Heritage site Colonies of Benevolence 96 7.3.4.1 Steenwijkerland 146 7.3.4.2 Westerveld 149 6 monitoring 100 7.3.4.3 Weststellingwerf 152 6.1 Monitoring purpose 100 7.3.5 Water authority: Water Board Drents 6.2 Monitoring method 101 Overijsselse Delta (DODelta) 154 6.3 Administrative agreements 107 7.4 organisation 155 7.4.1 Colony management in Oorden PART TWO: SUB-SECTIONS and Parten 155 7.4.1.1 Administrative responsibility 155 7 section colony i, ii and iii, 7.4.1.2 Coordination mechanism Oorden frederiksoord, wilhelminaoord, and Parten 155 boschoord, willemsoord, 7.4.1.3 Colony management 156 oostvierdeparten 111 7.4.2 Position and role provinces Drenthe, Fryslân and Overijssel 157 7.0 introduction 113 7.4.3 Feedback group Oorden and Parten 158 7.4.4 Relationship with the partners 7.1 outstanding universal value 115 in the area 158 7.1.1 Outstanding Universal Value Oorden 7.4.4.1 Society of Benevolence 159 and Parten 115 7.4.4.2 Steering group integral area 7.1.2 Integrity and authenticity 121 development Westerveld 159 7.4.4.3 Agriculture 159 7.2 colonies of oorden and parten 123 7.4.4.4 Other partners 159 7.2.1 Location and boundaries 123 7.4.5 Information provision residents 159 7.2.2 Qualitative description Oorden and Parten 130 7.5 dealing with trends 8.3 safeguarding in legal and policy and developments frameworks 199 7.5.1 Collective responsibility for adequate 8.3.1 Legal and policy frameworks management 160 Ommerschans 199 7.5.1.1 Common and supported ambition 160 8.3.2 State 199 7.5.1.2 Powerful organisation based on 8.3.3 Provinces 203 collectiveness 160 8.3.3.1 Province of Overijssel 203 7.5.1.3 Government management and protection 162 8.3.4 Municipality of Ommen 204 7.5.1.4 Protection nature values 164 8.3.5 Municipality of Hardenberg 204 7.5.1.5 Rehabilitation of landscape, nature 8.3.6 Water authority: and buildings 164 Water Board Vechtstromen 206 7.5.2 State of Conservation 164 7.5.3 Factors affecting Oorden and Parten 166 8.4 organisation 208 7.5.3.1 Developments and trends affecting 8.4.1 Administration office Ommen-Hardenberg Oorden and Parten 166 as colony manager 208 7.5.3.2 Climate change and environmental 8.4.2 Province of Overijssel 209 impact 174 8.4.3 Feedback group Ommerschans 209 7.5.3.3 Natural disasters, calamities and risk 8.4.4 Workshop Overijssel / Het Oversticht 209 preparedness 175 8.4.5 Forestry Commission and Foundation 7.5.3.4 Impact of recreation and tourism Participation Ommerschans 210 and/or visitors Oorden and Parten 176 8.4.6 Veldzicht 210 7.5.4 Sources of financing 177 8.4.7 Association Ommerschans 211 7.5.5 Promotion, information and education 8.4.8 Owners 211 in Oorden and Parten 177 8.5 dealing with trends 7.6 monitoring 179 and developments 212 8.5.1 Collective responsibility for adequate management 212 8.5.1.1 Common and supported ambition 212 8 section colony iv, ommerschans 181 8.5.1.2 Powerful organisation based on collectiveness 213 8.0 introduction 182 8.5.1.3 Government management and protection 213 8.5.1.4 Protection nature values 213 8.1 outstanding universal value 184 8.5.1.5 Rehabilitation of landscape, nature 8.1.1 Outstanding Universal Value and buildings 215 Ommerschans 184 8.5.2 State of Conservation 215 8.1.2 Integrity and authenticity 188 8.5.2.1 Preservation and management 215 8.5.2.2 Management tasks preservation 8.2 colony of ommerschans 191 and management 217 8.2.1 Location and boundaries 191 8.5.3 Factors affecting Ommerschans 219 8.2.2 Qualitative description Ommerschans 194 8.5.3.1 Developments and trends affecting 8.2.2.1 Broad outline 194 Ommerschans 219 8.2.2.2 Historical origins 194 8.5.3.2 Climate change and environmental 8.2.2.3 Current meaning 196 impact 224 8.5.3.3 Natural disasters, calamities and risk 9.4 organisation 255 preparedness 225 9.4.1 Kempens Landschap as colony manager 255 8.5.3.4 Impact of recreation and tourism 9.4.2 Technical Coordination Committee 256 and/or visitors Ommerschans 225 9.4.3 Province of Antwerp 256 8.5.4 Sources of financing 226 9.4.4 City of Hoogstraten and 8.5.5 Promotion, information and education Municipality of Merksplas 257 in Ommerschans 227 9.4.5 Participation local residents 257 9.4.6 Owners 257 8.6 monitoring 229 9.5 dealing with trends and developments 258 9 section colony v and vii, 9.5.1 Collective responsibility for adequate wortel and merksplas management 258 9.5.1.1 Common and supported ambition 258 9.0 introduction 231 9.5.1.2 Powerful organisation based on 9.1 Outstanding Universal Value 232 collectiveness 259 9.1.1 Outstanding Universal Value Wortel 9.5.1.3 Government management and Merksplas 234 and protection 259 9.1.2 Integrity and authenticity 238 9.5.1.4 Protection nature values 260 9.5.1.5 Rehabilitation of landscape, nature 9.2 wortel colony and and buildings 260 merksplas colony 241 9.5.2 State of Conservation 260 9.2.1 Location and boundaries 241 9.5.2.1 Preservation and management 260 9.2.2 Qualitative description Wortel 9.5.2.2 Management tasks preservation and and Merksplas 246 management 261 9.2.2.1 Broad outline 246 9.5.3 Factors affecting Wortel and Merksplas 262 9.2.2.2 Foundation phase 1822 – 1828 246 9.5.3.1 Developments and trends affecting 9.2.2.3 Belgian independence 1830 247 Wortel and Merksplas 262 9.2.2.4 Nationalisation 1870 247 9.5.3.2 Climate change and environmental 9.2.2.5 Protection from 1999 249 impact 268 9.2.2.6 Current meaning: cultural heritage, 9.5.3.3 Natural disasters, calamities and risk landscape, social, status, functional 249 preparedness 268 9.5.3.4 Impact of recreation and tourism 9.3 safeguarding in legal and/or visitors Wortel and Merksplas 268 and policy frameworks 252 9.5.4 Sources of financing 269 9.3.1 Legal and policy frameworks Wortel 9.5.5 Promotion, information and education and Merksplas 252 Wortel and Merksplas 269 9.3.2 The Flemish Region 252 9.3.3 Province of Antwerp 253 9.6 monitoring 271 9.3.4 City of Hoogstraten and 9.6.1 Research and baseline measurements Municipality of Merksplas 254 carried out 271 9.3.5 Water Management 254 9.6.2 Monitoring approach 271 10 section colony vi, veenhuizen 275 10.5.1.4 Protection nature values 304 10.5.1.5 Rehabilitation of landscape, nature 10.0 introduction 275 and buildings 304 10.5.2 State of Conservation 305 10.1 outstanding universal value 276 10.5.2.1 Long-term strategy 305 10.1.1 Outstanding Universal Value 10.5.2.2 Management tasks preservation Veenhuizen 278 and management 305 10.1.2 Integrity and authenticity 278 10.5.3 Factors affecting Veenhuizen 306 10.5.3.1 Developments and trends affecting 10.2 colony of veenhuizen 281 Veenhuizen 306 10.2.1 Location and boundaries 283 10.5.3.2 Climate change and environmental 10.2.2 Qualitative description Veenhuizen 283 impact 309 10.2.2.1 Broad outline 283 10.5.3.3 Natural disasters, calamities and risk 10.2.2.2 Origins and development 286 preparedness 309 10.2.2.3 Current landscape 287 10.5.3.4 Impact of recreation and tourism 10.2.2.4 Landscape pattern 288 and/or visitors Veenhuizen 310 10.5.4 Sources of financing 310 10.3 safeguarding in legal and policy 10.5.5 Promotion, information and education frameworks 291 Veenhuizen 310 10.3.1 Legal and policy frameworks Veenhuizen 291 10.6 monitoring 313 10.3.2 State 291 10.3.3 Province of Drenthe 293 10.3.4 Municipality of Noordenveld 294 10.3.5 Water Board Noorderzijlvest 297 10.3.6 Site managers 298

10.4 organisation 299 10.4.1 Ownership and Management 299 10.4.2 Municipality of Noordenveld as colony manager 300 10.4.3 Province of Drenthe 300 10.4.4 Participation 301 10.4.5 Feedback group Veenhuizen 301

10.5 dealing with trends and developments 302 10.5.1 Collectively responsibility for adequate management 302 10.5.1.1 Common and supported ambition 302 10.5.1.2 Powerful organisation based on collectiveness 303 10.5.1.3 Government management and protection 303 Colonies of Benevolence

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Summary

Nomination as Outstanding Universal Value UNESCO World Heritage site The cultural landscapes of the Colonies of The Colonies of Benevolence are nominated by Benevolence are nominated on the basis of the criteria the Netherlands and Belgium for recognition as a (iii), (v) and (vi). UNESCO World Heritage site in 2018. The seven (iii) to bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony Colonies share the values of a comparable origin, as to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is well as a common conceptual framework and role living or which has disappeared; in the (re)education and care of the poor, health (v) be an outstanding example of a traditional care and training. They went through a similar human settlement, land-use, or sea-use which is development over the years. Together they form representative of a culture (or cultures), or human a ‘cultural landscape’ with agricultural use, with interaction with the environment especially when aspects of a free and an unfree setting, defined by it has become vulnerable under the impact of a continuously developing landscape structure irreversible change; and with characteristic (clusters of ) buildings and (vi) be directly or tangibly associated with events or vegetation within characteristic landscape structures. living traditions, with ideas, or with beliefs, with The Colonies of Benevolence were presented as a artistic and literary works of outstanding universal prospective UNESCO World Heritage site in the significance. Netherlands in 2011 and in Belgium in 2013. In 2015, the Dutch government decided, also on behalf of the Flemish Region in Belgium, to officially nominate the Colonies of Benevolence in 2017. Summary 11 Organisation Legal and policy-related safeguarding Legal and policy-related The national laws and policies in the The national laws Included in the Management Plan are Plan are Included in the Management The Dutch and Belgian governments (member states (member states The Dutch and Belgian governments for the nomination, responsible are of UNESCO) of the and safeguarding inscription, recognition for a long- the responsibility They jointly take OUV. term adequate implementation of the Management timely compliance with and for Plan for the site, by for verification requirements the procedural based on periodic reports through UNESCO, monitoring. A sound basis for safeguarding the OUV is provided the OUV is provided A sound basis for safeguarding by the Kingdom of ratified treaties, international by and the Kingdom of Belgium, as well the Netherlands regarding as the international charters and guidelines of protection This applies to the heritage. cultural ​​ values nature as to the existing the heritage as well through protection which also enjoy in the Colonies, directives. European laws and the national and regional Netherlands and policies in Belgium and Flanders also provide systems their own have Both countries safeguarding. heritage spatial planning, through for protection largely are These systems policy. policy and nature Where though not without differences. comparable, into account in the taken occur they are differences the systems Plan. In both countries, Management of citizens and for the involvement contain guarantees adaptation and application of in the adoption, owners the policy. developments (opportunities and threats), which are which are (opportunities and threats), developments The in those 10 years. themselves to manifest likely to act in accordance commit themselves parties state Plan during the nomination with this Management after its entry into years Three phase (2016–2018). place. of this Plan will take a mid-term review force, The Colonies of Benevolence are cultural cultural are The Colonies of Benevolence use of the Colonies and the The agricultural The Management Plan The Management landscapes consisting of cultivated rough ground ground rough of cultivated landscapes consisting Colonies originally into agricultural and transformed through poverty to eradicate in order created this day, To disciplining. education and employment, in the orthogonally this principle can be perceived fields, meadows, landscape with avenues, structured institutions, farms, houses, and characteristic forests buildings. schools and industrial churches, the Society of Benevolence formulated by objectives in essence continued and were centuries ago, two supplemented with new functions which provide a with the original social significance of the Colonies The series as a whole interpretation. contemporary of the significance of picture an accurate provides of the Society of Benevolence. the social experiment unfree and of free basic typology The characteristic this; as do the orthogonal Colonies demonstrates and the pattern of roads, landscape structure measurements; with fixed waterways avenues, disciplining and and the specific facilities for care, representative in the form of of the colonists training and planting. buildings This Management Plan is an independent component This Management (part 5e) of the nomination file of the Colonies of of one main document for the consists It Benevolence. as a whole, site Heritage World serial transnational sections for contiguous or adjacent and four area and the period 2018–2028 The Plan covers Colonies. Universal focuses on upholding the Outstanding sustainably preserving, protecting, by OUV, Value, site. Heritage maintaining and managing the World will be adequately incorporated developments New site will be actively Heritage and the World This management plan lists to society. propagated of the policy- in respect the activities undertaken of the OUV and and managerial protection related and significance of the for communicating the values Colonies of Benevolence. Colonies of Benevolence

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→ Frederiksoord, 1818 Vue d’une partie de la Colonie de Frederiksoord Johannes van den Bosch [translation: Charles Louis Guillaume Josephe de Keverberg], De la Colonie de Frederiks-oord et de ses moyens de subvenir aux besoins de l’indigence par le défrichement des terres vagues et incultes / trad. d’un ms. de J. van den Bosch par le baron De Keverberg avec préface du traducteur. Gent: Houdin, 1821. (R.A.) Summary 13 Colonies of Benevolence

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Starting point for the organisation is that it will On an overarching level, the site holder attends to take into account the differences between the the operational implementation and preparation of two countries and between the Colonies, and that the tasks within his responsibility. The site holder decisions will be taken by consensus if at all possible. appoints an operational site manager, who can rely Management will be implemented in the Colonies on a compact implementing organisation. At the where possible, through a combination of instruments same time, the site manager is an extension of – and and supported by the active involvement of the accountable to – the joint site holders. The staff of stakeholders. the programme office will be provided by both site The Netherlands and Belgium have opted for holders and by other organisations concerned. a joint siteholdership with a ‘Nodal Point’, or site Per Colony or cluster of Colonies (management holder, designated in the Netherlands and in Flanders. unit), one Colony manager will be appointed and a The shared siteholdership is a simple, pragmatic and coordination mechanism installed whenever multiple effective solution for the transnational and serial site. Colonies are clustered in one management unit. This In the Netherlands, the siteholdership is invested with may differ per management unit and will require a the province of Drenthe (on behalf of the three Dutch tailor-made approach. provinces of Drenthe, Overijssel and Fryslân and the Stakeholders will be involved at the level of municipalities concerned), and in Flanders with the each separate Colony or cluster of Colonies. In the province of Antwerp, which has delegated this task Netherlands, feedback groups will be set up for this to the (non-profit) organisation Kempens Landschap purpose, while in Flanders a group of stakeholders (landscape organisation of the Kempen region). and owners – the Technical Coordination Committee In consultation with Kempens Landschap, it was (TCC) – will be responsible. Tailor-made methods decided that the province of Drenthe assumes general will be applied for informing and involving the control in matters that transcend the two member residents and users of the Colonies as regards the countries. The member countries will establish a implementation of the Management Plan. steering group, consisting of administrators of the provinces and municipalities concerned. The steering The steering group will establish an Advisory group, collectively and by consensus, is responsible for Committee for Science, Education and Quality, for the long-term protection of the World Heritage site the purpose of issuing advice to the steering group after nomination. The steering group meets once or and the site holder. The steering group can invite twice a year. Through its controlling role in the shared the Advisory Committee on an ad hoc basis to attend siteholdership, the province of Drenthe will provide meetings, in an advisory role. The Committee may the first chairman of the steering group following also advise Colony managers on issues concerning nomination. a Colony which might affect the OUV in the Colony The Cultural Heritage Agency of the Netherlands and/or the series of the Colonies of Benevolence as (Rijksdienst voor het Cultureel Erfgoed – RCE, a whole. In addition to expertise regarding heritage executive institution of the Ministry of Education, and culture, the Committee also has knowledge about Culture and Science) and the Flanders Heritage Agency spatial and landscape quality and nature values. (Agentschap Onroerend Erfgoed – AOE, executive institution of the Flemish Government) will act as Focal On the overall level of the seven Colonies, the Points, in accordance with the procedural requirements safeguarding of the OUV is the central task of the of UNESCO. The steering group will request both steering group and the general site manager. An organisations to participate in the steering group as inherent aspect of a living landscape is that initiatives observers in an advisory role. may present themselves in one or several of the Summary 15 dealing with climate change, change, dealing with climate and calamities impact environmental Climate change is hardly a factor on a local/regional a factor on a local/regional Climate change is hardly impact with no environmental Consequently, level. a potential influence on the OUV can be identified. not located in higher are The Colonies of Benevolence strong Of course for floods or earthquakes. risk areas and hail can cause damage thunderstorms winds, This is particularly to the plantings and buildings. planting and solitary beeches, true for the avenue issues Water part of the original planting. which are and authorities, water managed adequately by are or the environment the climate, damages caused by necessary and whenever calamities will be repaired possible. tourism, integrated water management, infrastructure management, infrastructure water tourism, integrated heritage and and landscape, nature and traffic, Such climate change and calamities. archaeology, or lesser to a greater occurred have developments and of the Colonies, the history throughout extent and management of the Colonies the organisation The site holder adapted accordingly. always were the Colonies as a ‘living landscape’, where perceives as long as these are possible, remain developments of it. The of the OUV or supportive in respect neutral in lead to management measures signalled trends anticipate them and to intervene to effectively order effects adverse thus preventing necessary, whenever spatial quality in the heritage and the on the OUV, have measures management Most sense. a broad policies of in existing incorporated been already and are or the state, regions provinces, municipalities, them by included in the management as implemented managers and project managers, water agencies, or by managers and the site manager The Colony owners. events. and identify relevant monitor the trends and discussed monitored are These developments stakeholders governments, in consultations between absorb a limited number of To and landowners. are specific management measures developments, anticipated.

dealing with developments dealing with developments and trends rehabilitation Management challenges Management strategy long-term These developments concern housing, business concern housing, These developments activity, altered agricultural use, recreation and recreation use, agricultural altered activity, In the Colonies, trends and developments have been have developments and trends In the Colonies, affect may or in the future analysed which now the OUV and the spatial quality of the Colonies. that is deemed relevant, or trend development Per to be potential management challenges and measures identified. are taken In Flanders, there is a ten-year master plan for the master is a ten-year there In Flanders, and re-use adaptive (restoration, rehabilitation In Colony. of Merksplas landscape rehabilitation) the focus is primarily on the the Dutch Colonies, proceeding before buildings, vacant of re-use adaptive line should be in re-use The adaptive to restoration. (agriculture and history with the landscape structures education, housing, care, innovation, and agricultural the Colonies. of detention, recreation) The long-term strategy for all the Colonies is aimed for all strategy The long-term the OUV in all the and reinforcing at preserving main challenge for the Colonies of The Colonies. the quality of life in the is to preserve Benevolence new economic seek and incorporate and to areas The development developments. and incentives in which the a strategy encompasses philosophy and prevails of the areas context heritage cultural development. for sustainable as an inspiration serves Colonies that could have an impact on the quality of an Colonies that could have of managerial This will lead to a series site. the entire tasks to be carried out, including early detection once at least and meetings, of such developments, provinces on the subject from of experts a year, to jointly consider in order and municipalities, and themselves, manifesting and trends developments these as uniformly as possible. to address how Colonies of Benevolence

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dealing with recreational crowds —— Incidental resources to fund projects and The Colonies landscapes are attractive for research. External funding will be sought recreational activities and leisure. The cultural in this respect, for example in the form heritage elements appeal to descendants of colonists of subsidies. and to those interested in the history of Colony life. So far, this has not led to serious recreational pressure. As part of the current collaboration between the It is expected that the flow of tourists and holiday involved organisations for the purpose of propagating makers will increase slightly. In most Colonies, and managing the Colonies, staff is currently already or in the immediate vicinity, there are sufficient deployed on a comparable scale, and resources have opportunities for recreational accommodation, such been made available for regular management and as campsites, hotels, bed and breakfasts and group maintenance, while incidental resources are found for accommodations. The recreational infrastructure projects on subjects like information, education and offers enough space to accommodate the expected culture. growth. The four planned visitors’ centres will expand and align their services and activities, and will provide capacity building visitors with proper reception and directions. The programme office and the site manager have at their disposal the knowledge and expertise of the Cultural Heritage Agency of the Netherlands (RCE) Resources and the Flanders Heritage Agency (AOE). In addition, the site manager and Colony managers, within the use of manpower and money provinces and at various regional and managing A basic principle for the funding and cost distribution bodies, have extensive knowledge on the conservation of the Colonies of Benevolence as World Heritage of landscape structures and objects, including site is that each Colony bears its own costs for the nature and landscape elements. Finally, the Advisory implementation of management measures. Parties Committee for science, education and quality has also will jointly bear the costs for the overall management been established to harness the knowledge required to and coordination, including the obligations related to manage the site effectively. monitoring and periodic reporting. After obtaining the In 2016, together with the Heritage Agencies in UNESCO World Heritage status, the deployment (on the Netherlands and Belgium, the Dutch and Flemish a yearly basis) of staff and resources will comprise: UNESCO Committees set up a strategic capacity —— Structural deployment of staff for the building programme focused on the Colonies of programme organisation, amounting Benevolence. to approximately 2 FTE per year for the programme office and approximately 0.25 FTE per year per Colony. Propagating the heritage —— Annual expenditure of approximately ¤ 150,000 at central level and an average The story of the Colonies of Benevolence, their 200- of approximately ¤ 15,000 per Colony year history, deserves to be heard. The landscapes and for research and monitoring, exchanges buildings are worth visiting and they bring the story related to UNESCO, provision of to life. Moreover, the Colonies provide added value to information (linked to communication and companies and organisations that have settled there. information) and PR, and the coordination The cooperating organisations are further developing and interaction with local and regional the Colonies of Benevolence into a brand. ‘Koloniën parties, including the feedback group. van Weldadigheid’ (Colonies of Benevolence) is Summary 17 the site and an outline of the history which the site and an outline of the history serial transnational has led to the current integrity and the explores It heritage site. authenticity of the site and the attributes the basic Furthermore, that form the OUV. principles underlying the Management set out; Plan are details of and provides the buffer zones, ownership; the protection that safeguard frameworks of the site; and manage that will be set up to protect the site; trends the state, the current challenges, that influence the site and the management as the available as well envisaged, measures this chapter points Furthermore, resources. through the heritage is propagated out how and education, information, research, promotion; designed for the management of the site developments. and for reporting Chapter 1 contains a description of the OUV of Chapter 1 contains a description of the OUV the location of the site and Chapter 2 shows Chapter 3 describes the legal and policy organisation the of nature the explains 4 Chapter Chapter 5 describes the major management Chapter 6 deals with the monitoring programme sub-sections Guide to the Management Plan Guide to the Management main section — — — — — — — — — — — — The sub-sections are an integral part of the The sub-sections an integral are a further elaboration Plan and provide Management or of the management on the OUV per Colony contiguous or adjacent Colonies (management unit). of these sub-sections with The structure corresponds main section. of the the structure potential impact on the OUV, as a basis potential impact on the OUV, to control and measures for interventions them; landscape containing the the cultural buildings and planting; representative so as to be able to make measures, if necessary. adjustments Monitoring Monitoring the state of maintenance of the state Monitoring of management the progress Monitoring Timely detection of developments with a with Timely detection of developments The Colonies have a joint communication policy The Colonies have — — — — — — A monitoring system will be introduced to provide to provide will be introduced A monitoring system for manner basic information in a structured the management of the OUV of the Colonies of This involves: site. Benevolence (vision, house style, logo use, layout for exhibitions, for exhibitions, layout logo use, style, house (vision, The site the site holder. managed by audiovisuals), for the coherent holder is ultimately responsible in the nomination in as laid down story, overall of the Colonies with the administrators collaboration managers). The site holder Colony and the future this overall managers both propagate and the Colony information about the locations, including story, This will be done cohesion and appeal of the Colonies. who will be with the stakeholders, in collaboration of in the four (clusters setting up the visitors’ centres ) of the seven will tell the story Colony Each Colonies. per story as the specific as well Colonies as a whole, and transnational as a component of the serial Colony site. Heritage World used as the main label, to be managed by the site used as the main label, to be managed by Colonies the main label, the separate Under holder. van a sub-label. The main label ’Koloniën will have as recognisable be clearly always will Weldadigheid’ image and logo. text The monitoring programme is set up to comply with The monitoring programme on the site every to report the UNESCO requirement six years.

PART ONE: MAIN

DOCUMENT Colonies of Benevolence

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Introduction

Since 2005, drawing up a Management Plan is a This Management Plan focuses on positioning requirement of the World Heritage Committee of the OUV of the World Heritage site Colonies UNESCO. Management Plans are aimed at upholding of Benevolence on the overarching level of this the Outstanding and Universal Value of World transnational serial site. The collectiveness of the Heritage sites recognised by UNESCO. This involves: Colonies can be found in various aspects. The origins The protection, preservation, sustainable of the separate Colonies are comparable, and they maintenance and management of the share a conceptual framework and role in (re-) World Heritage site; education, care of the poor, health care and training, The appropriate incorporation of new etc. Moreover, they have developed in a similar developments; fashion. Together they form a ‘cultural landscape’ The propagation of the World Heritage site to with agricultural use, with aspects of a free and an society. unfree setting, defined by an ongoing development in landscape structure and with characteristic (clusters Protection is in order and ensured by laws and of ) buildings and vegetation. regulations. In addition, the parties know how to deal The Management Plan is an integral part of the with developments without harming the OUV of the nomination file (section 5e). Colonies of Benevolence. It is important to understand that we are dealing with a living landscape, in which The Colonies of Benevolence were presented as a agricultural use is essential for the continuity of the prospective UNESCO World Heritage site in 2011 OUV of the World Heritage site. The parties concerned in the Netherlands (by inscription on the Tentative regard the propagation of this World Heritage site as a List of Dutch World Heritage sites) and in 2013 in development challenge. The propagation of the World Belgium (by drawing up the application file). In 2015, Heritage site is an important task for the Colonies of the Dutch government decided, also on behalf of the Benevolence in the coming years. Flemish region in Belgium, to officially nominate the Colonies of Benevolence in 2017. 1 Introduction

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The Colonies of Benevolence were established between 1818 and 1825 in seven ‘rough areas’, in what are currently the Netherlands and Belgium. In the sub-sections, the Colonies I, II and III and the Colonies V and VII are described as a single management unit. The other Colonies each constitute one management unit.

MANAGEMENT UNIT COLONY NAME AND YEAR

1 I Frederiksoord (1818–1820)

II Wilhelminaoord, Boschoord, Oostvierdeparten (1821–1823)

III Willemsoord, Westvierdeparten (1820–1822)

2 IV Ommerschans (1819)

3 V Wortel (1822)

VII Merksplas (1825)

4 VI Veenhuizen (1823)

M1.2 THE NETHERLANDS AND BELGIUM AND COLONIES OF BENEVOLENCE M1.21:800.000 The Netherlands and Belgium and Colonies of Benevolence 1:1.800.000 Colonies of Benevolence

22 53°30'0"N

VI: Veenhuizen 53°0'0"N I: Frederiksoord, II: Wilhelminaoord, III: Willemsoord

IV: Ommerschans 52°30'0"N

Netherlands 52°0'0"N Germany 51°30'0"N V: Wortel VII: Merksplas 51°0'0"N Belgium 50°30'0"N Border Colonies of Benevolence

Coordinate System: RD New Projection: Double Stereographic Datum: Amersfoort Units: Meter 50°0'0"N 0 20 40 60 Km.

Service Layer Credits: Esri, DeLorme, GEBCO, NOAA NGDC, and other contributors

3°0'0"E 3°30'0"E 4°0'0"E 4°30'0"E 5°0'0"E 5°30'0"E 6°0'0"E 6°30'0"E 7°0'0"E 7°30'0"E

Colonies of Benevolence

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1 Outstanding Universal Value Colonies of Benevolence

1.1 QUALITATIVE DESCRIPTION Agricultural Colonies were chosen because these would enable communities of colonists to produce their own food, to be self-sufficient, which would 1.1.1 A significant and large-scale bring down food prices in general. Domestic food social experiment production was an important issue in many places in Europe at that time, as was the belief that agriculture Shortly after the fall of Napoleon in 1815, the Society could provide for an increase in wealth. Hence the of Benevolence was established in the newly created high degree of international interest in this project. United Kingdom of the Netherlands. This was an initiative of the bourgeoisie, supported by officials of the Ministry of the Interior and the king himself. 1.1.2 New cultural landscapes The Society of Benevolence aimed to fight, and even eradicate, poverty in the cities, through the Between 1818 and 1825, the Society of Benevolence care of members of the greatly impoverished urban established seven Colonies of Benevolence in sparsely proletariat – which was a financial relief for cities populated corners of the kingdom. In these domestic – and by raising these to (renewed) self-reliance in Colonies, eighty square kilometres of rough heaths newly established Colonies of Benevolence. and peatlands were cultivated and transformed into These Colonies of Benevolence were rooted fertile farmland. in utopian ideas and theories of the Enlightenment, There were two types of Colony: free and in which the emancipation of citizens, education, unfree. The regime of the three free Colonies was self-reliance, personal responsibility and freedom less rigid than that of the four unfree Colonies. The of religious practice were central, and based on free Colonies were aimed at housing people in a (new the premise that man was makeable (as was the composite) family context, while the unfree Colonies landscape) through proper control. focused on individuals (vagrants, beggars, orphans...) Outstanding Universal Value 1 Colonies of Benevolence 25 Precursor: social and social and Precursor: agricultural 1.1.4 Progressive thinkers among the European among the European thinkers Progressive Due to their experimental and innovative character character and innovative Due to their experimental economic effects: – and also because of their desired food prices and lower food production domestic more the country – the Colonies of Benevolence throughout emulated. attention and were international attracted as reduction poverty Their method of integrated farming methods and their as their innovative well with the break a radical constituted organisation, level. centuries at European of previous practice Heinrich Johann Owen, including Robert elite, were Fellenberg, and Philipp Emanuel von Pestalozzi of Benevolence. members of the Society honorary the Society of members of that calibre, honorary With positioned itself within an deliberately Benevolence This facilitated the application international network. of innovative such as the introduction of new ideas, also It Pestalozzi). by (inspired training agricultural of the Colonies became that the experiment ensured international visitors attracted internationally known, about. The Colonies were written frequently and was to agricultural related initiatives of future a precursor schools and agricultural model farms, policy, exhibitions. agricultural the Colonies of Benevolence In the social sphere, an important germ in thinking about the were the social ascent of man edification of the masses, the first For in this process. of the state and the role of the less fortunate and ’elements the care time, to considered was outside the accepted framework’ organised and was be a joint social responsibility, support on a national scale and with government them a second to give experiment as a large-scale can supervision, anyone chance: with the appropriate of the initiative become a good citizen. Therefore, precursor is an essential the Society of Benevolence of tradition of the European in the development II would War which after World social engineering, state welfare lead to the fully fledged eventually

Poverty reduction reduction Poverty disciplining through 1.1.3 The decision to attain these objectives in a self- The decision to attain these objectives In the course of two centuries, these cultural these cultural centuries, In the course of two sufficient agricultural Colony, far removed from the from removed far Colony, sufficient agricultural fitted into the utopian idea that the Colonies cities, for the improvement as ‘laboratories’ should serve to to return then proceed who would of citizens, often for the colonists The fact that reality society. indicates that there different, turned out to be rather of the Colonies of to the history is also a drawback despite all the good intentions. Benevolence, The Society of Benevolence was founded to radically founded to radically was The Society of Benevolence it of the poor and to render care the transform time in the first the long term. For in redundant on a national scale and with involvement history, urbanites was of impoverished care the state, from a second chance given and they were organised colonisation and domestic large-scale through was The underlying philosophy work. agricultural and could be remedied, makeable that people were were if they and that they could become self-reliant Disciplining the colonists new opportunities. offered through labour, concept: through the central was a instilling and through training modern (agricultural) sent Those who were on religion. based morality strict being’ better human as ‘a had to return to a Colony citizen). (read: landscapes, intentionally designed and created by by intentionally designed and created landscapes, the within evolved organically have human hands, of the foundation phase. structures and had a more collective character. The Enlightened character. collective and had a more provided that a solution was aspect of this idea was and all kinds of poverty. groups for all the target

Outstanding Universal Universal Outstanding Colonies of Value Benevolence 1 Colonies of Benevolence

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→ Veenhuizen (VI), landreclamation with in the background the wet heath and peatlands of the Fochtelooërveen (S.S) Outstanding Universal Value 1 Colonies of Benevolence 27 Colonies of Benevolence

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that we still know today. The Colonies are an iconic utopian experiment in social engineering, with example of how a community can combat poverty. the objective of eradicating poverty through a system of agricultural settlements. The Even by today’s standards, this was a radical and seven Colonies demonstrate the evolution large-scale experiment. Not only is this evident from of the system with free and unfree Colonies, the overall spatial footprint, but also from the fact and encompass the traces of its successes and that by mid 19th century, 2% of the population of The failures. The experiment is an important step in Netherlands had been placed in one of the Colonies. the long Western European tradition of care of Today, one in 16 Dutch people – more than 6% of the the poor and distinguishes itself by its large scale population – has ancestors who at one time lived in and the active role of the State. the Colonies of Benevolence. This is reflected in: 1 The systematic disciplining (labour, 1.1.5 Landscapes of Memory training and morality) of poor and needy citizens, organised on a national scale; The Colonies are important as landscapes of memory, 2 The building up of self-reliant communities if only because of the numbers of colonists and with high-quality facilities; other inhabitants who lived there over the years 3 The organisation of a ‘laboratory for better and, consequently, the numbers of families with citizens’ for the existing society. a background in the Colonies as they developed through various phases. While this background until Criterion V: recently was a taboo subject and often led to a sense Be an outstanding example of a traditional of embarrassment, this has now changed, partly human settlement, land-use, or sea-use which is because of the current popularity of genealogical representative of a culture (or cultures), or human research. Embarrassment is giving way to pride and interaction with the environment especially when taboo to open debate. In addition, current efforts by it has become vulnerable under the impact of governments and organisations to protect and develop irreversible change. this heritage and to make it accessible are substantial. The Colonies of Benevolence are an exceptional series of agricultural settlements, cultivated 1.2 SUBSTANTIATION as ‘islands’ in inhospitable heath and peatland OF THE OUV areas. The orthogonal structure and the distinctive layout of the landscape reflect the The cultural landscapes of the Colonies of character of free and unfree Colonies. The strict Benevolence are nominated on the basis of the criteria hierarchic structure and dimensioning, with (iii), (v) and (vi). the carefully considered placement of buildings and planting, was instrumental in the intended Criterion III: influencing of the behaviour of the inhabitants. To bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony The current cultural landscapes illustrate the to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is extent, the ambition and the evolution of this living or which has disappeared. social experiment.

The Colonies of Benevolence bear testimony to an exceptional and large-scale early 19th century Outstanding Universal Value 1

Colonies of Benevolence 29 The joint action of citizens and the State in The joint action of citizens and the State The landscape of memory with its diverse This is reflected in: This is reflected 7 on a tackling poverty to approach an innovative partnership; in a public-private national scale, 8 memory meanings in the collective and evolving and Belgium. of the Netherlands The Management Plan focuses on the World Heritage Heritage the World Plan focuses on The Management in the Netherlands site of the Colonies of Benevolence as described and with the boundaries and Flanders, World in the nomination file UNESCO stipulated site Colonies of Benevolence. Heritage for the protection, The site holder is responsible management of maintenance and sustainable them for making the Colonies of Benevolence, and for the accessible and perceptible, recognisable, Value and Universal of the Outstanding propagation The site holder adopts of the Colonies of Benevolence. Plan was Plan. The Management the Management with the up in consultation and cooperation drawn and safeguarding in the protection parties involved of consists It Value. and Universal of the Outstanding part and four sub-sections a general for the different in which the contiguous Colonies I, II and Colonies, Boschoord, Wilhelminaoord, III (Frederiksoord, and Willemsoord) and Wateren, Oostvierdeparten jointly described in one sub-section.are The same for Colonies V and VII followed was procedure Colony). and Merksplas Colony (Wortel The cultivation and development and development The cultivation types: model with two The organisational The focus on the maximisation and Be directly or tangibly associated with events with events associated or tangibly directly Be with ideas, or with beliefs, or living traditions, of outstanding works with artistic and literary significance. universal in poverty experiment The nationally organised took in the Colonies of Benevolence reduction of the elite and the as a social initiative root combined traditional It national government. ethic charity and work like values Christian with the ideas of the Enlightenment, such as the self-reliance, belief in emancipation, makeability, between the relationship and of religion freedom had The experiment individuals and the State. impact on the thinking about edification a great and social mobility and the role of the masses, and it in that respect, of the State responsibility of the in the development marks an early step the At engineering. of social tradition European to be utopian. proved the ambition same time, the meanings, associative Due to the numerous Colonies earned their place in the collective and Flanders. memory of the Netherlands This is reflected in: This is reflected 4 settlements closed agricultural of extensive and structure hierarchic with a strict out with the aim of working dimensioning, solution on a national scale to an integrated of poverty; the problem 5 was The system Colonies. and unfree free of the poor and groups focused on all the target according based on the belief in progress, needy, in all its forms could be solved; to which poverty 6 productivity the optimisation of agricultural the colonists. by

Criterion VI: Criterion Colonies of Benevolence

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1.3 INTEGRITY AND were built partly by the Society of Benevolence, AUTHENTICITY partly by the Belgian and Dutch governments (unfree Colonies) and partly by private individuals (houses The story of the Colonies of Benevolence can only be and farms). Through all the phases changes occurred, told in the context the seven Colonies as a whole. In sometimes related and sometimes not related to the none of the separate Colonies is this story represented spirit of the Colonies. in all its glory. The proposed World Heritage site, on account of its The following periods can be distinguished in cohesion and its overall spatial and associative values, the foundation and evolution of the Colonies with the accompanying moveable and intangible of Benevolence: heritage, testifies to the exceptional nature of the 1 Preliminary phase: the period before Colonies of Benevolence. This makes the series of the arrival of the Society of Benevolence, seven an exceptional and credible heritage site. with uncultivated heaths and peatlands with sporadic cultivation; The visual integrity of the Colonies has in some 2 Foundation Phase: cultivation and respects suffered from the effects of privatisation organisation by the Society of Benevolence and temporary neglect. Currently this is no longer (1818–1825); the case. Adaptive re-use takes place when buildings 3 The further evolution of the Colonies are vacant, the importance of the heritage is fully (varying in time per Colony; roughly 1825–1859); recognised by the government and the population, 4 Phase of state institutions in the unfree and there is no pressure of urbanisation in the Colonies, partial privatisation in the free surrounding areas. Colonies, and increases in scale in all the Colonies (varying in time per Colony, roughly The integrity is reflected in the following after 1859); (complementary) aspects: 5 Phase of redevelopment and valuation of —— Integrity of boundaries; the heritage (starting from the period 1980– —— Integrity of landscape; 1990). —— Integrity of use; —— Integrity of historical knowledge.

1.3.1 Integrity 1.3.2 Authenticity The Colonies of Benevolence are cultural landscapes consisting of cultivated rough ground and The structure of the cultural landscape, the existing developed into agricultural Colonies with a view buildings and the archaeological sites (Ommerschans) to eradicating poverty through labour, training and authentically and credibly tell the story of the disciplining. Until today, this basic principle remains Colonies of Benevolence, from their inception to recognisable in the orthogonally structured landscape the present day. Said structures have remained with avenues, meadows, fields, forests, and the recognisable and have been preserved in their essence. characteristic houses, farms, institutions, churches, The use of the Colonies for agricultural purposes schools and industrial buildings. and the objectives formulated by the Society of Benevolence two centuries ago, were in essence In the course of almost two centuries, this landscape continued and supplemented with new functions that was enriched and modernised. The current buildings provide the original social significance of the Colonies Outstanding Universal Value 1 Colonies of Benevolence 31 Each Colony also had specific facilities for the Each Colony With each new Colony, the Society of Benevolence the Society of Benevolence each new Colony, With implementation of the model. changed the practical in the distinction this is reflected and foremost First each with a Colonies, and unfree free between . basic typology characteristic can also be noted within the two The development has an orthogonal landscape Each Colony types. pattern of roads, and a basic cultivation structure measurements. and fixed waterways avenues, such as the soil conditions Depending on natural that landscape system, and the water structure not always pattern are and that cultivation structure the same. exactly of the colonists the disciplining and the training care, and planting. buildings in the form of representative in the series differs each Colony Consequently, which meaning, and has its own the others from contributes to the whole. Attributes of planting and trees; (materials and substance); (design and architecture); 1.3.3 The connecting factor is not one single series of seven The authenticity of the proposed of the cultivation; Authenticity of the structure Authenticity of buildings Authenticity of buildings Authenticity values; of archaeological Authenticity of functions. Authenticity — — — — — — — — — — — — with a contemporary interpretation. interpretation. with a contemporary as it structure period, but the landscape ‘authentic’ and in which four determining phases has developed of integrity) can be recognised. (see statement picture an accurate The series as a whole provides of the Society social experiment of the extensive of Benevolence. in the following is reflected Colonies of Benevolence (complementary) aspects: The Colonies of Benevolence form a cohesive series, series, form a cohesive The Colonies of Benevolence insights and with evolving designed in accordance the time, years’ In seven adapted to local conditions. constructed. were Colonies of Benevolence seven the nationwide The complete series illustrates and the ambition of the commitment, the grandeur quickly new how shows The series also enterprise. and care agriculture ideas on land development, the and how succeeded each other in those years, in integrated were in one Colony gained experiences as a whole. in the system and thus a subsequent one, but the same everywhere, was The basic structure adapted to the organically also was the realisation and to local ground rough of the properties physical conditions. Colonies of Benevolence

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COLONY ATTRIBUTES

I Typology Free Colony Frederiksoord (1818–1820) Long ribbons with small farms

Structure Main avenues, secondary avenues, planting Canal Measurement system: plots 2.4 hectares, later 2.8 hectares, increased to 6 x 50 hectares

Representative Colony houses, housing for officials, schools, central facilities, workshops, farms, buildings Society Buildings and of Benevolence Westerbeeksloot estate, star-shaped forest, garden landscaping, horticultural planting school

II Typology Free Colony Wilhelminaoord, Boschoord, Long ribbons with small farms Oostvierdeparten (1821–1823) Structure Main avenues, secondary avenues, planting Canal Measurement system: plots 2.8 hectares, increased to 6 x 50 hectares

Representative Colony houses, housing for officials, schools, home for the elderly, central facilities, workshops, Buildings and farms, buildings Society of Benevolence planting

III Typology Free Colony Willemsoord, Long ribbons with small farms Westvierdeparten Crossroads village centre (1820–1822) Structure Main avenues, secondary avenues, planting Measurement system: plots 3 hectares

Representative Colony houses, housing for officials, schools, traces of Jewish life, central facilities, workshops, Buildings and farms, buildings Society of Benevolence planting

IV Typology Unfree Colony of Benevolence Ommerschans (1819) Central institutions with farm ribbons

Structure Main avenues, secondary avenues, planting Moats, ‘wijken’, plot ditches Measurement system: 35 hectares, approx. 800 metres

Representative Sconce, State Institution and staff housing, ribbon village, workshops, farm ribbons, churches and Buildings and cemeteries, institutions, farms planting Outstanding Universal Value 1 Colonies of Benevolence 33 ATTRIBUTES At first free Colony, later unfree Colony Colony unfree later Colony, free At first development ongoing with facilities and crossroads ribbons with central Farm structure and paths in between the main road roads Main avenues, brooks) Loop (slow-running Moats, Staakheuvelse and 60 metres 725 system: Measurement roads) (cross centre village farm, cemetery, houses, workshops, Guards’ Colony Unfree farms institutions with large Central planting secondary avenues, Main avenues, ditches plot Moats, ‘wijken’, and 25 metres 375 750, system: Measurement and cemeteries, churches workshops, ribbon village, Institutions and staff housing, State housing) (farms with integrated institutions, ‘Middenhuisboerderijen’ Colony Unfree development model farm and ongoing institution with large-scale Central moat secondary avenues, Main avenues, 225 metres system: Applied measurement chapel, school, cemetery housing, prison guards’ buildings, and surrounding Farm Large Typology Structure Representative and Buildings planting Typology Structure Representative and Buildings planting Typology Structure Representative and Buildings planting COLONY V (1822)Wortel VI (1823) Veenhuizen VII (1825)Merksplas Colonies of Benevolence

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1.4 STARTING POINTS OF the up-scaling and connecting of these THE MANAGEMENT PLAN projects, attention will be given to the collective appeal of the World The purpose of this Management Plan is to preserve, Heritage site; propagate and reinforce the Outstanding and In the coming years, the special significance Universal Value for present and future generations, of the Colonies of Benevolence in where possible and appropriate. To this end, the site relation to contemporary issues of holder applies the following general starting points poverty and social problems will or ‘principles’, of which the first two are derived from be deepened and put to use. See also the Charter van Merksplas (points 9 and 10) which Section 5.4. was signed by all the parties in 2012: 1 Maintaining the support of inhabitants and Ad B. Policy-based protection entrepreneurs in the Colonies of Benevolence At the time of the nomination, the policy of for the special cultural landscape of the Colonies the participants of the steering group will be actively stimulated; is focused on preservation of 2 The nominated World Heritage site the heritage of the Colonies of stimulates, maintains, reinforces and utilises Benevolence, and on enhancing them the cultural heritage values in the Colonies and making them accessible. This of Benevolence, and regards these as a source involves not only spatial policy, but also of inspiration for future developments in the policies regarding culture, recreation territories; and economy; 3 The Colonies of Benevolence are managed The task for the next 10 years is to raise through collective coordination and control, this collective to a higher level, with the responsibility for the implementation emphatically in cooperation with being placed at the lowest possible level; the network of inhabitants, site 4 Both mutual and more broadly-based managers and owners, enterprises, international exchanges and project organisations in the field of education development linked to the Colonies will and research, and influential be stimulated. participants in the public debate on poverty and social engineering. In this Management Plan, the activities for the next 10 years are listed. These are: Ad C. Management-based protection A. The Propagation of the values and the The assessment and visualisation meaning of the Colonies of Benevolence; (monitoring) of developments and B. Policy-based protection; potential threats for the preservation C. Management-based protection; and protection of the OUV of the Colonies of Benevolence; This translates into the following activities: The identification of appropriate and feasible Ad A. Propagation actions and measures to address these As regards the continuation of the many developments and potential threats existing projects and activities in in such a way that the preservation the field of education, museums/ and the protection of the Colonies of visitors’ centres, theatre, research, Benevolence is sustainably safeguarded creative industries and tourism, and in the next 10 years; Outstanding Universal Value 1 Colonies of Benevolence 35 in the management of the heritage. expertise and jointly coordinate The Colonies of Benevolence Colonies as a the management of the seven control for the implementation The responsibility whole. is placed and will remain of management measures with the organisation possible level, at the lowest is Each Colony respect. equipped in this that is best management of and for the preservation responsible buffer zone and attributes (property, property its own arise for managing the effects that may and present), On administrative of influence. area a larger from will further the organisation levels, and operational in and collectivity achieved the cooperation develop will if measures Management the nomination phase. an overall On possible be implemented in the Colony. the and further develop the aim is to preserve level, of the and the individual character recognisability Communication, coordination, landscapes. cultural that transcend monitoring and periodic reporting place jointly on an will also take the Colonies, level. overarching for the adequate The site holder is responsible This means site. Heritage management of the World setting in motion and implementing activities that the quality of the World and improve preserve research, The site holder encourages site. Heritage facilities and making information providing by and feasible, relevant If possible. where available in the protection, will be integrated results research education, information and spatial development, They of the Colonies of Benevolence. promotion in the Colonies and made digitally will be presented accessible as far as possible. living landscapes that have The Colonies are Future state. into their current developed provided is possible and desirable, development In as the basis. of the OUV serves the safeguarding is maintaining scope for development this respect, point for the further functional use of the a starting elements characteristic In certain Colonies, Colonies. constellation current the Preserving disappeared. have and necessary, where with restoration is paramount, the Colonies of Benevolence as ‘living the Colonies of Benevolence landscapes’ with scope for new which will enhance developments design and the recreational their future focusing and educational significance, – (material and by on – and inspired intangible) heritage values; implementation of the management measures. play a role in the protection, preservation, preservation, in the protection, a role play management and maintenance, sustainable of the values of the universal propagation site; Heritage World new uses or dealing in realising a role play in such a developments with external of the Colonies is not that the OUV way compromised. The involvement of parties in the The involvement The organisation of the management of The organisation Parties, such as other governing authorities, that authorities, such as other governing Parties, Parties like stakeholders and managers that stakeholders like Parties — — — — Management, protection and preservation require require and preservation protection Management, and users in the Colonies of residents the cooperation The landscapes pre- and in their immediate vicinity. This entails to a ‘living tradition’. eminently testify that the site holder will implement the Management with: Plan in collaboration The Management Plan is aimed at sustainably Plan is aimed at sustainably The Management the anchoring the management, the protection, and the maintenance of the Outstanding preservation World of the prospective Value and Universal of the Part site Colonies of Benevolence. Heritage solutions management is to timely find appropriate and potential and to anticipate on developments the in and around themselves manifest that threats of Benevolence. of the Colonies area The management ensures that people will be involved that people will be involved The management ensures in the choice and the implementation of management or their if these affect their property measures the continued The management also ensures use. and of specific contribution of the environment Colonies of Benevolence

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appropriate adaptive re-use in case of prominent TIME SPAN OF THE MANAGEMENT PLAN buildings and sites, with adequate management of the existing attributes. A Management Plan is usually adopted for a period of 10 years. The nomination of the Colonies The inhabitants in and around the Colonies and their of Benevolence for recognition as World Heritage use and management of the land and the buildings, site is submitted in 2017 for approval in 2018, at the provided these are not inconsistent with the OUV, are 200th anniversary of the Society of Benevolence and of great importance for the sustainable and adequate the start of the first Colony, and 25 years after the management and the safeguarding of the Colonies in abolition of the Vagrancy Act in Belgium. their environment. This use and the pride involved are key assets for the preservation, without high costs This Management Plan focuses on the period and without resorting to museum conservation, which 2018–2028. Included in the Management Plan are would be difficult to sustain in the long run. developments (opportunities or threats) which are likely to manifest themselves in those 10 years. The administrative parties commit themselves to act in accordance with this Management Plan during the 1.5 STATUS OF THE nomination phase (2016–2018). Three years after its MANAGEMENT PLAN entry into force, a mid-term review of this Plan will take place. The Dutch State and the Flemish Region are responsible for the nomination and the adoption of the Management Plan, which complies with the requirements of the World Heritage Committee of UNESCO. The site holder (shared siteholdership of the province of Drenthe and Kempens Landschap), as ‘Nodal Point‘, is responsible for the management. The site holder plays an important role in the implementation of the Management Plan.

After having been adopted by the steering group of administrators of the provinces and municipalities concerned, the Management Plan will primarily be a binding plan for the site holder. The Management Plan provides the basic principles and guidelines for the policies of all the signatories. It has no legal status itself, but the management measures affect public authorities, private parties, owners and users/ operators. Following adoption by the steering group, the Management Plan is added to the nomination file to be submitted to the World Heritage Committee of UNESCO.

Colonies of Benevolence

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2 Location, buffer zone and ownership

2.1 LOCATION

The Colonies of Benevolence are located in the Netherlands and Belgium on the following coordinates of properties and buffer zones. The maps are included in the sub-sections of this Management Plan. Location, buffer zone 2 and ownership 39 M1.3 MAP MAP M 1.7 M 1.5 M 1.6 M 1.8 M 1.9 M 1.4 NUMBER

0 0 0 613.50 4252.75 1577.09 1577.09 2062.16 BUFFER BUFFER of colony I) of colony ZONE (HA) ZONE (identical that to 554.14 310.77 131.06 779.72 779.72 427.63 403.55 4266.81 1659.94 AREA OF AREA OF NOMINATED NOMINATED PROPERTY (HA) PROPERTY school chapel church cemetery E 4°49’27.5” E 6°3’46.83” E 4°49’32.8” E 6°11’21.56” E 6°9’39.48” E 6°23’42.19” E 6°23’29.72” N 51°21’20.0 – N 51°21’20.0 N 53°2’31.59” – N 53°2’31.59” N 51°24’10.2” – N 51°24’10.2” N 52°35’8.01” – N 52°35’8.01” N 52°50’47.11” – N 52°50’47.11” N 52°51’43.75” – N 52°51’43.75” COORDINATES N 52°49’28.78” – N 52°49’28.78” second Institution central crossroads central school of horticulture Fryslân Drenthe Drenthe REGION Antwerp Antwerp Overijssel Overijssel Overijssel Drenthe and and Drenthe Belgium Belgium COUNTRY The Netherlands The Netherlands The Netherlands The Netherlands The Netherlands NAME OF COMPONENT PART Total area (ha) area Total I: Colony (1818–1820) Frederiksoord Colony II: Colony Boschoord, Wilhelminaoord, (1821–1823) Oostvierdeparten Colony III: Colony (1820- 1822) Willemsoord Colony V: Colony (1822)Wortel VI: Colony (1823) Veenhuizen Colony IV: Colony (1819) Ommerschans Colony VII: Colony (1825)Merksplas Colonies of Benevolence

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→ Wilhelminaoord (II), planted avenue with colony houses (J.V.L.) Location, buffer zone 2 and ownership 41 Colonies of Benevolence

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2.2 BOUNDARIES (STATEMENT ON BOUNDARIES AND BUFFER ZONES)

In determining the boundaries of the Colonies of Benevolence, the total area cultivated by the Society of Benevolence by the end of the foundation phase (1818–1825) served as the basic principle. This principle concerns the total of the seven Colonies. Within these cultivation boundaries, the proposed property is the area in which the essential expression of the OUV can be recognised, because all the relevant attributes that give expression to the OUV are located here, strongly interrelated. These areas together constitute the proposed property. In all seven Colonies, generic protection of the OUV in and around the property applies. (See the Management Plan including its sub-sections). To protect the OUV against external influences that might affect it, the following principle was adopted: Where the landscape is of an open nature (Colonies I, II, III and VI), a buffer zone has been designated. Where an ‘internal buffer’ is present because the view of and from the Colony is protected by forest (Colonies V and VII), a buffer zone is considered unnecessary. Where the property is bordered at a considerable distance in relation to the attributes (Colony IV), no buffer zone has been added.

One of the functions of buffer zones for the Colonies of Benevolence is to reinforce the connection between the properties and to demonstrate the extent of the cultivation. UNESCO also regards the designation of buffer zones as a chance to actively involve parties with interests in the buffer zone in the development opportunities of the heritage. The prevailing regime in these zones is the current spatial planning regime. Location, buffer zone 2

and ownership 43

PRIVATE PARTIES PRIVATE ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

SITE MANAGERS SITE ✓ ✓ ✓

WATER AUTHORITIES WATER ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

MUNICIPALITY ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

PROVINCE ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ FLEMISH REGION FLEMISH ✓ ✓

government has an the Dutch central and Justice, of buildings important land holding and ownership of these In respect in Ommerschans and Veenhuizen. In this applies to the judicial institutions. Colonies, Agency Estate Real Government addition, the Central (part several of the Interior) owns of the Ministry the not in use by which are buildings in Veenhuizen enterprise former agricultural (the of Justice Ministry the state of Defence), and and ammunition storage The part of the built monuments. a major also owns Agency) (Buildings government Belgian Federal (prisonsinstitutions the judicial owns and reception

GOVERNMENT ( B) ( GOVERNMENT OR FEDERAL FEDERAL OR

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ STATE (NL) (NL) STATE OWNER COLONY OWNERSHIP Wilhelminaoord, Boschoord, Boschoord, Wilhelminaoord, Oostvierdeparten Westvierdeparten Willemsoord, 2.3 2.3 In the Flemish Colonies the land and buildings VI Veenhuizen VII Merksplas IV Ommerschans V Wortel III II Frederiksoord I Frederiksoord Regarding the private owners of land and monumental Regarding the Foundation buildings in the Dutch Colonies, as the successor to the Society of Benevolence, with role a prominent plays original Society, portfolio in property an important and active from Apart area. and the surrounding Frederiksoord buildings and agricultural many this Foundation, parties. private by owned lands are in communal hands (governingare authorities and Government the Central Through public institutions). of Defence and the Ministries Agency Estate Real The Colonies are the property of a variety of owners. of owners. of a variety the property The Colonies are the following by owned The land and the buildings are parties: Colonies of Benevolence

44

of illegal immigrants) in Wortel and Merksplas, parties rent or lease land and/or buildings, and on including the roads and grounds. a daily basis take decisions regarding the use and The provinces have a land holding in the Dutch maintenance of these grounds and objects. This often Colonies where it concerns the provincial roads concerns long-term contracts. Private individuals and and lands that came into the hands of the provinces organisations in the Flemish Colonies, for example, as exchange land for reparcelling operations. The have a 99-year lease agreement. Flemish Region and the province of Antwerp are owners of land, roads and houses managed by the regional housing company, the Flemish Land Agency, the Agency for Nature and Forest, the Provincial and Intermunicipal Drinking Water Company of the province of Antwerp (PIDPA) and Kempens Landschap. They own waterways, roads and land in Wortel Colony and Merksplas Colony. A major part of the farmlands and buildings (houses and farms) have been given in leasehold to farmers, entrepreneurs and private individuals. The Dutch municipalities own social facilities and most of the local infrastructure, and the occasional piece of land (such as The Third Institution in Veenhuizen) in the Colonies. In Wortel Colony the city of Hoogstraten is the owner of the grounds. In Merksplas Colony the municipality of Merksplas is the owner of the grounds and of two prominent monuments: the Large Farm and the Chapel. In the Netherlands the main water system, such as canals and some ‘wijken’ (waterways in peat districts) and ditches, including waterworks (sluices), whether or not still in operation, is owned by water authorities; in Flanders, the water system is managed by the Flemish Land Agency and the Provincial and Intermunicipal Drinking Water Society of the province of Antwerp (PIDPA). In the Netherlands, land management organisations such as the Forestry Commission (an independent administrative body) and the Society for preservation of nature monuments own most of the forests and nature reserves in the Colonies and in their buffer zones. Apart from ownership, use and management are important factors in the preservation of the OUV. The Judiciary, for example, plays a key role in the sustainable use of the judicial buildings, independent of the property position of the Central Government Real Estate Agency. In addition, hundreds of private Safeguarding in legal 3 and policy frameworks 45

WORLD HERITAGE WORLD outstanding universal value and inscribing value universal outstanding List; Heritage this on the World means of periodic monitoring, sites by over of on the state supervision, reports reactive and enhanced monitoring; conservation should be included on the list List Heritage sites in danger; Heritage of World and Natural Heritage. UNESCO, Paris, Paris, Heritage. UNESCO, and Natural 1972) 16 November heritage of and natural cultural Identifying control as exercising as well Assessing reports Deciding whether the heritage on the World I (Convention Convention Heritage World Cultural of World concerning the Protection — — — — — — The ratifying countries have committed themselves to themselves committed countries have The ratifying ensuring that the heritage sites within their borders that comply with the UNESCO criteria will be made accessible and preserved, identified, protected, Heritage The World generations. to future transmitted Heritage the World is implemented by Convention with: , which is charged Committee

INTERNATIONAL TREATIES, TREATIES, INTERNATIONAL AND CONVENTIONS CHARTERS

World Heritage Heritage World

frameworks legal and policy legal and Safeguarding in Safeguarding 3.1 3 3.1.1 The following treaties, resolutions and documents resolutions treaties, The following for the management of the Colonies of relevant are heritage. as cultural Benevolence For the purpose of drawing up management measures up management measures the purpose of drawing For site Colonies Heritage World for the prospective were international conventions of Benevolence, by the Kingdom been ratified to which have referred Kingdom of Belgium. and the of the Netherlands International charters and guidelines concerning below also consulted. Listed heritage were cultural important international conventions the most are of the Colonies of and charters for the protection In site. Heritage World as proposed Benevolence Colonies also contain nature the addition to heritage, under European protection which enjoy values, guidelines. Colonies of Benevolence

46

→ Wortel (V), planted avenue with grazing sheep, maintaining the roadside (J.V.L.) Safeguarding in legal 3 and policy frameworks 47 Colonies of Benevolence

48

—— Determining how and under which conditions The Operational Guidelines were first published in the UNESCO World Heritage Fund can be 1977. They are regularly updated to take into account used to help countries protect the World new concepts, knowledge, insights, etcetera. Heritage site. The Committee will also take decisions on financial aid to states that are On the basis of these guidelines, UNESCO requires a not in a position to bear the costs of the special Management Plan for new nominations. The nominations. World Heritage Committee as well as the Netherlands and Belgium consider this to be a proper instrument The World Heritage Convention was ratified by the for the protection and preservation of a heritage site Kingdom of the Netherlands in 1992 and by The and for the safeguarding of its social function and its Kingdom of Belgium in 1996. meaning.

By the inscription of sites which represent cultural and natural heritage on the World Heritage List – following II AUTHENTICITY nomination by the state in which they are located – UNESCO (the World Heritage Committee) declares The Venice Charter (International Charter for the site to be of outstanding universal value for the the Conservation and Restoration of Monuments international community and the history of mankind. and Sites, 1964). ICOMOS Charter – approved As per July 2016, the World Heritage List comprises by the ICOMOS General Assembly 1,052 cultural, natural and mixed sites, managed by 165 The Venice Charter contains the principles for the countries, including 34 transnational sites. preservation and restoration of heritage, particularly monumental buildings. The essence of the Charter Operational Guidelines (Operational Guidelines is that a heritage must be permanently protected in for the Implementation of the World Heritage order to serve a social purpose. The Venice Charter Convention)(UNESCO, first edition 1977, was drawn up by ICOMOS (International Council current version 2015) on Monuments and Sites), which advises UNESCO The World Heritage Committee has drawn and in particular the World Heritage Committee. up a manual (Operational Guidelines) for the UNESCO recognises the Venice Charter as an implementation of the World Heritage Convention. important starting point regarding (world) heritage. The Committee periodically reviews the guidelines, Requirements set out in the Charter include that on the basis of decisions, new concepts, knowledge special attention is to be paid to the preservation and experience regarding the World Heritage site. of the characteristic features, the genius loci, of the The Operational Guidelines provide guidelines for environment of monuments. The Venice Charter has the protection and preservation of World Heritage also provided the basis for the current understanding sites inscribed on the World Heritage List. Subjects of authenticity: ‘Replacements of missing parts must considered in this manual include: integrate harmoniously with the whole, but at the —— The Process leading to inscription on the same time must be distinguishable from the original World Heritage List; so that restoration does not falsify the artistic or —— Monitoring the conservation status of historic evidence’. World Heritage sites; —— Periodic reporting; Authenticity is one of the fundamental principles in —— Support of World Heritage sites. the World Heritage Convention and the associated Operational Guidelines. In 2008, the World Heritage Committee declared that ‘authenticity’ and ‘integrity’ Safeguarding in legal 3

and policy frameworks 49

Riga Charter on Authenticity and Historical and Historical on Authenticity Riga Charter to Cultural in relationship Reconstruction heritage (2000) Context. Heritage in the World Reconstruction Association for Architectural European 2013) (Rome Education Plan for up the Management When drawing authenticity have been preserved and have remained remained and have been preserved authenticity have of development. the stages throughout recognisable the basis of on reduction Their concept – poverty of the Enlightened ideals – is an important feature and Belgium. of the Netherlands social history of cultural reconstruction that the This charter states is landscapes can only be carried out if no damage must Reconstructions in situ remains. done to existing for the required be and must be legible and reversible, Riga Charter builds on The of the site. preservation Charter. the Venice and values on archaeological knowledge The available possible reconstructions planting is used for historic of the landscape. and for maintenance and restoration of heritage This article focuses on the preservation authenticity for the historical with respect for also emphasises the need It and credibility. of management in the contemporary customisation these landscapes. course of and in the the Colonies of Benevolence paid much attention was the nomination process, and users of the landscape. owners to involving contribute to the They will continue to actively the At per Colony. management. This is customised of the view of the development an overall same time, whole will be ensured. - in 1 Europa Nostra represents some 250 The Nara Document on Authenticity (1994). (1994). Document on Authenticity Nara The adopted during – Resolutions Resolution ICOMOS Symposia of ICOMOS or as a result declared Committee Heritage the World In 2008, The Colonies of Benevolence are a fine example of example a fine are The Colonies of Benevolence landscapes of which the identity and cultural recognition of the way in which they manage and of the way recognition heritage. restore Document is a guideline for ICOMOS The Nara of the in respect Committee Heritage and the World of the authenticity identification and the preservation taking into account environment, of the historic the fact that authenticity is one of the fundamental and the Convention Heritage principles of the World Guidelines. associated Operational and ‘integrity’that ‘authenticity’ an integral constitute Value Universal of Outstanding part of the declaration The document site. Heritage (OUV) for each World and the heritage of cultures that the diversity states of spiritual source an irreplaceable are in our world for all of mankind. In our world, and intellectual value heritage of cultural and reinforcement the protection as an promoted should be actively and the diversity essential aspect of human development. non-governmental organisations, 150 related organ isations and 1500 individual members from more than 50 countries, and focuses on the preservation cultural heritage and landscapes. of Europe’s 1 In respect of the Colonies of Benevolence, both the Colonies of Benevolence, of In respect and successful extensive countries concerned have in the field of high-quality rehabilitation experience buildings of vacant re-use and suitable adaptive The genius loci has always and building complexes. as connection, as well point in this been the starting to the landscape appropriate a re-use for the search penance, and the original functions of agriculture, a In Flanders, and training. care self-sufficiency, is being carried programme multiannual restoration awarded Landschap was Kempens out. In 2014, Award Nostra of the Europa Prix the Grand constitute an integral part of the declaration of part of the declaration an integral constitute (OUV) for each World value universal outstanding site. Heritage Colonies of Benevolence

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contemporary interventions the same time respecting the cultural heritage and the in a historical context historic urban landscape.

Resolutions of the Symposium on the The Colonies of Benevolence are a living Introduction of Contemporary Architecture landscape, where people live and work and into Ancient Groups of Buildings (ICOMOS contribute to the preservation and management. The General Assembly 1972) transnational cultural landscape will continue to The resolutions articulate how to deal with the develop, in line with the cultural heritage values and introduction of contemporary architecture into with a high spatial quality. ancient groups of buildings (see also the Venice Charter): The old structure is the basis. New architecture tourism should be integrated and should not affect the structure and aesthetics; International Charter on Cultural Tourism; Authenticity is the basis, avoid imitation; Managing Tourism at Places of Heritage Revitalisation through new use is encouraged, as Significance (1999) ICOMOS Charter – Charters long as it does not disturb the integrity and adopted by the ICOMOS General Assembly the character. In times of increasing globalisation, the protection and the presentation of our cultural heritage is a Because of their protected status, additions and major challenge. The management of the heritage is changes in the Colonies of Benevolence are closely the responsibility of the site holder and the regional monitored. The original structures and objects and community, with the primary objective of clarifying the functions originally present form the basis for new the meaning of and the need for preservation, both plans that respect the structure of the landscape. to the managing community and to visitors. World Heritage implies the obligation to respect the values Vienna Memorandum on World Heritage and and the interests of the past and the present for the Contemporary Architecture – Managing the community, as well as the values and interests of the Historic Urban Landscape (2005) UNESCO landscape and the culture in which the heritage has Memorandum – adopted by the UNESCO evolved. National and international tourism is the International Conference and the World most important way to exchange information about Heritage Committee past and present societies. Tourism emphasises the The Vienna Memorandum deals with the impact of economic importance of the heritage. Also in that present-day urban developments and contemporary sense, the preservation of heritage is important for the architecture on the value of cultural heritage. The regional and national economy, and for development memorandum contains principles for the long-term and innovation – provided it is managed properly. preservation of heritage and monuments. Constant The landscape of the Colonies is attractive for changes in dynamic cities and municipalities require recreation in the region. Until now, the size of the flow that policy makers and stakeholders develop a vision of tourists and holidaymakers has ranged from several for the city as a whole as well as for future urban thousands to 250,000 visitors per year per Colony. It development in line with the historical development is expected that the number of visitors will increase pattern. It is a challenge for contemporary slightly after the possible recognition as World architecture and urban design to meet the needs of Heritage site, with the focus on sustainable tourism. dynamic and socio-economic developments, while at This increase can be comfortably accommodated in the territories. Together with stakeholders such Safeguarding in legal 3 and policy frameworks 51

miscellaneous and on the Interpretation Charter ICOMOS Sites Heritage Cultural of Presentation 2008) (ICOMOS This involvement of the stakeholders is strongly is strongly of the stakeholders This involvement and is also in the Colonies of Benevolence, developed with the charged part of the task of the organisation management of the site. future A good forms. many Public communication takes production is the performance of the theatre example Pauperparadijs), (Het Paradise’ ‘The Pauper musical theatrical an accessible and powerful the social relevance which presents performance, in a of the Colonies of Benevolence of the history first was play The touches people. that really way on the location of performed in the summer of 2016, This attracted in Veenhuizen. The Second Institution the as from as well the region from visitors, 40,000 The part of the Netherlands. cities in the western completely sold out. performance was This Charter builds on the Venice Charter (1964), and This Charter builds on the Venice emphasises the importance of public communication and learning and education for heritage preservation, phases of development and about the about the past of the value the interpretation As regards of the site. is of all the stakeholders the involvement of the site, encouraged. as the visitors’ centres (existing and planned), the (existing as the visitors’ centres reception the proper management will ensure Colony infrastructure, The existing of visitors in the areas. of (regional) infrastructure including the recreational is sufficiently routes, horseriding and cycling walking, in the increase for the expected to allow generous and holidaymakers. number of tourists Colonies of Benevolence

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Kyoto Vision (2012) conservation status of the area. The law also covers On the occasion of the 40th anniversary of the World ‘external effects’ resulting from activities outside the Heritage Convention, the Kyoto vision emphasised area that might affect the nature values in an area, the importance of the relationship between people regardless of the distance from the protected area. and heritage, based on respect for the cultural and biological diversity and sustainable development. This For the Colonies of Benevolence, the following is the only way to bring the ‘future we want’ within protected nature areas are of interest, due to reach. their location within the property of the Colony (Fochteloërveen in Colony VI Veenhuizen) or in its The relationship between people and heritage is vicinity, and where external effects are possible. reflected in the Colonies in a multidisciplinary and participatory approach to conservation, with the active involvement and influence of the local COLONY PROTECTED AREA community.

I, II, III Drents-Friese Wold & Leggelderveld

3.1.2 European nature protection VI —

Since May 2011, the European Union has been V Heesbossen applying the Natura 2000 strategy. More than 25,000 areas within the territory of the European Union, as VI Fochteloërveen well as parts of marine areas in some member states, have been designated as Natura 2000 sites. The VII Heesbossen, Kempen clay pits Natura 2000 sites are protected under the European Birds Directive of 1979 and the Habitats Directive of 1992 for the protection of rare or threatened species of birds, plants and animals, and certain habitat Compliance with the requirements of nature types. In the Netherlands, Natura 2000 is anchored legislation and regulations in the Netherlands and in the Act of 25 May 1998, laying down new rules Flanders is an integral part of the procedures for for the protection of nature and landscape (Nature spatial planning and decision-making. In respect of all Conservancy Act 1998). In Flanders, this took place the areas management plans apply that were drawn by decree of 21 October 1997 regarding nature up and will be implemented in consultation with conservation and the natural environment (Belgian stakeholders. Official Gazette: 10 January 1998).

The Netherlands or the Flemish Region registers an area with the EU, which proceeds to place the area on a list of areas to be protected. The area is then formally designated as a Natura 2000 site. Following this, a Management Plan must be drawn up by the competent authority in the relevant area, in consultation with all the stakeholders in and around the area. The Natura 2000 sites themselves are protected against activities that affect the Safeguarding in legal 3 and policy frameworks 53 National policies, laws and laws policies, National regulations spatial planning; 3.1.3 The system of protection through through of protection The system of heritage policy; The system policy. of nature The system — — — — — — The schedule below presents a broad outline of the a broad presents The schedule below per government and instruments, legal framework of the OUV. for the protection as employed layer, In the Flemish decrees regarding the designation regarding In the Flemish decrees as as well spatial structures landscape, as protected The safeguarded. are and consistency heritage values designation also affects the spatial implementation In Flanders, and municipalities. plans of provinces heritage applies to of immovable the protection sites and the the archaeological the monuments, landscape. For the protection and the preservation of the and the preservation the protection For spatial planning in the through protection OUV, on spatial focused mostly is currently Netherlands of the functions (zoning) and the main structures while heritage and waterways), landscape (roads the particularly oriented towards more policies are of the restoration and the the protection preservation, areas. sites and valuable archaeological built objects, a significant policy can have conservation The nature as as well values impact on ecological protective & on the landscape component. The Environment the Spatial Planning will replace which Planning Act, provides laws, number of related and a large Act protection. integrated opportunities for a more In the Netherlands, the OUV of the Colonies of the OUV of the Colonies In the Netherlands, policies, national through is safeguarded Benevolence policies. regional and in Belgium (Flanders) through systems: three by covered are and regulations Laws Colonies of Benevolence

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THE NETHERLANDS LEGAL FRAMEWORK AND INSTRUMENTS BELGIUM

Legislation National spatial policy Central government Instructional Provisions Legislation Federal government Designation Monument Designation Natura 2000

↓

Decree Protection Landscape Designation Monument ↓ Designation Natura 2000 Flemish Region Design Plan and Avenue Management Plan

↓

Environmental Plan PRUP Provinces Regulation Province Landscape Management Plan Designation Monument

↓

Water Water Management Plan Boards Regulations (Keur en Legger) ↓

↓

Zoning Plan — Spatial Development Plan Environmental Plan Forest Management Plan Municipalities Environmental Permit Municipalities Mobility Plan Regulations Licensing Designation Monument Safeguarding in legal 3 and policy frameworks 55 related to the OUV. to the OUV. related World Heritage sites ‘De Beemster’ and ‘Stelling van van sites ‘De Beemster’ and ‘Stelling Heritage World on the (Defence Line of Amsterdam), Amsterdam’ heritage’ ‘world provision basis of the instructional In consultation & Planning Act. in the Environment the and municipalities involved, with the provinces further details of the instructional will establish State is to ensure of this exercise The objective provision. of the impact of policies in all in respect consistency this purpose, For and municipalities. the provinces is to be set up, of agreements framework a coherent of the OUV focused on the adequate safeguarding in all the Dutch of the Colonies of Benevolence further agreements In this respect, municipalities. of the will also be made concerning the transition the future (zoning plan) to frameworks prevailing plan), including the (environmental frameworks legislation. period of transitional to the Heritage in addition 2017, As per 1 January legislation & Planning Act, and the Environment Act that From will also change. areas nature regarding will replace Act Conservation the new Nature date, and the Flora Act, Conservation Nature the current and will eventually Act, and the Forestry Act Fauna & Planning Act. in the Environment be incorporated of the contribute to the preservation will also This Act ​​ values nature of heritage (built the protection In this way, and nature areas), archaeology, monuments, and in provincial and its incorporation landscape, plans environmental visions, municipal environmental is and permits in the Netherlands and environmental as the harmonisation with as well will be safeguarded, boards. management plans of the water the water Outline of spatial and heritage policy in the Netherlands 3.2.1 In the Netherlands, legislation for spatial planning legislation for spatial In the Netherlands, being simplified and made and heritage is currently (formerly Act Heritage The new integral. more and other buildings Act and Historic Monuments With 2016. on 1 July into force legislation) has entered focuses on this Act heritage, to the immovable regard of and the restoration the protection the preservation, the built or landscaped objects (national monuments) the spatial to 2019, Up monuments. and archaeological in the Netherlands of the heritage values protection (Wet the Spatial Planning Act through is regulated & The new Environment – Wro). ordening ruimtelijke the spatial regulate will in future which Planning Act, in will enter into force of heritage values, protection good provides & Planning Act The Environment 2019. of the OUV protection opportunities for the integral The assessment of developments. and for the integral the regarding generic rules contains separate, Act site, Heritage of the qualities of a World safeguarding in a position to issue instructions and puts the State of the safeguarding to other authorities regarding is It sites. Heritage of UNESCO World the values to offer the Colonies of Benevolence considered the by enjoyed to that currently similar protection Below, an outline is given of the main features of the of the of the main features an outline is given Below, policies conservation spatial, heritage and nature on the basis of which the of both member states, regulated. The visions, specific implementation is been taken that have and measures decrees plans, up by as drawn the OUV, to safeguard in order are authorities, municipalities and water provinces, of (or group specifically described for each Colony of these Colonies) in the sub-sections. The duration when updating these plans In the future, plans varies. the OUV will specifically be new plans, and drafting efforts will be possible, into account. Where taken and to made to harmonise the contents of the plans their duration. synchronise Colonies of Benevolence

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spatial protection

Protection through spatial planning: Spatial Planning Act (until the introduction of the Environment & Planning Act in 2019) The Dutch system of spatial planning is decentralised. Each level of government (central, provincial and municipal) bears its own responsibility. The basis of the system is the municipal authority’s zoning plan [bestemmingsplan]. This provides the legal framework for the assessment of applications by initiators of developments. When drawing up and implementing spatial planning policies, the municipalities are required to take account of cultural heritage, in accordance with the Spatial Planning (General Rules) Decree (Barro). Central government has formulated an extra protection policy specifically for the conservation of World Heritage sites; this is binding at provincial and municipal levels of government. This extra protection policy was set out by central government in the National Policy Strategy for Infrastructure and Spatial Planning [Structuurvisie Infrastructuur en Ruimte] in 2012.2 Preservation and reinforcement of World Heritage sites is one of the thirteen national interests specified by the government in this document.

Up to 2019, the province requires that the municipalities translate its specifically designated provincial interests into municipal policies, such as municipal spatial policy strategies (structural visions) and zoning plans. The actual spatial safeguarding of State and provincial interests will eventually be ensured in a municipal zoning plan. The zoning plan and municipal regulations provide the framework for the assessment of applications submitted by initiators of developments such as building plans or functional changes in land use.

Until 2019, the protection of the OUV is safeguarded in the following spatial frameworks at State and provincial level: Safeguarding in legal 3 and policy frameworks 57 PROVINCE Environmental vision Drenthe (2014) vision Drenthe Environmental of Compass province Heritage Cultural (2010) Drenthe mid- and (2007) Fryslân Plan Regional (2013) evaluation term (2011) Fryslân Spatial Regulation romte) space (Grutsk op ‘e of the Proud 2013) (Fryslân, (2009) Plan Overijssel Environmental (2009) Plan Overijssel Environmental (2014) vision Drenthe Environmental of Compass province Heritage Cultural (2010) Drenthe Social control mechanisms control Social in the spirit of this new framework offered by the by offered in the spirit of this new framework zoning plans Current & Planning Act. Environment Within plans. into environmental will be converted of the environmental the instrument this new context, will permit, which is delegated to the municipalities, for the important instrument more become an even in which the The manner of the OUV. preservation part. will change in is legally regulated protection a different, requires & Planning Act The Environment and a further shift in approach, integrated more local authorities policy and implementation towards built objects legal regime, the new will be seen. With of within the context be evaluated will increasingly the environmental through while their environment, of a national monument can plan the protection of the historic be combined with the protection environment. social control Each particular type of plan has built-in such as the possibility of bringing mechanisms, in advisory Committees (including the municipal for formerly Committee Spatial Quality Committee, and of offering and Heritage) Aesthetics Building STATE Structural Vision Structural and Space Infrastructure (2012) Structural Vision Structural and Space Infrastructure (2012) Vision Structural and Space Infrastructure (2012) COLONIES Spatial protection: Environment & Planning Act Act Spatial protection: & Planning Environment (introduction 2019) spring I, II and III and ‘Parten’ ‘Oorden’ Wilhelminaoord, (Frederiksoord, Oostvierdeparten, Boschoord, Westvierdeparten) Willemsoord, IV Ommerschans VI Veenhuizen The OUV is safeguarded by the municipalities in by The OUV is safeguarded zoning plans and and/or environmental various plans and underlying landscape development visions and and in sectoral guidelines, architectural per Colony overview An plans in specific policy areas. in the sub-sections. is provided to is expected & Planning Act The Environment this Through in the spring of 2019. enter into force made to the spatial planning changes will be Act, which will come into effect shortly after system, to the with regard the decision-making process the Through List. Heritage inscription on the World intends the Netherlands Act, & Planning Environment of regulations and hundreds dozens of laws to cluster environment, infrastructure, housing, space, regarding integrally at a new, so as to arrive and water, nature several Meanwhile, law. designed environmental new visions drafted have and municipalities provinces and Drenthe) Vision Environmental (for example Plan Environmental Municipal plans (for example Steenwijkerland), Vision Ommen, Environmental Colonies of Benevolence

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stakeholders the opportunity to participate, submit to ensure that heritage will be properly taken into a response, or raise objections to spatial visions or account in spatial considerations such as architectural plans. All these plans also include opportunities for guidelines, vision documents, heritage assessments, comment during a certain period, when they will be etc. Landscape development plans and landscape available for inspection. In practice, stakeholders will management plans will be drawn up with a specific often be involved and consulted at an early stage with focus on the landscape. The results of these studies regard to new environmental visions and plans and and visions can subsequently be anchored in the developments in an area. formal spatial planning instruments, such as the In addition, the State and the provinces possess future environmental visions and environmental a knowledge infrastructure of which all the parties plans, and could play a role in the assessment of can make use when making plans. At State level, the applications for permits for developments in an area. Cultural Heritage Agency of the Netherlands (RCE) has expertise in various cultural heritage fields, and it A new instrument that has recently been used in also possesses an extensive monument register, while the Netherlands is the Heritage Impact Assessment the National Restoration Fund offers knowledge and (HIA). This instrument is deployed to investigate the resources to provide guidance in restoration projects. effects of interventions on the OUV of World Heritage Furthermore, the Board of Government Advisors sites in case of developments where tension with the (including the Government Advisor on Landscape and OUV is anticipated. An HIA is not a formal spatial Water) offers expertise which can be used in case of planning instrument, but its results can be anchored complex design tasks. A comprehensive knowledge in legal planning instruments, as is the case with infrastructure is available at provincial level, for architectural guidelines, vision documents, heritage example at the Cultural Heritage Support Centre for assessments, etc. Municipalities, Monument Watch, Knowledge Centre Adaptive Re-use North, Heritage Homes, Landscape Spatial protection of the OUV Management Netherlands, and heritage organisations Colonies of Benevolence such as Het Oversticht and Hûs en Hiem. An analysis of the various policy documents and their legal translation shows that the proper safeguarding Instruments pertaining of the OUV of the Dutch Colonies of Benevolence to spatial framework is largely ensured in the current situation. This For large-scale spatial interventions the spatial is particularly reflected in the fact that the vast regime, in conformity with the existing EU directives, majority of the Colonies enjoy protected status, entails the obligation to perform an Environmental which in each case includes the OUV. In some cases Impact Assessment (EIA) procedure, in which it should be considered whether an adjustment the impact of various proposed decisions must be of the boundaries of the protected landscapes integrally weighted against each other. The EIA would be appropriate (Veenhuizen) or if technical obligation applies to large-scale interventions, for adjustments should be made regarding the protection example in the field of wind turbines, housing and in zoning plans /environmental plans (‘Oorden and industrial estates. In case of the construction or Parten’: Frederiksoord, Wilhelminaoord, Boschoord, widening of national (and also sometimes provincial) Willemsoord, Oostvierdeparten, Westvierdeparten). roads, railway lines, etc., a Planning Procedures Order In those parts that are not protected under the must be issued, which includes the completion of the regime of protected vllagescape or landscape, there EIA-procedure. are ensembles or buildings where in certain cases In addition, various instruments will be permit-exempt construction is possible. With the proactively deployed in the spatial planning system, introduction of the Environment & Planning Act, Safeguarding in legal 3 and policy frameworks 59 PROTECTED PROTECTED LANDSCAPES Ommerschans- (2011) Balkbrug (2005)Veenhuizen Frederiksoord- Wilhelminaoord (2009) 2 3 4 0 0 0 MUNICIPAL MUNICIPAL MONUMENTS 1 3 0 0 14 PROVINCIAL PROVINCIAL MONUMENTS 3 1 18 19 123 32 NATIONAL NATIONAL MONUMENTS in the Dutch Colonies of Benevolence in the Dutch Colonies of Benevolence COLONY heritage policy heritage II Wilhelminaoord, II Wilhelminaoord, Oostvierdeparten Boschoord, and Wateren IV Ommerschans VI Veenhuizen III Willemsoord I Frederiksoord The Dutch regime of heritage policy applies a division The Dutch regime of the system which differs from of responsibilities as well The State spatial planning. through protection authorised to and municipalities are as provinces The schedule monuments. of protected up a list draw monuments indicates the number of protected below national and Registered in the Dutch Colonies. than one of more consist monuments may provincial building: improved possibilities will be created to integrally to integrally possibilities will be created improved ​​ values protect and to integrally assess developments. It is considered is considered It assess developments. and to integrally on the basis of to offer the Colonies protection heritage’ in the ‘world provision the instructional the State in which case & Planning Act, Environment Further to the provinces. will issue an instruction place will take provision detailing of this instructional and municipalities in consultation with the provinces will then be covered property concerned. The entire ensuring proper provision, instructional this new by provision The instructional of the OUV. safeguarding and municipal in the provincial will also be reflected the municipal environmental visions, environmental plans and the assessment of (applications for) permits. environmental Colonies of Benevolence

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As from 1 July 2016, the Heritage Act will be in force. measures. Objective and professional periodic This Act replaces the 1988 Monuments and Historic inspections are offered to owners of monuments, Buildings Act. The Act regulates the protection of including the possibility of minor (emergency) national monuments (buildings and archaeological repairs. Subsequently, owners are presented with sites). The designation of protected townscapes a written report containing practical maintenance and villagescapes will be transferred to the new recommendations and a list of priorities. Environment & Planning Act. In case of any changes to these monuments and protected townscapes and nature conservation villagescapes, the municipality is responsible for In the Netherlands, European legislation for Natura decision-making and licensing, subject to the opinion 2000 sites is anchored in the Nature Conservation of the municipal Spatial Quality Committee and, in the Act (2017, successor to the Nature Conservation event of radical interventions, the Cultural Heritage Act, the Forestry Act and the Flora and Fauna Act). Agency of the Netherlands. If the national monument Through the Nature Conservation Act, certain species is located outside built-up areas, the province also has of plants and animals are protected. The new Nature an obligation to advise. Conservation Act stipulates that permits in respect In the case of provincial monuments, the of spatial interventions related to protected species Provincial Monument Regulation applies. Here, are granted by the municipality and assessed by the too, the municipalities are responsible for decision- provinces. A component of the Nature Conservation making and licensing. Where provincial monuments Act is the instruction to the provinces to realise the are concerned, the province has an advisory role. National Ecological Network (formerly the Ecological Main Structure – EHS). This network also comprises On the basis of the Heritage Act, the State is economic zones with nature and valuable cultural responsible for the designation of national landscapes. The State has transferred the budget for monuments, and lays down rules regarding the purchase, the organisation and the management archaeological monument care. On the basis of the of areas in the National Ecological Network to the Environment & Planning Act, a generic instruction provinces. Subsequently, the provinces determine the will be issued to municipalities to take into account actual development, and safeguard the incorporation the preservation of cultural heritage when adopting of the National Ecological Network in the provincial environmental plans, and a specific instruction will be environmental plan. In zoning plans, municipalities issued to the provinces for De Beemster, Stelling van carefully define what is and what is not allowed in Amsterdam, Limes and Nieuwe Hollandse Waterlinie a National Ecological Network area. All the Dutch (New Dutch Waterline) because these are relatively Colonies are affected by the National Ecological large-scale areas. It is considered to offer the Colonies Network. Unlike Natura 2000 sites, the National of Benevolence similar protection on the basis of Ecological Network does not cover ‘external effects’. the instructional provision ‘world heritage’ in the Environment & Planning Act.

monument watch In the Netherlands the Federation Monument Watch is established, with a Foundation Monument Watch per province. In the provinces of Drenthe, Fryslân and Overijssel, these provincial Monument Watch branches contribute to the preservation of monuments by taking and encouraging preventive Safeguarding in legal 3 and policy frameworks 61 MUNICIPALITY Municipal Environmental Municipal Environmental Vision Environmental Plan Environmental Municipal regulations Permits Environmental Designation municipal monument PROVINCE Provincial Regulation Regulation Provincial Impact Environmental Assessments Designation provincial monument Provincial Environmental Environmental Provincial Vision STATE Environment & Planning Act Environment Decree Environment Quality Decree Environmental activities in the Decree environment in the buildings Decree environment Act Heritage Act Conservation Nature Impact Environmental Assessment world Instructional provision heritage Instructional provision villagescape/ protected landscape Designation national monument National Environmental Vision National Environmental LEGAL LEGAL POLICY responsibilities responsibilities FRAMEWORK INSTRUMENTS Starting from 2019, the new framework leads to the the new framework 2019, from Starting overview: following Colonies of Benevolence

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3.2.2 Outline of spatial and heritage and Merksplas Colony, because the areas have been policy in Flanders identified as areas of supraregional value.

In Belgium, the Flemish Region is responsible for the The Municipal Decree (15 July 2005) and the protection of immovable heritage, the monuments, Provincial Decree (29 December 2005) govern the archaeology and the landscape. In the Flemish mandatory submission of municipal decisions to the decrees for designation as protected landscape, province, and of provincial decisions to the Flemish spatial structures as well as heritage values and Government. The higher government layer has cohesion are safeguarded. This designation also the possibility to decide to suspend if, for example, affects the spatial implementation plans of the contradictions arise with development plans or province and the municipalities. The decisions to implementation plans of a higher level. Suspension is protect as monument or to protect as landscape are also possible if a decision is found to be inconsistent incorporated in all spatial policy frameworks, policy with directly effective standards from other policy plans and management plans. In 1999, the Colonies of areas than spatial planning (also including heritage Wortel and Merksplas were recognised as protected policy). In case of suspension, the municipality landscape, and many of the historic buildings in or province can take a new decision. In this way, this protected landscape enjoy monument status. decisions on government levels are integrated from The protection is currently covered by the Flemish high to low. Moreover, the balance of interests Decree concerning the immovable heritage (‘het between the heritage and spatial quality and other Onroerenderfgoeddecreet’) of 12 July 12 2013, which interests is thus controlled. was amended on 4 April 2014. In a decision of 16 May 2014 (‘het Onroerenderfgoedbesluit), the Flemish A lower authority may take a decision that conflicts Government set out the details of the implementation. with a development plan or implementation plan of the higher level (for example, when it is judged spatial protection obsolete), but only if the higher level has issued Since 1980, spatial planning in Belgium has been written agreement and if it takes place in or following the responsibility of the region (including the a plenary meeting about the plan for which approval Flemish Region). Spatial legislation in Belgium was is required. restructured by the ‘Decree on the Organisation of Spatial Planning’ of 18 May 1999. The decree For interventions that affect spatial planning, the introduced the Spatial Development Plan and Flemish Codex RO decides whether a permit is the Spatial Implementation Plans. The region, required. The municipality must issue the urban the provinces and the municipalities can draw up development permit. A number of interventions are development plans and implementation plans. The exempt from the licensing obligation, for example spatial implementation plans should comply with the small detached buildings and small roofless structures. policy options laid down in the development plans. On For some interventions the licensing obligation has 25 April 2014 the Flemish Codex Spatial Planning was been replaced by a notification requirement, for amended. example for the installation of a large window, interior renovations or the construction of small annexes. In general, the subsidiarity principle applies: a government acts in respect of those subjects that In addition to the urban development permit, an are best attended to at the level concerned. It was environmental permit is also required for certain decided, for example, to draw up a Provincial Spatial interventions. On 23 February 2017, the environmental Implementation Plan (PRUP) for Wortel Colony permit will come into effect (the implementation Safeguarding in legal 3 and policy frameworks 63 items of the architectural heritage; items of the architectural plantings with heritage value; involving research preliminary in the soil; interventions excavation; an archaeological items. affecting protected Advice regarding applications for demolition of applications for demolition regarding Advice or clearing of woody of trees on felling Advice Dealing with notifications of archaeological of the commencement of notifications Receiving action in or permission for any Granting — — — — — — — — — — landscape and archaeological) in Flanders. This in Flanders. landscape and archaeological) https://inventaris. on the website is available inventory . Inclusion in the established onroerenderfgoed.be authorities with a administrative provides inventory a duty state to for the items inventoried, duty of care an activities have if their own to investigate reasons and taken, are measures impact and which protective a duty inform to indicate the inclusion of objects in to or rent of ownership, in case of transfer the inventory lease. a municipal urban In case of changes to the heritage, In this connection, permit is required. development a binding advice the municipality is obliged to request This agency is Agency. Heritage the Flanders from respect of: qualified in The heritage values are protected by the binding by protected are The heritage values in addition to Agency, advice of the Flanders Heritage the spatial through enjoy they already the protection implementation plans. plans and structure municipalities can be designated as As of 2017, They can also heritage municipality. immovable unite with other municipalities in a recognised heritage authority. intermunicipal immovable heritage municipality immovable A recognised assumes the authorities of the Flanders Heritage heritage in its of the immovable in respect Agency and the the city of Hoogstraten now, Until territory. any not expressed have municipality of Merksplas of the the protection For ambition in this direction. The definitive definitive definitive definitive PROTECTED PROTECTED LANDSCAPE protection as protection protection as protection landscape (1999) landscape (1999) 3 14 MONUMENTS heritage policy heritage WORTEL COLONY V V COLONY COLONY VII VII COLONY MERKSPLAS The Flanders Heritage Agency of the Flemish Region of the Flemish Region Agency The Flanders Heritage of the with the inventory been charged has explicitly heritage (architectural, immovable valuable entire The protection is currently covered by the Flemish by covered is currently The protection of immovable concerning the protection Decree heritage (‘het Onroerenderfgoeddecreet’) amended on 4 which was 2013, of 12 July (‘het 2014 May In a decision of 16 2014. April Onroerenderfgoedbesluit’), the Flemish government set out the details of the implementation. planning and environmental aspects will be evaluated aspects will be evaluated planning and environmental will be simultaneously upon application. The applications Counter All-in-one the ‘Service submitted to one service, followed Aspects’ (Omgevingsloket), for Physical Permit of consultations. and one round one public enquiry by In Wortel Colony and Merksplas Colony, the following the following Colony, and Merksplas Colony In Wortel protected: monuments and landscapes are An analysis of the various policy documents and An analysis of the various of the that the OUV reveals their legal translation properly is already Flemish Colonies of Benevolence as protection The decisions regarding safeguarded. been as landscape have monument and protection policy in all spatial policy frameworks, incorporated plans and management plans. decision for the environmental permit was approved approved permit was decision for the environmental 2015). This type of permit will on 27 November permit. and environmental the planning replace Colonies of Benevolence

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OUV is a recognition as intermunicipal immovable up management plans for immovable heritage and heritage authority no added value and not necessary. for heritage landscapes. This releases them from the obligation to apply for separate permits for the works Apart from the established inventory of immovable incorporated in the management plan. Management heritage, a landscape atlas is available which contributions can be obtained from the Flemish provides an overview of historical landscape government. These may consist of heritage grants features, structures and entities. Included in the in respect of management, research allowances for atlas are ‘anchorages’, landscape ensembles which carrying out studies and drawing up management are particularly valuable from a heritage perspective. plans, and project grants for establishing collaboration Landscapes can be demarcated as Heritage agreements and management agreements, and for Landscapes in a spatial implementation plan drawn up carrying out awareness-raising and research projects. by a municipality, a province or the Flemish Region. This means that the measures for the preservation of The Decree concerning the protection of immovable the heritage values and the heritage characteristics heritage contains measures to impose administrative are incorporated in the spatial planning regulations. or judicial penalties in respect of actions or omissions, There are legal consequences attached to Heritage and to force offenders to carry out restorations and landscapes. These are determined through the spatial pay damages. The OUV in the Flemish Colonies is planning regulations in the spatial implementation properly safeguarded on the basis of the Decree plan concerned. concerning the protection of immovable heritage, and through the inclusion of heritage values and spatial Summarised, an inventory can be made of immovable quality in the Provincial Spatial Implementation heritage (incorporated in a scientific inventory, Plans. Since 1999, Wortel Colony and Merksplas but without legal consequences); it can be defined Colony have been recognised as protected landscape, (incorporated in the inventory and also ‘defined’ via a and several of the buildings are protected as legal procedure, with certain legal consequences for monuments. the owner and manager) and protected (remain, at the very least, in the same state as at the time of the monument watch protection). In 1991, Monument Watch was founded in Flanders in order to encourage the maintenance of valuable Protection can be focused on a monument, a cultural historical heritage. Besides an overarching Flemish heritage landscape, a townscape or a villagescape office, there are five provincial offices and one office and an archaeological site. For each of these kinds for sailing heritage. Monument Watch conducts of protection, a transitional zone can be established periodic inspections and draws up comprehensive in order to support the heritage value. In case of reports with concrete recommendations for protected immovable heritage, the Flanders Heritage maintenance, repair and preservation of the building Agency specifies the heritage values on the basis of or the interior. Membership applies per heritage a visit to the site. Protection has legal consequences object owned. In the lease agreement for the Large for the owner or another holder of legal rights: the Farm (owned by the municipality of Merksplas), active and passive preservation principle (taking Kempens Landschap has included the provision that managing and protective measures and refraining future operators must have an annual audit carried from disfiguring or damaging activities), the licensing out by Monument Watch and that this report should obligation in case of interventions, a demolition ban remain ‘empty’, i.e. free from issues. and an information obligation in case of transfer of ownership. The owners and the managers can draw Safeguarding in legal 3 and policy frameworks 65 participation in decision-making participation nature conservation nature In addition, the authorities employ provincial provincial In addition, the authorities employ and municipal Committees for spatial planning and for the Flemish and ‘Gecoros’), (‘Procoros’ Council Urban Advisory the Strategic region composed of are These bodies Planning (SARO). in the area. stakeholders of various representatives Every citizen may submit comments and objections submit comments citizen may Every plans urban development the various of in respect under the decisions, protection for example, and also, The plans will Decree, and the Nature Act Heritage during a certain for public consultation be available period. Comments or objections can be submitted the results deciding authority takes The in writing. of the public consultation into account and adjusts the government this, Following the plan, if required. adopts the plan. definitively In Flanders, the European legislation on Natura legislation on Natura the European In Flanders, of 21 October in the decree 2000 sites is laid down and the natural conservation concerning nature 1997, Journal: 10 (publicationenvironment Belgian Official of 15 1998). In addition, the Species Decree January specifies This decree 2009 applies in Flanders. May in protected which species of animals and plants are and which legal consequences are the Flemish Region, In addition to this, status. attached to this protected provides 1976 February of 16 Decree the Belgian Royal plants. for certain wild-growing measures protective Colonies of Benevolence

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→ Frederiksoord (I), colony house (1818) (J.V.L.) Safeguarding in legal 3 and policy frameworks 67 Colonies of Benevolence

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4 Organisation Colonies of Benevolence

The Colonies of Benevolence are nominated as a in the greatest possible spirit of collaboration and to transnational serial cultural landscape site. The present the different developments. The objective is Dutch and Belgian governments (as member states ‘unity in diversity’: unity is the central principle, but of UNESCO) are responsible for the nomination, because of the different characters of the Colonies inscription, and recognition and for safeguarding the and diverging instruments in Belgium and the OUV. They are jointly responsible for a long-term Netherlands, diversity is desirable and also in part adequate implementation of the Management Plan for inevitable. The collectivity on an administrative and the site and for the timely compliance with procedural operational level has been achieved in the nomination requirements, allowing for verification by UNESCO phase and is laid down in the charter which was through periodic reports based on monitoring. signed by all the directly involved authorities. The decision-making process in the organisation Basic principles for the organisation are: is focused on consensus. Just like all the Colonies —— Taking into account the differences between are needed to be able to tell the whole story of the governing authorities and the Colonies; Colonies, this also applies to the decision-making —— Decision-making to focus as much as possible process: none of the parties in practice has the on consensus. overriding authority to take action as one player for the whole of the World Heritage site, even if spatial The Netherlands and Flanders have their own spatial and administrative law would formally offer that and heritage policy. The characteristics and customs opportunity. The guiding philosophy is focused on in the practices between the state and the region on gaining and upholding a joint commitment. The the one hand and provinces and municipalities on the diversity is what makes the story of the transnational other, differ in the two countries. The development serial site complete. of the Colonies in the period after 1825 was also The organisational structure of the Colonies of different. The organisation is committed to working Benevolence: Organisation 4

Colonies of Benevolence 69 Administratively ensuring the management Operational ensuring the management

Colony VII Colony AOE Flanders Belgium/ V AND VII COÖRDINATION COÖRDINATION WHC Colony V Colony UNESCO Focal points Focal RCE Netherlands Colony VI Colony Steering Steering Colony IV Colony

Colony III Colony Kempens Kempens Landschap I TO III I TO Colony II Colony Nodal point organisation Group Steering COÖRDINATION COÖRDINATION Shared site holder site Shared Colonies of Benevolence Colonies Drenthe Site manager/Implementing manager/Implementing Site Province of Province Colony I Colony Advice Advisory Committee for Advisory Committee Science, Education and Quality Stakeholders and local support and local Stakeholders Colonies of Benevolence

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→ Willemsoord (III), church and rectory (J.V.L.) Organisation 4 Colonies of Benevolence 71 Colonies of Benevolence

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4.1 ADMINISTRATIVE the Colonies. It is up to the authorities to control the DIRECTION AND management of the World Heritage site, in mutual FRAMEWORKS collaboration and together with stakeholders. The participation of stakeholders and users shall be In addition to the basic principles referred to above, given shape on the basis of a network approach, and the organisation has adopted the following starting will require tailor-made solutions per Colony. Such points: participation will comply with the requirements of Implementation as much as possible within laws and regulations in respect of spatial planning and the Colonies; heritage policy. Deployment of a combination of instruments; Support and commitment from stakeholders In the shaping of the organisation, the suggestions of as a basis for decision-making and the Upstream Assistance (opinion Michel Cotte on implementation. the recommendation of ICOMOS of UNESCO) and the opinion of the Dutch Expert Group Sequencing: Whenever possible, management measures will be ‘Bitter and Sweet’ (’Bitter and Sweet’) were implemented within the Colonies. Tasks associated incorporated. with the propagation of the meaning of the World Heritage site (communication), the control of the overarching spatial aspects, harmonisation and 4.2 SITE HOLDER coordination, monitoring and periodic reports that transcend the seven Colonies, are implemented To start with both member states are required by on an overall level and performed collectively, UNESCO to designate one body to act as ‘Nodal and managed by the site manager under the Point’ for all matters concerning the nomination of administrative authority of the steering group. The the World Heritage site and its long-term protection organisation assumes that a mixture of instruments following nomination. The member states opt for will be required to ensure adequate management. a shared siteholdership, with a Nodal Point, or site In addition to regulations, the use of other policy holder, designated in the Netherlands and Flanders. instruments is imperative: communication and This results in a shared siteholdership, which marketing, networking, development of programmes provides a simple, pragmatic and effective solution and projects, fundraising, financial management etc. to the organisational issue of a transnational serial This calls for powers of seduction, persuasiveness and site. By opting for a shared siteholdership, differences social commitment. The site management delegates in culture, working methods and regulations in both the application of these instruments to the party that countries are taken into account, with an appropriate is best equipped for this purpose. This requires a clear coordination mechanism in both the Dutch and the supervision of the implementation of measures taken Flemish context. by the parties for the whole of the site and for the The joint site holders can call on parties Colonies. concerned to fulfil their responsibilities in respect At present, the organisation is provided with of the nomination as a whole, or in case a party structure and content by the authorities involved. focuses too much on its own Colony (or Colonies). They are aware of the fact that support and active This means that the joint site holders have their own involvement of stakeholders in the area (landowners, responsibility towards the steering group (see section farmers, residents, education, etc.) is needed to arrive 4.2) and perform tasks on behalf of the steering group. at an adequate implementation of the management measures, and for the operation and maintenance of Organisation 4 Colonies of Benevolence 73 ); 3 ORGANISATION AT AT ORGANISATION LEVEL PROGRAMME steering group members in upholding group steering the support and and further reinforcing site Heritage enthusiasm for the World and in society among the stakeholders site Colonies Heritage (propagating World of Benevolence); them in the and involving governments and advice concerning field of knowledge the implementation of management. Heritage site (for example outcomes site (for example Heritage Impact Assessments (HIA) Heritage 4.3 Timely involving the steering group and group the steering Timely involving for national point of contact Being the first — — — — In the nomination phase, a steering group has been group a steering In the nomination phase, of the provinces of administrators consisting active is group and municipalities concerned. The steering and on the basis of consensus, collectively responsible, Heritage of the World protection for the long-term consists group nomination. The steering site following complemented by of all the signatories to the Charter, This continuation is in line of Overijssel. the province place has taken in which collaboration with the way will that the collectiveness and it ensures until now, and will propagated continue to be administratively the nomination. following also safeguarded remain In the Netherlands, the shared siteholdership is the shared In the Netherlands, which acts of Drenthe, with the province invested (Drenthe, Dutch provinces on behalf of the three Friesland) and the municipalities and Overijssel the siteholdership is laid concerned. In Flanders, which delegates of Antwerp, with the Province down Kempens Since 1997, Landschap. this task to Kempens has of Antwerp, on behalf of the province Landschap, and Merksplas Colony acted as manager of Wortel and has signed the charter for the nomination. Colony, the Landschap, In consultation with Kempens in control will assume general of Drenthe province countries. the two matters transcend the protection of the World Heritage site site Heritage of the World the protection adequate as a long-term as well as a whole, the OUV; of protection Plan in accordance Management implementation planning, with the cycle: evaluating monitoring, and execution, and adjusting; obligations towards reporting (six-year) UNESCO; and harmonisation, coordination the Colonies; between collaboration on the authorities and stakeholders of the site as a whole; level of sufficient concerned, the availability of for the implementation resources management measures; and, if necessary, group with the steering member of the steering with each separate the administrative to achieve group, of the harmonisation required safeguarding on the basis of UNESCO (working by the same ambition, principles and starting points) in the implementation of the Plan; Management the joint operation; in the field of of expertise and the presence that developments to ensure spatial quality, place on the basis of the OUV and take of the of knowledge with the employment heritage and design expertise; and developments to threats reaction that might affect the OUV of the World Drawing up the Management Plan; up the Management Drawing Ensuring the implementation of the Ensuring compliance with the periodic communication, Ensuring the required of relevant Ensuring the timely involvement with all the parties together Ensuring, Ensuring timely consultation and agreement of a vision for the development Promoting of knowledge the mutual exchange Stimulating identification of and Timely administrative Ensuring, on behalf of the steering group, group, on behalf of the steering Ensuring, — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — The site holder is charged with: The site holder is charged Colonies of Benevolence

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The steering group is responsible for: 4.3.1 Chairmanship —— Administratively contributing and ensuring the continuing and further reinforced support The steering group appoints one of its members as and enthusiasm for the World Heritage chairman and meets once or twice a year. On account site among stakeholders and in society of its management role in the shared siteholdership, (propagating World Heritage site Colonies the province of Drenthe will provide the first of Benevolence); chairman following nomination. —— Administratively safeguarding the harmonisation in the implementation of the Management Plan. In practical 4.3.2 Focal points Cultural Heritage terms, this concerns the harmonisation Agency of the Netherlands (RCE) of the management of all the individual and Flanders Heritage Agency Colonies, in order to operate on the basis (AOE) of a common set of objectives for the protection of the OUV; As far as UNESCO is concerned, the member state —— Timely administrative identification of and (the total of governing authorities in a country), is the reaction to threats and developments party responsible for the nomination, the inscription, that might affect the OUV of the World the recognition, as well as for the safeguarding of the Heritage site (for example outcomes OUV. Following nomination, in UNESCO terms this Heritage Impact Assessments); requires: an adequate and verifiable management of —— Administratively ensuring the raising of the the site. For each member state, a ‘Focal Point’ must necessary means for the implementation be designated, as a basis for compliance with the of the Management Plan, including the procedural requirements, particularly in respect of functioning of the organisation necessary periodic reports. In the Netherlands, this position in this respect, which is charged with is fulfilled by the Cultural Heritage Agency of the the practical implementation of the Netherlands (RCE) and in Flanders by the Flanders management measures. These management Heritage Agency (AOE). The RCE in The Netherlands measures are to be incorporated in an and the AOE in Flanders are requested by the steering implementation programme for the group to participate in the steering group as an overarching activities, to be adopted observer in an advisory role. In so doing they will annually, including a progress report; retain their position in respect of UNESCO. —— Administratively safeguarding the timely compliance with monitoring and reporting obligations towards UNESCO. 4.3.3 Implementing organisation at programme level

On an overarching level, the site holder is responsible for the operational implementation and preparation of the tasks that are part of his responsibilities. In brief: the operational management of the World Heritage site must be carried out. The site holder appoints an operational site manager, who can rely on a compact implementing organisation, which is fed by the organisations responsible for implementation Organisation 4 Colonies of Benevolence 75 Administrative direction and direction Administrative frameworks ORGANISATION PER COLONY ORGANISATION OF BENEVOLENCE of the (overarching) measures in the measures of the (overarching) Plan; Management that might affect the OUV developments timely site and Heritage of the World such focused on adoption of measures developments; and able to deal with risks and calamities. for complying preparations out practical of requirements with the reporting review; including the six-year UNESCO, uniform and harmonised possible the most implementation of: communication, development education, knowledge information and promotion and sharing, and marketing. Timely detection and identification of for is prepared Ensuring that the organisation and carrying site Heritage the World Monitoring site through Heritage the World Propagating 4.4.1 4.4 — — — — — — — — In Flanders, the Colonies are managed by Kempens Kempens managed by the Colonies are In Flanders, UNESCO requires that the member states ensure an ensure member states that the UNESCO requires management at the adequately equipped operational or cluster Colony Per Colony. of each separate level manager of Colonies (management unit), one Colony mechanism set up is designated and a coordination in a management for multiple Colonies clustered unit. The manner in which this is implemented may for each management unit and requires be different the administrative Below, approach. a tailor-made per structure and the organisational frameworks outlined. management unit are Landschap. This applies to both Wortel Colony and Colony This applies to both Wortel Landschap. unit Wortel management (the Colony Merksplas takes direction The administrative and Merksplas). and following from that the long-term that the long-term from and following of the OUV and protection preservation site in accordance Heritage of the World Plan; with sais Management of the management in and of the Colonies; separate Colonies of group with the steering implementation of the Benevolence, Plan and the responsibilities Management UNESCO; towards the from of stakeholders recommendations at overarching aligned Colonies are various group; to the steering and presented level and money) for the implementation Plan The implementation of the Management The implementation and harmonisation and, in consultation The alignment, coordination the signals and necessary, Ensuring that, where knowledge resources Raising sufficient (people, — — — — — — — — — — The programme office is staffed by both site holders by both staffed office is The programme The operational management entails: The operational and other organisations concerned. The size, as well as well concerned. The size, and other organisations the appointment of the site arising from costs as any are manager and the implementing organisation, 5.3). The programme identified in chapter 5 (Section as such areas, in specific expertise office boasts promotion communication, education, research, is not listing monitoring (this and/or and marketing support. The need administrative and exhaustive) regards in time as will vary on this expertise to draw attitude a flexible which requires intensity and extent, involved. on the part of the organisations in the Colonies. This complies with the UNESCO in the Colonies. operational of an adequately organised requirement and serial management for the transnational the the performance of his tasks, nomination. For on a compact implementing site manager can rely (programme office). This is necessary in organisation management operational the of tasks the fulfil to order serves The site manager also level. on an overarching of – and is accountable to – the joint as the extension site holders. Colonies of Benevolence

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place through the existing structures of the province Especially in the field of harmonisation, alignment of Antwerp and the Board of Kempens Landschap, and coordination, the nature of these tasks make in which the province and the municipalities them the direct responsibility of the site holder. are represented. In the Netherlands, alignment Consequently, they will be carried out under is sought with the structure as developed in the his direction. nomination phase in respect of the three management units located in the Netherlands, whereby the municipalities take the lead in orchestrating the 4.4.2 Organisational structure at implementation of the management measures. Colony of Benevolence level

The Colony management encompasses: In Colonies V and VII (Wortel and Merksplas) in —— Long-term preservation and protection in Flanders, the implementation structure is organised accordance with the Management Plan; by Kempens Landschap. —— Propagation of the World Heritage site through communication, education, knowledge In the Colonies I, II and III (Frederiksoord, (research and exchange), information, Wilhelminaoord, Boschoord, Oostvierdeparten and and promotion and marketing; Willemsoord), the coordination structure in which the —— Ensuring harmonisation, coordination, three municipalities (Weststellingswerf, Westerveld, involvement and interaction with Steenwijkerland) collaborate, will be upheld on an stakeholders, including citizen administrative and official level. The three provinces participation; (Fryslân, Drenthe and Overijssel) participate in the —— Providing sufficient resources (people, implementation of the Management Plan, partly knowledge and money) for the on the basis of delegation. At implementation level, implementation of management measures; the Foundation Society of Benevolence and the —— Ensuring timely detection and identification agricultural organisations are requested to participate of the effects of developments that in the implementation of the Management Plan in might affect the OUV, and adopting Colonies I and II. appropriate measures; —— Being prepared for and able to deal with risks Colony IV (Ommerschans) is managed by the and calamities; administrative department Ommen-Hardenberg, the —— Providing adequate information for the purpose joint implementing organisation for the municipalities of monitoring and reporting by the of Ommen and Hardenberg. At an administrative countries to UNESCO; level, a coordinating consultation structure between —— Sharing relevant information with the site both municipalities is provided. The province of management; Overijssel participates in the implementation of —— Encouraging the mutual exchange of knowledge the Management Plan through both municipalities and the availability of expertise in the field (probably on the basis of delegation). of spatial quality, so that developments take place on the basis of the OUV and with the In Colony VI (Veenhuizen), the Colony management employment of knowledge of the heritage is carried out by the municipality of Noordenveld, in and design expertise. close collaboration with the province of Drenthe and the national government. Organisation 4 Colonies of Benevolence 77 Involvement of stakeholders of stakeholders Involvement level on an overall COMMITTEE ADVISORY EDUCATION FOR SCIENCE, AND QUALITY 4.5.1 4.6 The involvement of stakeholders is organised is organised of stakeholders The involvement of spatial of decisions in the context In respect UNESCO requires particular attention being paid particular UNESCO requires and position of science during and to the role have scientists the nomination. So far, following in the nomination file on a temporary been involved up the OUV (thematic in drawing for example, basis, Analysis and the Comparative group), research the landscape analysis. agreements are tailor-made, and can be different per and can be different tailor-made, are agreements of the mode in respect The operating stakeholder. taking will be further professionalised, advisory group of the parties. into account the responsibilities In these is no feedback group. In Flanders there a seat in the have of the stakeholders most Colonies, Committee (TCC), chaired Coordination Technical all the In this Committee, Landschap. Kempens by inhabitants pre-discussed. decisions are For relevant evenings informational regular and local residents, held. are per Colony. At the level of the transnational and of the transnational the level At per Colony. group, the steering site and Heritage serial World in view of the fact not represented, are stakeholders or parts concerns mainly the Colony that their interest an Advisory is advised by group The steering thereof. education and quality. Committee for science, planning or heritage policy which also affect the forms of advice the statutory Colonies of Benevolence, and and AOE) RCE Points the Focal (including from complied with. consultation of parties concerned are the opportunity to submit given All the parties are comments and objections. views, INVOLVEMENT OF INVOLVEMENT AND STAKEHOLDERS LOCAL SUPPORT contact for the site holders and, on an site manager the overall level, operational the site holder; designated by on the approach the governments between or the to management within the Colony, of Colonies. cluster 4.5 In the Dutch Colonies, there are feedback are there In the Dutch Colonies, A coordination structure, or mutual agreements agreements or mutual structure, A coordination A colony manager who acts as first point of who acts as first manager A colony — — — — groups. In addition, regular informational evenings informational evenings In addition, regular groups. In the for inhabitants. held topics are on current place on a more consultation takes feedback groups, made concerning are and agreements basis, structural of the with the protection involvement each party’s the implementation of management measures, OUV, the contribution to subjects such as education and Such information, and the management of the site. The involvement of stakeholders takes place at the takes of stakeholders The involvement of Colonies. Colonies or clusters of the separate level of stakeholders in which the involvement The way to Moreover, itself differs per Colony. manifests group, diverse a very are the stakeholders with start foundations, farmers, land owners, comprising large education and individuals, inhabitants/private Per parties. visitors and interested users, numerous will be sought to inform way a tailor-made Colony them in the future and involve individual stakeholders Plan, in which implementation of the Management Consultation of roles. a variety (can) play stakeholders will continue in a similar fashion with stakeholders nomination, it is nomination. Following following to the Foundation role an active intended to grant organisations and agricultural Society of Benevolence management of Colonies I and II, in the Colony focusing on the implementation of the management measures. Per management unit there is room for tailor-made for tailor-made is room management unit there Per below: listed the structures within solutions, Colonies of Benevolence

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The steering group establishes an Advisory —— The site holder ensures timely identification Committee for science, education and quality, which of trends and developments with possible is to advise the steering group and the site holder. The consequences for the OUV of the Colonies steering group may invite the Committee to attend of Benevolence and proposes, if desired, meetings on an ad hoc basis in an advisory role. measures for protection. The Advisory Committee for science, education and quality can also issue advice to the colony The Colony managers observe and identify the effects managers on issues concerning the Colony which may of trends and developments, and take appropriate affect the attributes in that Colony and in the series of action if required. the Colonies of Benevolence as a whole. On this basis, the site holder can ensure timely Apart from expertise in the field of heritage and identification of developments that might affect the culture, the Committee will also have knowledge in OUV, and at an early stage enter into consultations the field of spatial and landscape quality. with parties concerned, seek advice, initiate or carry out research, or organise mediation. This early Where substantive advice is concerned, the Advisory detection makes it possible to explore alternatives and Committee for science, education and quality will discuss effective protective measures. have to conform to the management philosophy of the site management, in which the character On an overall level it is also important to ensure that of living landscapes and the unity in diversity are such initiatives are not only detected at an early stage, starting points. The Committee will give its views on but also to provide for an approach whereby the whether a particular subject should be considered OUV is safeguarded on the basis of an adequate transnational, nationally or locally. elaboration of such developments regarding spatial and landscape quality.

4.7 SPATIAL AND LANDSCAPE The Advisory Committee for science, education QUALITY CONTROL and quality has an active role in achieving this. The Committee will be asked to issue advice on The central task for the steering group and the site developments in the Colony territories that may affect manager on the overall level of the seven Colonies is the values and qualities in the whole Colony area. to preserve the OUV. Intrinsic to living landscapes For this purpose, the Commission will be composed is that initiatives may present themselves in one or of Flemish and Dutch experts on heritage, spatial more of the Colonies that may affect the quality of the quality, urban design and landscape. The members entire site. of the Committee may, if required, call on third parties to bring in specific expertise. In respect of the The organisational model comprises three levels contribution of Dutch experts, contact will be sought to ensure the early identification of initiatives that with the regionally operating quality teams from Het are important for the adequate protection of the OUV Oversticht and Hûs en Hiem. The Committee will of the Colonies: report to the site manager, who will present the advice —— The steering group, under the direction of the to the steering group. site holder, ensures timely identification of and reaction to administrative In addition to the advisory role of the Advisory developments with a potential impact Committee for science, education and quality, on the World Heritage site; the available experts of the parties in the steering group in the fields of, for example, heritage, spatial Organisation 4 Colonies of Benevolence 79 The member states bear the ultimate The member states energy production, etc. As regards the alignment etc. As regards production, energy is the group the steering member states, between should be reached. agreement platform where the the alignment within each government, For in the steering of that government representative the the alignment between For is responsible. group in instruments are there in each country, governments through and heritage policy, and nature spatial policy, – if can intervene levels which higher government conduct matters levels government – if lower desired policy. that does not conform to higher-level in a way (suspension, designation) such instruments However, of since the process used in practice, rarely are the between and consensus prevails coordination the consensus to reinforce In order governments. model, the site holder can decide to use positive for disputes, in resolving to help parties instruments by or carrying out research, initiating by example the use of additional advice or through seeking expert Committee for science, The Advisory resources. or its members with specific education and quality, also by can be called in as advisory body, expertise, further option is to resort A managers. the Colony avoided to mediation. Only as an ultimate and best may instruments and corrective controlling remedy, be employed. for the nomination of the Colonies responsibility World a serial and transnational as of Benevolence of the approval. and the maintenance site, Heritage , the consensus model is the basis for the In Flanders Landschap of parties with Kempens collaboration method in the Technical working and the standard Committee (TCC). This is also the Coordination when place basis on which consultations take occur with a potential impact or trends developments Landschap formally Although Kempens on the OUV. as it is recognised to overrule, the power does not have while all the parties, by an intermediary organisation in the form of a non- its position is also laid down authorities in relevant with all the organisation profit of Directors. the Board MAINTAINING CONSENSUS MAINTAINING 4.8 Even though consensus is the starting point, is the starting though consensus Even both between arise, nevertheless may disagreements levels the various and between countries the two or within the within countries, of government Differences level. mechanisms at Colony coordination departments of one and the also arise between may provincial, regional, (national, same government of the municipal) in the assessment of the interest nature, such as traffic, other interests heritage against Consensus in decision-making is the basic principle Consensus in decision-making is the basic parties that submit of the state of the collaboration to be a very this has proved the nomination. So far, will continue model, and the parties workable The nomination. in similar fashion following model contains a joint management organisational Colonies of group steering Committee (the seek parties) that may of all the state Benevolence of both and RCE) (AOE Points the Focal advice from with an advisory member countries (as observers to a yet and also from group) in the steering role Committee for science, Advisory be established advise the steering which can education and quality, on the basis of consensus, despite working If, group. parties about the state discussions arise between the site holder and the matters affecting the OUV, routes. seek advice via these two may group steering quality urban development, recreation and tourism and recreation quality urban development, of The objective meet once a year. and landscape, knowledge and exchange this meeting is to share in the developments regarding and experience in which these can be adequately Colonies and ways on cases that have anticipated. The meeting reflects to be and on developments year arisen in the past where The meeting aims, year. in the next expected to uniform approach at the most to arrive possible, with the focus on in the Colonies, initiatives future The basic principle of of the OUV. the preservation of a high spatial and the meeting is the preservation landscape quality. Colonies of Benevolence

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In The Netherlands, such a coordination mechanism Facilitating consultation between the is less unequivocally regulated. In the Netherlands, relevant authorities and the initiators the province of Drenthe does not hold the same of the developments. position as Kempens Landschap in Flanders. The Issuing research assignments. province of Drenthe will realise its coordinating Encouraging parties have a Heritage Impact role through bilateral contacts with the Dutch Assessment (HIA) or an expert partners. To this end, further agreements have been assessment (weighty opinion) drawn up. made in the Netherlands between provinces and Starting mediation. the municipalities on the consistent discussion of —— The site holder focuses on finding a solution issues and developments that transcend the level of to a problem or a disagreement which is a Colony or that may affect the OUV. It is desirable acceptable to all the parties; in this respect that the status of the Colonies is —— The site holder enters into consultation with the included in visions and policy instruments at Focal Point in Belgium or the Netherlands, national and provincial level. For example, the and places the subject on the agenda of the Netherlands integrates all its World Heritage sites steering group if the parties fail to come in the Environmental Law Decision, while following to a workable solution; nomination the provinces will definitively include the —— In extreme cases, if developments endanger the World Heritage status of the Colonies of Benevolence retention of the nomination by violating (including the OUV) in their environmental vision and the OUV, the steering group may deploy in the provincial heritage policy. controlling or corrective instruments.

The following steps are taken if discussion arises about developments or measures affecting the OUV: —— Upholding the consensus model is paramount; —— The site holder plays an intermediary role in consultation about developments and trends with a potential impact on the OUV; —— All the parties inform each other at an early stage on developments and trends with a potential impact on the OUV; —— The site holder has the mandate to react by: Initiating early consultations with parties concerned: setting the agenda for discussion with official and administrative parties responsible in the Colony concerned. Seeking advice from the Focal Points and the Advisory Committee for science, education and quality. Colony managers too may seek such advice. Make proposals to come to a workable solution. Main management 5 challenges 81

we nowadays consider normal in nowadays we consensus in respect of the approach and the of the approach consensus in respect partners as well of local and regional involvement in the landscape, and work as the people who live there. recreation enjoy and/or agriculture practice The approval. This will be continued following the Colonies of the history ambition is to propagate they have the way and their beginnings, from and accessible to this known and to make developed, visitors’ through This is achieved a wide audience. productions, theatre books, documentaries, centres, properly other media, but also by and many websites the and partly valorising protecting maintaining, The buildings. landscape with the representative of that a joint endeavour aware well Colonies are reflect to accurately is required Colonies the seven a to make prepared and the parties are this history, to in order and in the future, now joint investment, that marks a special this unique landscape preserve also for future part of Dutch and Belgian history, important, because This is considered generations. ​​ of the values many this period, from the society of both countries stem ​​ to remain wish these values countries and the two The comprehensive, people. visible also for young

COLLECTIVE FOR RESPONSIBILITY MANAGEMENT ADEQUATE Common and supported ambition

challenges challenges Main management management Main General introduction on how to deal with on how to introduction General 5.1 5.1.1 5 The Colonies of Benevolence attach great importance attach great The Colonies of Benevolence to a common and supported management of the the beginning of the landscape’. From ‘cultural nomination, much attention has been paid to This chapter indicates how to deal at an aggregate deal at an aggregate how to indicates This chapter (opportunities and threats) with developments level face. In the sections to have may that the Colonies this is further detailed the Colonies, to dedicated per Colony. face and to have may the Colonies developments be on the basis of should what the approach in each a common framework, with an elaboration in the sections. Colony Colonies of Benevolence

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→ Merksplas (VII), restauration of the Large Farm (D.B.) Main management 5 challenges 83 Colonies of Benevolence

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nationally organised experiment in poverty reduction Colony manager. The parties that are members of the in the Colonies of Benevolence was indeed a social steering group have made manpower and resources initiative of unprecedented scope, rooted in the available for the site management. The site holder principles of the Enlightenment. Current values is responsible for the adequate management of the as regards emancipation, self-reliance, freedom of World Heritage site as a whole. The site holder religion, right to education and care of the elderly launches the activities that preserve and improve in both countries have their basis in the Colonies. the quality of the World Heritage site and is also The experiment had a great impact on ideas about responsible for communication, coordination, the edification of the masses, upward social mobility monitoring and periodic reporting. The Colony and the role and responsibility of the state in this managers are responsible for the preservation and connection in 19th century Europe. To this day, the management of the property, the buffer zone, as well story of the Colonies remains very much alive and the as for managing the effects that may arise from a parties jointly wish to continue to propagate this. larger area of influence. The development of the four visitors’ centres on the basis of one joint concept The long-term strategy for managing all the Colonies is realised partly through private initiatives. In the is aimed at the preservation and reinforcement of the Dutch Colonies, consultation with feedback groups OUV. The development philosophy encompasses a takes place on a structural basis, and agreements strategy in which the cultural heritage cohesion of are made regarding each party’s commitment to the territories is a determining factor and a source the protection of the OUV, the implementation of of inspiration for the sustainable development of management measures, the contribution to subjects these areas. In Flanders, a ten-year master plan was such as education and information, and management drawn up for the rehabilitation (restoration/adaptive of the property. In Belgium, most of the stakeholders re-use/landscape restoration) of Merksplas Colony. have a seat in the Technical Coordination In the Dutch Colonies, the primary focus will be on Committee (TCC), of which Kempens Landschap the adaptive re-use of potentially vacant buildings, is chairman. Here, all the relevant decisions are before deciding on restoration. This requires adaptive pre-discussed. For inhabitants and local residents, re-use which is in line with landscape structures regular informational evenings are held in all the and the history (agriculture, agricultural innovation, Colonies. The Colonies of Benevolence involve care, housing, education, detention, recreation) of the owners, users and scientists in the development Colonies. and implementation of the site management and the safeguarding of the quality of the heritage. The management provides continuity in respect of the 5.1.2 A powerful organisation contribution of the environment and of specific based on collectiveness expertise in managing and preserving the quality of the heritage. The Colonies of Benevolence jointly coordinate and control the management of the seven Colonies as a whole. The province of Drenthe and Kempens 5.1.3 Government management Landschap (on behalf of the province of Antwerp) and protection act as site holder. Administratively, a steering group has been established under which the site holder In the Netherlands, the OUV of the Colonies of operates. An Advisory Committee for science, Benevolence is safeguarded through national policies, education and quality will (at the request of the latter and in Belgium (Flanders) through regional policies. two) provide advice to both the site holder and the Laws and rules are laid down in two systems: Main management 5 challenges 85 Rehabilitation of landscape, of landscape, Rehabilitation and buildings nature for management and Recognition maintenance of landscape and heritage Protection nature values nature Protection 5.1.5 5.1.6 5.1.4 From the beginning of the 21st century and based of the 21st the beginning From vision, both in Belgium and in the on a long-term been made have investments large-scale Netherlands and on behalf of the Colonies in the preservation of the landscape and of the structure rehabilitation In this connection, much attention is the buildings. and local business exploitation paid to sustainable and historical with the cultural in keeping activities, essence of the areas. international recognition received areas The separate and maintain the landscape they manage for the way won In 2011, Veenhuizen and heritage up till now. Commission and of the European the EDEN Award of Excellence. Destination labelled as a European was successful of local heritage is re-use The adaptive as a contributing to a position of Veenhuizen Because Westerveld destination. tourist sustainable for its identity heritage as a driving force uses cultural this cores, its and as a connecting element between heritage prize the BNG municipality in 2011 won Inhabitants Bank. the Dutch Municipal by awarded In the Dutch Colonies, parts of the property and property parts of the In the Dutch Colonies, Ecological the buffer zone belong to the National of the nature the protection which ensures Network, Colony, and Merksplas Colony both Wortel For values. an integral are and their protection values the nature In both of the landscape. status part of the protected been designated 2000 sites have Natura countries, Consequently, near the Colonies. in or (Veenhuizen) enjoy and reserves nature of network a of part are they level. both national and European at protection planning; The system of protection through spatial through of protection The system heritage policy. of the (immovable) The system — — — — At national level, the Colonies of Benevolence in Colonies of Benevolence the national level, At as ‘state recognised largely are the Netherlands (1999 and 2008), (Veenhuizen villagescape’ protected Wilhelminaoord (1999 and 2009), Frederiksoord and in (2011)), Balkbrug and Ommerschans (2009) heritage landscape’ cultural Flanders as ‘protected (1999 Colony and Merksplas Colony (Both Wortel at the highest protection and 2007)). This ensures or villagescape’ protected A ‘state possible level. heritage landscape’ entails cultural a ‘protected of an heritage value of the special cultural recognition and protecting of preserving objective with the area, spatial quality of a place and the the characteristic require Spatial interventions landscape heritage. In the quality. of the existing examination careful are and villagescapes townscapes Netherlands, a municipalities through the by spatially protected Heritage) Cultural zoning’ Value (for example ‘dual is permit in the zoning plan. An environmental or demolish within a protected to (re-)build required owners In Flanders, or villagescape. townscape the landscape in obliged to keep and managers are landscape in a proper heritage cultural a protected carrying out maintenance and preservation by state, buildings the representative In both countries, tasks. components are and these monument status enjoy Since 2000, in the landscape structure. protected of landscape structures restorations large-scale A total of 232 been taking place. and buildings have on protection buildings and building ensembles enjoy In case of unexpected the basis of a monument status. occurring that might affect developments large-scale an HIA is to be carried out in this respect. the OUV, into account The outcomes of the HIA will be taken in decisions about the location and implementation of the development. In addition, the nature values are protected by by protected are values In addition, the nature 2000. such as Natura legislation European Colonies of Benevolence

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are actively involved and are enthusiastic participants The iconic buildings are protected by the designation in processes and projects. In 2014, Kempens as protected townscape and villagescape, protected Landschap won the Europa Nostra Award in the landscape, or on the basis of the monument status category ‘dedicated service’. The jury stated that, since of the respective buildings and, in consequence, the the adoption of the European Landscape Convention, effect on spatial decisions. A number of these objects 10 years ago, it had hardly witnessed a more effective are in the course of restoration and adaptive re-use example of the expression of the European vision. is sought, in line with the history and functions (agriculture, agricultural innovation, care, housing, education, detention) in case of existing or imminent 5.2 STATE OF CONSERVATION vacancy. Adaptive re-use with recreational functions is a relatively recent phenomenon. Furthermore, in recent years restorations of 5.2.1 Maintenance and management characteristic elements in the structure of the Colonies of the attributes have been carried out. This not only applies to objects (for example, the Large Farm in Merksplas Colony The most important physical attributes of the and the restoration of waterworks in Veenhuizen), Colonies of Benevolence are: but also to typical structures (for example landscape Basic typology of the free and unfree structures and ‘wijken’ in Veenhuizen and planning Colonies of Benevolence; of hedgerows in Merksplas Colony). The Structure of roads, planting, water structures, the applied measurement system, and the grid of the buildings; 5.2.2 Planning of management and The Iconic buildings which are representative maintenance of the experiment of poverty reduction and its ongoing development. Management and maintenance are regulated in a variety of ways. In the sense of protection by The basic typology of the Colonies is largely visible means of zoning plans and environmental plans of in the landscape on account of the spatial structures municipalities (10-year cycle), including the protected of the free Colonies, with ribbon developments townscapes, villagescapes and landscapes if necessary, and small plots, and of the unfree Colonies, with but also in accordance with the regular planning a central institution and sizable lands. Everywhere, trajectories in respect of, for example, municipal this structure was laid down in spatial plans, plans green plans and water management. The owners of for roads and waterways, and nature plans, and monuments have a maintenance obligation, and in it is largely protected as townscape or villagescape this respect the periodic services of the Monument and landscape. Watch is at their disposal. This applies to both the Netherlands and Flanders. The preservation of the landscape structure calls for regular management and maintenance. This is provided for in the regular management and maintenance programmes (to which budgets are allocated) of the road authorities, water authorities, organisations for the management of landscapes and sites, or it is part of the regular management programme of the owners. Main management 5 challenges 87 DEALING WITH TRENDS WITH TRENDS DEALING AND DEVELOPMENTS 5.3 , for example, changed , for example, preferences Housing of agriculture in scale and innovation Increase business activity does not put a cases, In most In the Colonies, analyses have been carried out analyses have In the Colonies, that might and developments the trends regarding Colonies affect the OUV and the spatial quality of the deemed or trend each development For or later. now possible management tasks and measures relevant, In the figure, been articulated. have to be taken listed. are investigated measures and the trends years, in recent These changes not only occurred throughout or lesser extent but took place to a greater and The organisation of the Colonies. the history adapted always management of the Colonies were Changes took place in the foundation accordingly. particularly and phase of the Society of Benevolence, and the in the periods of further evolution (unfree Institutions of the State establishment Colonies). That (free Colonies) and privatisation of ‘living landscapes’ is very the concept is why for the Colonies. appropriate to which the with family sizes and the extent tied were or official, vagrant as colonist, residents were Houses within the Colony. to the institutions to adapt them to new modernised and enlarged houses and industrial In some places, requirements. built. demolished and new ones were buildings were plans for building homes and are there Currently not The Colonies are accommodations. recreational so the trends situated in densely populated areas, and can be managed effectively. gradually evolve of at the establishment one of the objectives was and continues to develop Agriculture the Colonies. is an important driving force use agricultural current it takes as long as for management and preservation, with the heritage values. place in harmony Colonies, In the unfree on the Colonies. pressure strong impact, has an important the Judiciary the use by particularly because of the changes in penitentiary use, of buildings. or partial closure expansion Long-term objectives protection protection objectives Long-term and rehabilitation 5.2.3 In Flanders, a ten-year master plan was drawn drawn plan was master a ten-year In Flanders, up for the rehabilitation (restoration, adaptive re-use re-use adaptive (restoration, up for the rehabilitation Colony. of Merksplas and landscape restoration) focus will be on the primary In the Dutch Colonies, buildings, of potentially vacant re-use the adaptive adaptive This requires on restoration. deciding before which is in line with landscape structures re-use innovation, agricultural (agriculture, and the history education, detention, recreation) housing, care, of the Colonies. The long-term strategy for all Colonies is aimed for all strategy The long-term of the OUV and reinforcement at the preservation The main challenge for the in all the Colonies. the quality is to preserve Colonies of Benevolence new and to seek and incorporate of life in the areas philosophy The development economic impulses. in which the cultural encompasses a strategy and serves prevails of the areas heritage context as development, for sustainable as an inspiration the policy and in its cultural Drenthe by expressed of this province. Vision Environmental Colonies of Benevolence

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Over the last two centuries, traffic has increased in size, weight and character. The roads that were built in times of stagecoaches and wheelbarrows, now require careful management and maintenance. The nature and the layout of the landscape contribute very palpably to the experience of the free and unfree Colonies. A strong point of the Colonies is that their structure and composition have taken shape over the centuries, that they have been preserved and that they are still managed systematically. The Colonies were built on relatively poor and cheap soil and on grounds that were already state owned or could be easily purchased. Traces dating from the period preceding the Society of Benevolence are interesting for archaeological research. This is conducted in accordance with the scientific principles applicable. The heritage values, from the foundation of the Colonies up to the current functions, are protected by heritage policies.

Below, we have listed a number of developments in more detail and have highlighted the Colonies that require specific attention, and what management measures are to be taken in that respect. In separate paragraphs we will address the (limited) impact of climate change, possible calamities, the pressures from recreation and tourism, and the vision of the site holder on how to deal with these developments. In the four sub-sections, these trends and measures are further detailed for each Colony.

5.3.1 Spatial developments

Above we have given a rough description of the developments. The vision of the site holder is that the Colonies are ‘living landscapes’, where developments remain possible, provided they are neutral or supportive of the OUV. The table below shows certain categorised developments, and indicates in which Colonies they have been occurred. Main management 5

challenges 89 X X X X X X X X X X X VII X X X X X VI X X X X V X X X X X X X X X X X X X X IV IN COLONY X X X X X X III X II X I X X X X X X X X X X X CHARACTERISATION New construction use Changing penitentiary buildings re-use Adaptive innovations in scale, increase Further traffic agricultural heavy Pressure Vacancy buildings agricultural re-use Adaptive Modernisation, expansion and accommodations Campsites Visitors’ centre Visitors’ structures route Reinforcement water structure Restoration roads Redesigning parking facilities Building New utilities of forestry/enhancement Diversification heath in soil values Archaeological Improvement flow and quality flow Improvement Logging and replanting avenue trees avenue Logging and replanting Sustainable energy transition transition energy Sustainable in house style Differences signposting TREND Business development use agricultural Changed Residential development Residential and tourism Recreation Comprehensive water management Comprehensive and traffic Infrastructure and archaeology Heritage Nature and landscape Nature Climate changes, calamities changes, Climate interventions Cumulation (small-scale) Colonies of Benevolence

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5.3.2 Management measures

The trends identified lead to management measures to anticipate them at an early stage, to see to it that they will not adversely affect the OUV, the heritage and the spatial quality in a broad sense. In this respect, the management philosophy is applicable (the Colonies are a living landscape, they exist by the grace of unity in diversity, developments are possible if they are in line with the original functions) and much attention is paid to overarching and local interests. The majority of management measures is already included in the existing policies of municipalities, provinces, region and state, and is incorporated in the existing management, which is carried out by themselves or by agencies, water authorities, site managers and owners. For further specification we refer to the sub-sections of this Management Plan. The Colony managers and the site manager monitor trends and identify relevant developments. These developments will be monitored and discussed in consultation between governments, stakeholders and owners. Specific management measures are provided to deal with a limited number of developments. These are specified in the four sub-sections. Below, we provide an overview of the most striking measures, and the Colony in respect of which they are taken. Main management 5 challenges 91 I III III VI VI IV IV IV VI VI VI VII VII VII VII VII I, II I, II, IV III and V V and VII V and VII COLONY I, IV, V, VI, VII V, I, IV, SPECIFIC MANAGEMENT MEASURE SPECIFIC MANAGEMENT Unified signs and logos Unified signs and Cultural heritage value in environmental policy and in environmental value heritage Cultural vision culture Jewish facilities site Research solar panels, wind mills Incorporation Types of landscape more in line with Colony in line with Colony of landscape more Types landscape landscape structures Reinforcing link Wortel-Merksplas Ecological sight axes Restoration moat and embankments Restoration Improvement cycle network cycle Improvement value heritage cultural Integration Construction new fens and pools parking signposting, Information centres, Incorporation new construction Sluice V new construction Sluice Incorporation homes recreational Incorporation Veldzicht Consultation about development vision Noorderveld up environmental Drawing Stable Quarantine re-use adaptive Proper industrial and incorporation zone Redesign Judiciary Spatial incorporation Land use buildings New use agricultural TREND Cumulation (small-scale) Cumulation (small-scale) interventions Heritage and archaeology Heritage calamities changes, Climate Nature and landscape Nature Recreation and tourism Recreation water management Comprehensive and traffic Infrastructure Residential development Residential Business development use agricultural Changed Colonies of Benevolence

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5.3.3 Climate change and to the (local) extinction of some specific species. environmental impact The damage to buildings caused by strong winds, thunderstorms and hail can mostly be repaired and Climate change is hardly a factor on a local/regional private parties who own the buildings are insured in level. Consequently, no environmental impact with a this respect. potential influence on the OUV can be identified.

On a local level, both dehydration and waterlogging 5.3.5 Recreation and tourism occur as a result of climate change, but these aspects are not a direct threat, because of the proper control The Colonies are attractive landscapes for recreation of available water resources and the management of in the region. The cultural heritage elements the water board. The control of the water resources appeal to descendants of colonists and other parties in the region is currently regulated by the water interested in Colony life. So far, this has not led to management infrastructure, the construction of which serious recreational pressure. In most Colonies, or had already been started in the years of the Society of in their immediate vicinity, there are opportunities Benevolence. for recreational accommodation, such as campsites, hotels, bed and breakfasts and group accommodations. Another potential threat for particularly the greenery The size of the flow of tourists and holiday makers is and the planting in the area is the increase of the limited. average temperature and shifts in the character of the An increase is expected following nomination. seasons. In the long term this could lead to changes in This increase in the number of tourists can be species and vegetation. comfortably accommodated in the area. The visitors’ centres (existing or anticipated in Colonies I to III, IV, All in all, the risks of climate change are adequately VI and V + VII) will expand and align their activities, regulated. and will also provide visitors with proper reception and directions.

5.3.4 Natural disasters, calamities and The existing infrastructure, including the recreational risk management infrastructure of (regional) walking, horseriding and cycling routes is sufficiently generous to allow for an In the areas where the Colonies of Benevolence increase in the number of tourists and holidaymakers. are located, there is no increased risk of floods or earthquakes, although strong winds, thunderstorms Consequently, the expected and projected growth of the and hail could cause damage to plantings and number of holidaymakers and tourists, including day buildings. This particularly applies to the avenue trippers, is not expected to negatively affect the OUV. planting and to solitary beeches, which are part of the original planting. Diseases pose a potential threat to the vegetation and the planting, for example tree diseases that threaten certain species of trees.

The damage to vegetation and planting can be compensated partially by a replanting obligation, with the exception of tree diseases which might lead Main management 5 challenges 93 Capacity and resources Costs regular procedures laws laws procedures regular Costs including and regulations, planning processes government

and central functions: this concerns an and central input per site holder of approximately over of 2 FTEs), spread 1 FTE (total 5.4.4 5.4.3 Structural deployment of staff for establishing for establishing of staff deployment Structural organisation; the programme office with both site holders Programme After having obtained the UNESCO World Heritage Heritage obtained the UNESCO World After having (on an and resources of staff the deployment status, components: of three annual basis) consists 1 The protection of the Colonies of Benevolence as Benevolence of the Colonies of The protection on the site is based largely Heritage World future governments. by the attributes offered of protection and landscape This encompasses structures and specific buildings to be protected features, regulatory on the basis of existing elements, green heritage applicable to spatial planning, framework adopt This implies that governments nature. and/or and safeguard those in plans, policies and incorporate the existing of attributes through the protection exemptions. notifications and of permits, instruments the borne by are for this planning process The costs associated with the The total costs governments. tasks, administrative implementation of these regular agencies involving by incurred including expenses and consultants in carrying out these activities (for the of involvement the in the Netherlands example and Heritage Aesthetics Committee on Building Quality Team, Committee, the Monuments and/or not listed and are the governments born by etc.), are Plan. of this Management in the context separately costs are borne by the initiators of the four visitors’ the initiators of the four visitors’ borne by are costs it is important to bear in mind In Flanders, centres. structure within the funding do not fit that these costs associated with plans. Costs visitors’ centres visitors’ centres Costs Costs regular management and management regular Costs maintenance attributes RESOURCES implementation of management measures; including management and coordination, to monitoring and the obligations related periodic reporting; for parties in the arrangements separate to finance activities. to be used area 5.4.2 5.4.1 Parties jointly bear the costs for the overall for the overall jointly bear the costs Parties each have The Flemish and Dutch governments The following basic principles apply to the The following the for costs bears its own Each Colony 5.4 The maintenance of roads, roadsides, avenues, avenues, roadsides, The maintenance of roads, private of land (agriculture, owners Private — — — — — — funding and distribution of the costs of the Colonies the costs of funding and distribution site: Heritage as a World of Benevolence The costs associated with the visitors’ centres in associated with the visitors’ centres The costs of the design concept will of the development respect of subsidies obtained. The translation by be covered this concept into buildings and equipment will require the initiators and possibly subsidies from investments operating The regular authorities. governing from The costs of regular management and maintenance of regular The costs the managing of the attributes shall be borne by buildings. of land and/or or the owners organisations included and parts of the landscape are waterways management and maintenance in the regular and boards water of municipalities, programmes such as the Forestry management organisations Kempens Commission, Flemish Land Agency, Society of Benevolence the Foundation Landschap, of the Netherlands. and the State part of the attributes that are and buildings owners) the regular will ensure of the Colonies of Benevolence management and maintenance of these properties. Colonies of Benevolence

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the competences of site management, (2016–2018) requirement of people and resources for covering overall control and coordination, maintenance and management of the Colonies, and communication and PR, monitoring and for the realisation of the nomination. This deployment reporting to UNESCO, and administrative of ‘incidental’ resources illustrates the readiness of support. The tasks of the site manager are governments to invest: specified above in chapter 4. —— Restoration various buildings Frederiksoord For each management unit, a Colony manager and surroundings (Colonies I, II and III), is appointed. The extent of this function several millions; depends on the complexity and size of —— Restoration sconce and surroundings the management unit, but amounts to Ommerschans, ¤ 250,000 (largely approximately 0.25 FTE per Colony. The completed); tasks of the site manager are specified —— Restoration programme Veenhuizen, dozens above in chapter 4. of millions (largely completed); 2 Structural means to finance activities, —— Restoration programme Merksplas, dozens of centralised/decentralised; millions (ongoing ten-year programme); Centrally calculated annual costs are estimated —— Drenthe programme Adaptive re-use at ¤ 150,000: costs for research and Characteristic Property; monitoring, reporting and visits UNESCO, —— Drenthe programme Colonies of Benevolence; meetings of steering groups and working —— State resources ‘Character in Focus: Vision groups, costs website visits, PR and for Heritage in Spatial Planning’ for central provision of information, costs Colonies of Benevolence. Total of Advisory Committee for science, education ¤ 400.000, of which ¤ 50.000 and and quality, etc. The functioning of this ¤ 117.000 contributed recently; Committee, which serves to safeguard the —— State restoration resources in the Netherlands spatial quality of the Colonies, may require and Flanders. additional budget, to be allocated centrally. Decentralised costs depend on the complexity of the Colony. It is estimated that each Colony 5.4.5 Distribution key costs arising requires approximately ¤ 15,000 in respect from Management Plan of research and monitoring, decentralised provision of information (linked to The distribution key for the costs of the Management communication and information) and PR, Plan is related to the costs of the joint overall and the coordination and harmonisation organisation structure, including structural resources with local and regional parties, including needed at that level for research and monitoring, the feedback group. meetings of steering groups and working groups, 3 Incidental means for the funding of incidental website and central information provision, costs projects and research, centralised and/or Advisory Committee for Science, Education and decentralised. These are resources in respect of Quality, visits and meetings UNESCO, etc. In the which as a rule external funding is sought, for nomination phase, the distribution key employed was example in the form of grants. 33% for Flanders and 67% for the Netherlands. In the Netherlands, this distribution was extended to a Apart from these resources which can be structurally distribution over the provinces (approximately 20% allocated after having been granted UNESCO of the total amount for Drenthe, 10% for Overijssel World Heritage status, there is also a short-term and 3% for Fryslân) and the municipalities (ranging Main management 5 challenges 95 Staff functions and qualifications Staff

5.4.6 The functions within the programme office in respect office in The functions within the programme and management, communication of programme of filled at the level managers are PR and the Colony education. Staffing and university higher professional is further determined on the basis of job profiles, which focus on the adequate implementation of the tasks at hand. with a long track organisations professional Many and maintenance in terms of management record attributes. in managing the different involved are managers monitor the adequate The Colony implementation of the management and maintenance programme the with collaboration in ensure, and tasks – is – if relevant management, that knowledge of the day-to-day management in respect exchanged and maintenance of attributes. the membership of the Dutch Foundation Through exchange active the Netherlands, Heritage World in managing a World experience and of knowledge place. site also takes Heritage on research, techniques, management. This will also management. techniques, on research, of the capacities of contribute to the development at site level. stakeholders and staff that as per mid 2016 it is noteworthy Furthermore, and the Flemish and Dutch UNESCO Committees and the Netherlands of Flanders Points the Focal capacity building will jointly be setting up a strategic is an extension This programme programme. which was Programme, Action of the European of the Second Cycle the results following prepared (Source: 2012–2015. in Europe, Reporting of Periodic 2016). UNESCO, Today, in Europe Heritage World focuses on site The capacity building programme sites and Heritage of World administrators managers, their communication staff. knowledge and training knowledge The programme office is charged with office is charged The programme In the field of conservation of structures and structures of In the field of conservation periodically bringing these experts together for the together periodically bringing these experts of knowledge discussion of themes and the exchange objects, including green landscape elements, a great a great landscape elements, including green objects, of at the level is also available deal of knowledge and in the within the provinces the site managers, organisations and management regional various the Landschap, Kempens (Flemish Land Agency, Society of Commission, the Foundation Forestry and Archaeological Watch Monument Benevolence, Hûs en Hiem, Oversticht, Het Watch, Monument Heritage North, re-use Adaptive Centre Knowledge etc.). Netherlands, Landscape Management Homes, Committee one of the aims of the Advisory Finally, the Education and Quality is to harness for Science, manage the site. needed to properly knowledge The programme office and the site manager can The programme in the field and expertise call on the knowledge at the of heritage management which is available Agency Heritage Cultural national organisations Agency. and Flanders Heritage of the Netherlands regarding specific tasks have Both organisations and acquiring and sharing knowledge, research, and management, with issuing advice on restoration In addition, they sites. Heritage priority for World of the in the organisation involved explicitly are The in an advisory role. Colonies of Benevolence, has designated a Chief Government Netherlands and Flanders a Flemish (Rijksbouwmeester) Architect (Vlaamse Bouwmeester). Architect Government urban design and Both issue advice on architecture, also and in the Netherlands landscape and water, of Expertise the Centre Besides, on infrastructure. in the Netherlands and the Environment for Nature knowledge. and sharing of focuses on development from 3% to 10% per municipality). In Flanders, per municipality). In Flanders, 3% to 10% from of the 16.5% is approximately the distribution for 3.3% of Antwerp, total amount for the province each for the city of and 6.7% Landschap, Kempens and the municipality of Merksplas. Hoogstraten Colonies of Benevolence

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5.5 THE PROPAGATION OF THE promotion of the serial site. Local organisations, WORLD HERITAGE SITE private parties and individuals will be explicitly COLONIES OF BENEVOLENCE invited to participate in these activities and will be encouraged to establish initiatives themselves. Private The story of the Colonies of Benevolence, their parties will also have a role to play in the marketing of 200-year history, deserves to be heard. It is the story commercial services and products offered locally in of the search for solutions to poverty and of the and around the Colonies. The site holder will ensure makeability of man and the environment. This story that the overall story retains its value. and this quest are still alive today. It is not a closed chapter. The landscapes and buildings are worth The site holder aims at a collective responsibility for visiting and they bring the story to life. Moreover, these activities by governments, public and semi- the Colonies provide added value to companies and public organisations, private parties and individuals, organisations that have settled there. Many initiatives who all have an interest in the propagation of the have been established in the Colonies. These will be heritage. By maintaining good relations with these presented in an even better way, and they will also parties, the site holder will stimulate their awareness illustrate the allure of the heritage as a whole. The of their responsibilities in respect of their own part as story is about the Colonies of Benevolence as a whole well as the whole, and the proper assumption of these as well as about each separate Colony. Attention will responsibilities. be paid to both the positive and the negative aspects of Colony history, and a link will be established with contemporary (inter-)national social issues such as communication strategy poverty and care. The site holder will implement the communication strategy together with the future Colony managers The site holder aims to reinforce the already of the Colonies. This communication about the value existing communication, education and museum of the areas and their promotion was started at the infrastructure, to promote recreation and tourism time of collaboration in respect of the nomination in the Colonies, and to stimulate the public debate (in the Netherlands in 2011 at the time of inscription on poverty and poverty reduction. In this respect, on the Tentative List, and in Belgium in 2013) the site holder is working in line with the UNESCO and the joint decision in 2015 to nominate. This Education Strategy 2014–2021, with the Flemish communication strategy for propagating the heritage and Dutch policies on education and information, site Colonies of Benevolence will get a boost from with the efforts of www.werelderfgoed.nl and www. the moment of recognition by UNESCO, and will be erfgoedkaart.be and with the activities of regional and continued. In each of the separate Colonies there local managers of the Colonies or parts thereof. have been years of experience in communication, research, culture, education, information, promotion If the status is granted, the site holder will manage and marketing. Municipalities and provinces, tourist the brand ‘Koloniën van Weldadigheid’ (Colonies offices, educational and cultural organisations, of Benevolence) together with the UNESCO World historical societies and local history associations Heritage logo. A joint communication strategy will are active in this field. Book publishers, producers be followed and research, education, information, of theatre performances and events, as well as promotion and marketing will be stimulated. On entrepreneurs in and around the Colonies are also behalf of the public parties, the site holder will focus promoting the Colonies. During the nomination on the cultural, educational and informative aspects period, the communication efforts have been of the overarching story of the Colonies and on the intensified, and recognition by UNESCO will provide Main management 5 challenges 97 research and cultural education and cultural research Science, national and provincial archives and private and private archives national and provincial Science, into life in the conducting research individuals are by research this The site holder stimulates Colonies. offering facilities and making information sources if relevant results, Research possible. where available in the education, incorporated are and if possible, of the Colonies of information and promotion in the Colonies and, offered They are Benevolence. The accessible. made digitally as far as possible, Education and Committee for Science, Advisory field. In in this group Quality advises the steering and universities from researchers this Committee, and managers of archives organisations, research of education and information are in the field experts about knowledge They will discuss current invited. contribute efforts, the Colonies and the research to to scientific meetings and issue advice on how on the museum quality and on the utilise knowledge, of the historicvalues. preservation The Colonies have a joint communication policy The Colonies have for exhibitions, layout logo use, style, house (vision, The site the site holder. managed by audiovisuals), for the consistent holder is ultimately responsible in the nomination in as laid down story, overall of the with the administrators collaboration managers). the Colony Colonies (in the future: managers jointly The site holder and the Colony including information story, overall this propagate cohesion and appeal of the about the locations, tells its own addition, each Colony In Colonies. story as a part of the serial and transnational specific visitors can learn about the There, heritage site. and about usage, and the contemporary historical They can in the Colonies. the people who used to live the spatial structure the landscape, also experience high-quality supported by resources, and the nature, World status of a as befits the UNESCO (prospective) site. Heritage the ‘koloniën van weldadigheid’ weldadigheid’ van the ‘koloniën brand Because of the serial, transnational character character Because of the serial, transnational The cooperating governments are developing the developing are governments The cooperating ‘Koloniën into a brand. Colonies of Benevolence will Benevolence) (Colonies of Weldadigheid’ van the site be used as the main label, to be managed by Colonies the main label, the separate Under holder. van a sub-label. The main label ‘Koloniën will have be clearly recognisable will always Weldadigheid’ one will have Each Colony image and logo. as text sub-label, with its local which is consistent heritage of the recognition Following prominence. will logo Heritage the UNESCO World UNESCO, by be connected to the main label. Prior to nomination, designation will be added, which the Colonies’ own Werelderfgoed’ the ambition (‘kandidaat expresses site’). The trademark Heritage World – ‘prospective registered. images and logos has been for these text was of the nomination, work During the preparation in which of a house style carried out on the creation as well quality of a label and sub-labels, this layered also done This was be expressed, would as their use, to the enthusiasm with the aim of giving direction during the that emerged initiatives and the many nomination process. of the heritage, the communication must cover each cover the communication must of the heritage, as a whole. as the Colonies as well separately Colony the Colonies, between a view to the distances With that people will visit one or it is to be expected of the The consistency Colonies in one day. several is as a whole the Colonies of Benevolence of story In each Colony, their value. important to discover as of the Colonies is told, just story the overarching sufficient scope for its specific is given each Colony will be Visitors contribution within this context. the other Colonies to also get to know to visit invited story. that specific part of the a new impetus, also as a result of the efforts of the also as a result a new impetus, office of the site holder. programme Colonies of Benevolence

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The site holder stimulates the development of The site holder will continue to encourage the efforts cultural productions about the tradition of and life of visitors’ centres by facilitating consultations in the in the Colonies through consultation with cultural programme office with managers on harmonisation, organisations and private parties (such as literature exchange and increase of the material. The site holder publishers, theatre producers for performances). will offer free general information material in publicly Within the cultural policies of the participating accessible spaces in the Colonies. At overarching level governments, these activities can be supported. and local level respectively, the site holder and the Colony managers can outsource the production and exploitation of resources to independent organisations education and information and private parties, or have these activities carried out The historical value of the Colonies of Benevolence under license (to be issued by the site holder). The site will be presented to a broad audience by means of holder will ensure the proper use of names and logos. publications, facilities for remembrance and family research, events and expositions. This complies These activities will take place in collaboration with with the requirements and wishes in relation to the science, educational organisations, municipalities requested recognition as World Heritage site, as well and provinces, regional bodies for cultural education as with the obligations resulting from the Decree and information, historical societies and local history concerning the protection of immovable heritage of circles, and with the numerous volunteers who are the Flemish Region, and the requirement to provide active around the Colonies. Furthermore, links will information to the information system in accordance be established with European events such as Open with the Dutch Heritage Act. In previous years Monuments Day in the Netherlands and in Flanders. market parties, educational organisations and private associations have undertaken many educational and informative activities, for which they can also make promotion and marketing use of the material collected in the nomination phase. With the brand ‘Koloniën van Weldadigheid’, the site During the preparation of the nomination in 2015, holder and the Colony managers encourage visits collaboration was organised, with the support of the to the Colonies and contribute to the promotion of governments, to inform the general public about the the area in favour of tourism and recreation, and to Colonies. Resulting from this, a close collaboration the marketing of services and of (regional) products has been established between the Foundation Society offered by entrepreneurs in the Colonies. In recent of Benevolence (Frederiksoord), the National Prison years, the museums and information centres have Museum (Veenhuizen), Kempens Landschap (Wortel welcomed a growing number of visitors, while and Merksplas), and the Association Ommerschans the many people visiting the publicly accessible (Ommerschans). These four parties are setting landscape remain uncounted. The visitors contribute up visitors’ centres in existing or new facilities, to the generation of income for the various owners, and are producing material for this purpose. The managers and shopkeepers, and for enterprises and visitors’ centres make use of a variety of resources facilities established in and around the Colonies, and to fulfil their function, in the form of printed media, in that way contribute towards the preservation and audiovisuals, exhibitions and events. prominence of the heritage. The site holder and the Colony managers jointly work on the promotion and marketing of the areas, together with national and regional organisations that are requested to include information on the Colonies when promoting their areas. The activities must comply with the existing Main management 5

challenges 99 The site holder attaches conditions to the use of the brand ‘Koloniën van Weldadigheid’ by by Weldadigheid’ van ‘Koloniën use of the brand including the Colonies, in and around entrepreneurs up guidelines in and will draw the use of the logo, that respect. regulations aimed at protecting the landscape and at protecting aimed regulations the buildings. Colonies of Benevolence

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6 Monitoring

6.1 MONITORING PURPOSE developments that may damage the OUV, both on an overarching and a Colony level. This is ensured The monitoring of the OUV of the Colonies of by the timely reporting of such developments by the Benevolence is meant to provide information on a Colony managers to the site manager, and by once regular basis for the management of the site. This a year bringing together experts from provinces involves the following: and municipalities, in order to jointly interpret 1 Timely identification of developments developments and trends in terms of their potential that might affect the OUV, as a basis for impact on the OUV. interventions and measures to control such developments; state of maintenance 2 Monitoring the state of maintenance of the In the context of the nomination, the state of cultural landscape containing the representative maintenance of the landscape and the representative buildings and nature; buildings and planting was established by Steenhuis- 3 Monitoring the progress of the Meurs from the point of view of authenticity and management measures, so that adjustments integrity. In addition, and in the context of landscape can be made where necessary; and zoning plans, inventories and classifications of 4 Ensuring compliance with the periodic the landscape and the nature values are available, six-year reporting requirement of UNESCO. while for some Colonies specific research was carried out on current nature values. All these timely identification of developments inventories are regarded as baseline measurements. By timely identifying developments that might The Netherlands has a State monument affect the OUV, the monitoring has primarily register at its disposal, in which the monuments an informative and safeguarding function. In are registered, but which does not structurally keep this respect it is important to closely monitor track of the state of maintenance. In Flanders, the 6 Monitoring 101 to report significant developments to the site significant developments to report management. On the other hand, the site management managers in the Colony alert towards also remains provinces from In addition, experts this respect. to once a year and municipalities meet at least in and trends identify developments collectively The terms of their potential impact on the OUV. Education and for Science, Committee Advisory in the identification of such a role Quality also plays and issues advice on how significant developments, seek the to deal with them. The site management will to such this Committee on the approach advice from a logbook The site management keeps developments. to according registered are in which developments The logbook also indicates which and extent. nature and in to these developments, party has responded what way. MONITORING METHOD MONITORING continuous: possible developments continuous: possible developments on the ouv with a significant impact 6.2 periodical reporting to unesco periodical reporting to progress of the management plan of the management progress The rhythm of the monitoring ranges from from of the monitoring ranges The rhythm state of maintenance of the buildings (monuments) maintenance of the buildings (monuments) of state the Flanders Heritage annually by is established Watch. such as Monument via organisations Agency, This involves careful monitoring of significant careful This involves This that could harm the OUV. developments of the monitoring is carried out at the discretion in a position always who are managers, Colony continuous vigilance and attentiveness, annual continuous vigilance and attentiveness, and group to the steering (progress reports reports to report to the obligation, at site level, stakeholders) six years. to UNESCO every Monitoring takes place on the basis of both place on takes Monitoring A number indicators. and qualitative quantitative These provide quantitative. of the indicators are of maintenance and concrete, information on the state such as the number of developments measurable or permits, environmental and granted requested buildings and changes to representative adjustments of of the indicators are a number Besides, or planting. the monitoring of This involves nature. a qualitative which might affect developments higher level larger, the OUV. The monitoring provides the input for periodic The monitoring provides place which in principle takes UNESCO, to reporting six years. every Through adequate control of the management of the control adequate Through of the of the progress track it is important to keep site, seven the in measures management of implementation Colonies (linked to the normal planning and control site management). This is necessary as a of the cycle on the basis for the annual budget and for feedback group. Plan to the steering Management Colonies of Benevolence

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→ Ommerschans (IV), Erica, house of the medical director (J.V.L.) 7 Section Oorden and Parten 103 Colonies of Benevolence

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Monitoring activities: continuous

COMPONENT MONITORING ACTIVITY KEY INDICATOR FREQUENCY SOURCE OWNER/ RESPONSIBLE PARTY

Significance Notification of a significant Number of significant Continuous Colony manager developments development which can have developments, (including an impact on the OUV including incidents possible (per Colony), notified incidents) and dealt with

If necessary, the site manager Number of significant Continuous Site manager can at all times put significant developments, developments that may affect including incidents the OUV on the agenda for: (per Colony) and the Advisory Committee for way they were dealt Science, Education and with Quality Steering group

The site manager registers the Logbook Continuous Site manager developments in an incidents logbook and reports on how they were dealt with

annual: progress reports The annual progress reports provide important —— Share information on relevant (spatial) information on both the implementation of the developments in the Colonies; agreements as listed in the Management Plan and —— Share expertise on how to deal with such the dynamics in the Colonies (both on an individual developments; and an overall basis). At least once a year, the —— Specify the interventions that could be deployed. Colony managers submit a report per Colony to the site manager on the progress of the management The annual progress reports serve mainly as a means measures, the significant developments (incidents) to screen the management of the Colonies and the site that might affect the OUV directly, as well as as a whole. concrete, measurable developments (for example A special reporting moment will be the mid- environmental permits) and the state of maintenance term review in 2021. In the planning cycle of the of the attributes. The site management draws up Management Plan, three years after the entry into an annual overall monitoring report. This report is force of the Management Plan the progress will be fed back to and adopted by the steering group, and assessed. This mid-term review will also be submitted submitted to the Focal Points. The report is also to the Advisory Committee and the steering group. relevant for the agenda of the Advisory Committee for Science, Education and Quality. This Committee meets (at least) once a year to: 6 Monitoring 105 SOURCE OWNER/ SOURCE RESPONSIBLE PARTY Site management Site Colony managers in managers Colony withcollaboration informationowners and tourist centres offices Colony managers on managers Colony the basis of source information from authorities governing Colony managers Colony Colony managers Colony Site management Site FREQUENCY Annual Annual Annual Annual Annual Annual KEY KEY INDICATOR Number of changes: Monuments Protected town/ villagescapes Protected landscape Progress reports Progress Number of of revisions spatial plans Number of requested and granted environmental permits Overall progress progress Overall Mid-term report (2021) review MONITORING ACTIVITY MONITORING Reports on incidents and interventions Reports Registration of: Registration centres information Number of visitors Information material Educational packages Registration of dynamics on the basis of: Registration and national monuments in municipal, provincial Changes or villagescapes townscapes, in protected Changes (indications or instructions) landscape (Flanders) in protected Change The Colony managers register (as indicator of the dynamics): (as indicator register managers The Colony plans plans / environmental zoning Reviews permits in environmental and granted Number of requested authorisations notifications and (NL)the Colonies or granted (FL) Advice obtained Colony managers provide an annual progress report about the report annual progress an provide managers Colony Plan. in line with the Management with agreements Colony, regarding: Description progress in measures of management / implementation • The introduction group. the steering to reports annual progress site Heritage World the propagating and activities aimed at • Projects impact of activities and indirect • Direct cycle. planning and control This annual activity is part of the regular for the a basis for the agreements provide reports The progress year. following The site management draws up overall progress reports on the basis reports progress up overall draws management The site the and discusses these in of the Colonies, reports of the progress review the mid-term will be paid to Special attention group. steering of 2021 COMPONENT Risk Management Information, promotion and education Monument protection regime Spatial protection regime Management Annual: progress reports Annual: progress Colonies of Benevolence

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Medium term: Critical qualitative reflection In the run-up to the periodic report to UNESCO (in principle every six years), a qualitative reflection will take place – partly on the basis of the annual progress reports – on authenticity, integrity, boundaries and description of the OUV. The site management can obviously not carry out this task by itself. The Advisory Committee for science, education and quality, and also the national Focal Points, will emphatically be involved in this process. The data files (including GIS maps) are the property of and managed by the site holders.

Medium term: Critical qualitative reflection

COMPONENT MONITORING ACTIVITY KEY FREQUENCY SOURCE OWNER / INDICATOR RESPONSIBLE PARTY

Maintenance, State of maintenance of attributes; State of At least every Colony managers management, • Basic typology landscape maintenance of six years, the On the basis of data from, for restoration • Structure the attributes year preceding example, Monument Watch, and recon- • Iconic buildings the report to and organisations for nature struction UNESCO conservation (SBB, NM, Water Boards, VLM)

OUV On the basis of the analysis of the results of the Qualitative preceding Site management in consultation various monitoring activities: do the criteria still check periodic report with Focal Points apply, or have the basic principles changed? to UNESCO Site management in consultation (every 6 years) with Advisory Committee for Science, Education and Quality

Authenticity Evaluation of the statement of authenticity and Qualitative preceding Site management in consultation and integrity the statement of integrity check periodic with Advisory Committee for reporting to Science, Education and Quality UNESCO (every 6 years) 6 Monitoring 107 ADMINISTRATIVE ADMINISTRATIVE AGREEMENTS Assen, The Netherlands Belgium 8830 AD Steenwijk, The Netherlands 8830 AD Steenwijk, The Netherlands Havelte, The Netherlands 8470 AB Wolvega, Ommen, 7770 BA 500, PO Box Hardenberg: The Netherlands Belgium The Netherlands Roden, AC 1210 Brussels, 1210 Brussels, 5, box Albert II-laan 19, Belgium 3800 BP Amersfoort, 1600, PO Box (RCE): The Netherlands 6.3 Province of Drenthe: PO Box 122, 9400 AC AC 9400 122, PO Box of Drenthe: Province 2580 Putte, 5, Landschap: Peredreef Kempens Municipality of Westerveld: PO Box 50, 7970 AB 50, PO Box of Westerveld: Municipality 60, PO Box of Weststellingwerf: Municipality Ommen/ Office (Bestuursdienst) Administration Putte, 2580 5, Landschap: Peredreef Kempens 9300 109, PO Box of Noordenveld: Municipality Municipality of Steenwijkerland: PO Box 162, 162, PO Box of Steenwijkerland: Municipality Cultural Heritage Agency of the Netherlands of the Netherlands Agency Heritage Cultural Flanders Heritage Agency (AOE): Koning Koning (AOE): Agency Flanders Heritage Site management: The following organisations manage the data used organisations The following for monitoring: Colony managers: Colony Monument registers: Monument

PART TWO: SUB- SECTIONS

7 Section Oorden and Parten (Colony I, II and III, Frederiksoord, Wilhelminaoord, Boschoord, Oostvierdeparten, Willemsoord) Management Plan World Heritage nomination — Colonies of Benevolence

7 Section Oorden and Parten 113

The distinctive Colony landscape, with long ribbons landscape, Colony The distinctive the grid in farmyards, houses on modest of Colony and structures landscape with the avenue the cultural with vistas, the alternating open and closed character the municipalities through: the three by is protected zoning plans and underlying plans such as various landscape plans and architectural policy documents, of Frederiksoord- area The core guidelines. has been designated as protected Wilhelminaoord number In addition, a large the State. villagescape by The as monument. protection of buildings enjoy combined with of the landscape, protection existing of dynamics of the character level low the relatively that also in the years ensure will of the environment, violations of this landscape to come few large-scale The scale of developments to be expected. are fits in of agriculture in the landscape as a result of the agricultural with the ongoing development of the since the days ever function in the area policy prescribes In addition, prevailing Colonies. should be areas in these Colony that developments of the landscape. character in the integrated properly archaeological heritage and/or the cultural Moreover, into account in be taken specifically must values

7.0 Introduction The reason for preparing the Management Plan, the Management for preparing The reason Colonies is that / The Free and Parten section Oorden jointly decided to have Belgium and the Netherlands to UNESCO that the Colonies of Benevolence propose status. Heritage nominated for UNESCO World are of the total encompasses three and Parten Oorden the founded by Colonies of Benevolence of seven in the period 1818 to 1825. Society of Benevolence in the context developed colonies, free These are the Society of Benevolence by started of the initiative with the experimental Netherlands in the Northern This experimental of Frederiksoord. Colony which area, T-shaped into a large grew Colony of areas the subsequently developed also covered (including Institute Boschoord Wilhelminaoord, and Oostvierdeparten Willemsoord, Wateren), clearly Colonies’ These ‘free Westvierdeparten. This Colony made their mark on the landscape. the from development and the ongoing landscape, in be recognised can still time of the cultivation, the landscape today. Colonies of Benevolence

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parts of the area. On the basis of prevailing plans and This section, Oorden and Parten, is an integral part regulations, the landscape as it has developed since of the Management Plan Colonies of Benevolence, the time of the Colonies is already protected at such a nomination file UNESCO World Heritage site. In level as to ensure that also after nomination this level the general section of the Management Plan the will be adequate to preserve and protect the OUV, and overarching management aspects are dealt with. that developments can be properly integrated in the Per Colony or cluster of Colonies separate sections landscape, also in relation to this OUV. have been drawn up with specific characteristics, developments and management measures for that For some time now, the municipalities of section. This is the section for the Colonies I to III. Steenwijkerland, Westerveld and Weststellingwerf have recognised the outstanding values of the The Management Plan is valid for 10 years and will Colony landscape. For that reason, the municipalities enter into force on the date that the World Heritage participate in the process of nominating the Colonies status is obtained. Work carried out in the nomination of Benevolence as UNESCO World Heritage site. In phase is in line with and/or in accordance with this this respect they collaborate with the three provinces section. involved, the Society of Benevolence and the other parties in the area which have been brought together in a feedback group.

The Management Plan of the Colonies of Benevolence consists of a main section and a sub-section per Colony or cluster of Colonies. This is the section for the Colonies I to III: —— Colony I: Frederiksoord (1818–1820); —— Colony II: Wilhelminaoord, Boschoord and Oostvierdeparten (1821–1823); —— Colony III: Willemsoord and Westvierdeparten (1820–1822).

In compliance with the Operational Guidelines, the Management Plan stipulates how the globally unique significance, the “Outstanding Universal Value” (OUV), of the Colonies of Benevolence will be preserved, reinforced and/or restored, taking into account the current state, the initial circumstances and the vision on authenticity and integrity. This section lists the management measures deployed for Colonies I to III in order to achieve this objective, and the way this is ensured by the parties concerned, such as the governing authorities and other parties involved with the management of the heritage. 7 Section Oorden and Parten 115

century th

The systematic disciplining (labour, disciplining (labour, The systematic communities self-reliant of up building The for better of a ‘laboratory The organisation utopian experiment in social engineering, with in social engineering, utopian experiment through poverty of eradicating the objective The settlements. of agricultural a system the evolution Colonies demonstrate seven Colonies, and unfree with free of the system of its successes and and encompass the traces in is an important step The experiment failures. of of care tradition European the long Western scale its large itself by the poor and distinguishes State. of the role and the active in: This is reflected 1 poor and needy of and morality) training on a national scale; organised citizens, 2 with high-quality facilities; 3 society. citizens’, for the existing The Colonies of Benevolence bear testimony to bear testimony The Colonies of Benevolence early 19 and large-scale an exceptional

OUTSTANDING UNIVERSAL UNIVERSAL OUTSTANDING OORDEN AND PARTEN VALUE

7.1.1 7.1 To bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony testimony exceptional bear a unique or at least To a civilization which is or to tradition a cultural to living or which has disappeared.

Universal Value Universal Outstanding Outstanding Criterion III: Criterion The Colonies of Benevolence are nominated as are The Colonies of Benevolence serial is a transnational, Landscape’. It ‘Cultural are nomination. The Colonies of Benevolence and nominated on the basis of the criteria (iii), (v) on the Each criterion is further substantiated (vi). These basis of a total of eight essential characteristics. used for the comparative are essential characteristics analysis and the definition of the attributes. Colonies of Benevolence

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Criterion V: Criterion VI: Be an outstanding example of a traditional Be directly or tangibly associated with events human settlement, land-use, or sea-use which is or living traditions, with ideas, or with beliefs, representative of a culture (or cultures), or human with artistic and literary works of outstanding interaction with the environment especially when universal significance. it has become vulnerable under the impact of irreversible change. The nationally organised experiment in poverty reduction in the Colonies of Benevolence took The Colonies of Benevolence are an exceptional root as a social initiative of the elite and the series of agricultural settlements, cultivated as national government. It combined traditional “islands” in inhospitable heath and peatland Christian values like charity and work ethic areas. The orthogonal structure and distinctive with the ideas of the Enlightenment, such as the layout of the landscape reflect the character of belief in emancipation, makeability, self-reliance, free and unfree Colonies. The strict hierarchic freedom of religion and the relationship between structure and dimensioning, with the carefully individuals and the State. The experiment had considered placement of buildings and planting, a great impact on the thinking about edification was instrumental in the intended influencing of of the masses, social mobility and the role and the behaviour of the inhabitants. The current responsibility of the State in that respect, and it cultural landscapes illustrate the extent, marks an early step in the development of the the ambition and the evolution of this social European tradition of social engineering. At the experiment. same time, the ambition proved to be utopian. Due to the numerous associative meanings, the This is reflected in: Colonies earned their place in the collective 4 The cultivation and organisation memory of the Netherlands and Flanders. of extensive closed agricultural settlements with a strict hierarchic structure and This is reflected in: dimensioning, with the aim of working out 7 The joint action of citizens and State in an integrated solution on a national scale to an innovative approach to tackling poverty on a the problem of poverty; national scale, in a public-private partnership; 5 The organisational model with two types: 8 The landscape of memory with its diverse free and unfree Colonies. The system was and evolving meanings in the collective memory focused on all the target groups of the poor and of the Netherlands and Belgium. needy, based on the belief in progress, according to which poverty in all its forms could be solved; 6 The focus on the maximisation and the optimisation of agricultural productivity by the colonists. 7 Section Oorden and Parten 117 Colonies of Benevolence; water structures, and avenue of roads system the measurement structures, applied, and the grid of the buildings; and its reduction in poverty experiment ongoing development. The basic typology of the free and unfree and unfree The basic typology of the free consisting of the landscape, The structure of the The buildings and planting representative — — — — — — What distinguishes the Colonies of Benevolence is the Colonies of Benevolence What distinguishes landscapes of the cultural the ongoing development constantly They were centuries. in the course of two of care adapted to modern ideas about agriculture, and punishment, but the original psychiatry the poor, of the colony of the landscape and many structure unchanged. The quality of the buildings remained as of the ensembles design of the landscape as well a that this was and the individual buildings shows the central supported by actively project, prestige Netherlands Colonies in the The free government. In Colonies settlements. into agricultural developed a retained I and II, the Society of Benevolence the Society of 1859, As from property. deal of great of the Dutch free changed the structure Benevolence with farms, organised collectively Colonies into larger, process. efficient production a more a view to creating although here, exists still The Society of Benevolence maintained a social It members. it no longer has any 1300 of approximately is the owner and objective Colonies and 65 buildings in the free of land hectares 1923, As from and Wilhelminaoord. of Frederiksoord sold. were parts of Willemsoord important attributes are: The most Oorden and Parten offers representative reflections reflections offers representative and Parten Oorden criteria of the OUV. of all three

The free Colonies were initially built up as a Colonies were The free the The basic unit was succession of small farms. single family farm, which included a plot of land that for a self-sufficient (in theory) sufficient to allow was of the debt to the Society life plus the repayment food, etc. In the clothing, of housing, in respect 52 farmhouses of Frederiksoord, Colony experimental of land. The hectares of 2,5 built with an average were (including – Willemsoord Colonies that followed free (including Wilhelminaoord Westvierdeparten), (Belgium) – and Wortel Boschoord Oostvierdeparten), to the same basic according constructed were were The later Colonies principles as Frederiksoord. scope for families more which allowed spacious, more farming. Characteristic of the free Colonies is the ‘ribbon Colonies of the free Characteristic development’ with identical, – long ribbons system and centrally plots, arranged systematically such facilities, of collective located concentrations The ribbons were as the school and the church. to each other (Frederiksoord, laid out parallel creating each other, they crossed Wilhelminaoord), or they Wortel), (Willemsoord, a village centre in the landscape situated along main roads were and Westvierdeparten). (Oostvierdeparten The landscape of the Colonies of Benevolence is The landscape of the Colonies of Benevolence witness unique in that it bears material and authentic inspired efforts of the social elite, to the large-scale the early 19th century to solve the Enlightenment, by objective The comprehensive problem. urban poverty and on the other hand of on the one hand self-reliance is labour and training, through and discipline order of in the design and the coherence clearly reflected of the landscape The layout landscape and buildings. model of to the organisational connected is directly different with or unfree, (free Colony the respective a pattern of long Colonies have free The regimes). Colonies while the unfree ribbons with small farms, surrounded institution, a pattern with a central have farms. large by Colonies of Benevolence

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III 1 2 3 LANDSCAPE OF TRADITION DISCIPLINING: SELF-RELIANT MINI-SOCIETY FOR ALL SOCIAL ENGINEERING EDUCATION, CARE, COMMUNITIES DENOMINATIONS PUNISHMENT

Frederiksoord Schoolmaster’s house Colonists’ plots, approximately 2,5 hectares each Plots of the 6 large farms, approximately 50 hectares each (after 1864–1867) Workshop Post office Doctor’s house Coach house

Wilhelminaoord Colonists’ plots, Rectory including Oostvierde- approximately 2,5 ‘Waterstaatskerkje’ parten hectares each (church realised with Plots of the 6 large farms, financial support of the approximately 50 hectares national government) each (after 1864–1867) Factory Home for the elderly Rustoord I and II

Willemsoord including Colonists’ plots, Reformed church Westvierdeparten approximately 2,8 Rectory hectares each Plots of the 6 large farms, approximately 50 hectares each (after 1864–1867) Location former synagogue, teacher’s house and bathhouse 7 Section Oorden and Parten 119 6 INNOVATION INNOVATION AGRICULTURAL AGRICULTURAL 8 Gerard Adriaan van Gerard horticultural Swieten Society of school/office Benevolence Germ barn (location/story) Institute Agricultural Wateren LANDSCAPE OF MEMORY LANDSCAPE OF MEMORY Cemetery cemetery General Catholic cemetery cemetery on general Tree’ ‘Apostle Jewish cemetery Vredehof Cemetery 5 ORGANISATIONAL ORGANISATIONAL MODEL FREE/UNFREE MODEL FREE/UNFREE Farm ribbons with central ribbons with central Farm with facilities crossroads ribbons with central Farm with facilities crossroads with crossroads Central of the specific structure buildings 7 4 SOCIAL INITIATIVE ELITE ELITE SOCIAL INITIATIVE POVERTY PROBLEM PROBLEM POVERTY INTEGRATED SOLUTION SOLUTION INTEGRATED Residence Johannes van den Bosch Residence house Guest house/Director’s Colony houses Colony Farm Koning Hoeve (Farm) III Willem Maj. Van Hoeve (Farm) Swietenlaan Prinses Hoeve (Farm) Marianne Immer Moed Hoeve (Farm) (farm) De Hoeve Former Werkhorst barn Hay houses Colony Farm Schools (2x) house Teacher’s Utrecht Hoeve (Farm)

V VI LANDSCAPE LANDSCAPE PRECURSOR PRECURSOR CULTIVATION CULTIVATION LARGE-SCALE LARGE-SCALE WELFARE STATE STATE WELFARE Wilhelminaoord Willemsoord Frederiksoord Frederiksoord Wilhelminaoord Willemsoord Colonies of Benevolence

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Below, the contribution of the Colony to the series in Characteristics Colony III relation to the OUV is specified: Willemsoord and Westvierdeparten

Typology: Characteristics Colony I Free Colony with structure of a crossroads Frederiksoord with facilities with specific structure (positioning) buildings and separate hamlet De Pol for Typology: Jewish colonists. First free Colony. Structure of the landscape: Structure of the landscape: Cultivation by the Society of Benevolence, Combination of natural elements, previous avenue planting, cemeteries and green structure. cultivations (estate) and cultivation by the Society Representative buildings and planting: of Benevolence. Small-scale orthogonal structure. (Possible presence of archaeological remains of ) Avenue planting, experimental gardens, horticultural a synagogue and bathhouse; buildings from second, school, green structure. third and fourth phases. Representative buildings and planting: Landscape of memory: Westerbeeksloot estate and mansion Huis Jewish cemetery. Westerbeeksloot (preliminary phase, office Society of Benevolence since 1818), dozens of buildings from the first and second phases of cultivation: colony houses, schools (including forestry and horticultural school), hotel, soup kitchen. Landscape of memory: Huis Westerbeek, museum ‘de Koloniehof’, cemetery.

Characteristics Colony II Wilhelminaoord, Boschoord, Oostvierdeparten

Typology: Ongoing development structure free Colonies, more spacious layout (Wilhelminaoord), linear structure (Oostvierdeparten) and forest cultivation (Boschoord). Structure of the landscape: Cultivation by the Society of Benevolence, avenue planting and green structure, cemeteries, afforestation. Representative buildings and planting: Dozens of buildings from the first and second phases of cultivation: colony houses, churches, retirement homes, large farm. Landscape of memory: Cemeteries. 7 Section Oorden and Parten 121 integrity oorden and parten In Oorden and Parten, the forms of cultivation and the forms of cultivation and Parten, In Oorden model of the organisational the spatial interpretation as the Society of Benevolence Colonies of the free them can be found. In the free originally conceived is determined structure cultivation the Colonies, of which the grounds the mainly by as by as well Society could obtain ownership, landscape and the different the natural in variations centuries, two types of soil. In the course of almost and enriched, differentiated this landscape was or more updated. In addition, during all the phases at times were which took place, changes less radical at other carried out in the spirit of the Colonies and Oorden thereto. wholly unconnected times were the original cultivation reflects still and Parten of of the landscape and the whole range structure facilities where and collective individual functions, The buildings in and worked. lived the colonists the Society of by realised were en Parten Oorden builders private After the privatisation, Benevolence. (houses themselves also manifested and farms). The from suffered visual integrity has in some respects The importance of the the effects of this privatisation. and the government by heritage is fully recognised of urbanisation is no pressure the population. There and when buildings are areas, in the surrounding place. takes re-use unoccupied adaptive of the small- the construction and Parten, In Oorden of landscape which is characteristic scale cultivation Colonies and the up-scalingthe free of plot sizes in after the experimental Colonies developed the free as the further as well of Frederiksoord, Colony the Society applied by in scale to 50 hectares increase a subsequent phase (after 1859), in of Benevolence Colonies the three Moreover, visibly present. still are of the enormous picture a clear together provide Colonies in the free involving scale of the experiment, of large and transformation alone the cultivation of heaths and bogs to be used as agricultural areas the by cultivated the area maps show land. Historical of the landscape the structure and Society at the time, of the landscape structure The historical cultivation. INTEGRITY AND INTEGRITY AUTHENTICITY Preliminary phase: the period before phase: the period before Preliminary and phase: cultivation Foundation of the Colonies The further evolution unfree in the institutions Phase of state of and valuation Phase of redevelopment 7.1.2 0 with of the Society of Benevolence, the arrival heaths and bogs with sporadic undeveloped cultivation; 1 the Society of Benevolence by organisation (1818–1825); 2 1825–1859); roughly in time per Colony; (varying 3 in the free partial privatisation Colonies, in scale in all the and increases Colonies, roughly per Colony, in time Colonies (varying after 1859); 4 the period 1980– from the heritage (starting 1990). In the establishment and the development of the of and the development In the establishment periods the following Colonies of Benevolence, can be recognised: The Colonies of Benevolence are cultural landscapes cultural are The Colonies of Benevolence and developed ground, rough of cultivated consisting to eradicating colonies with a view into agricultural and disciplining. training labour, through poverty remain that basic principle and objective today, Until landscape in the orthogonally structured recognisable and fields and forests, meadows, with avenues, institutions, farms, houses, with the characteristic The buildings. schools and industrial churches, landscape with different a living cultural Colonies are which the developments through time layers, historic Everywhere, path. own their followed have Colony per of the landscape and structure the original cultivation individual and collective of functions, the whole range can and worked, lived the colonists facilities where found. be still Colonies of Benevolence

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in Oorden and Parten has remained clearly and contemporary interpretation. The connecting factor is integrally recognisable, as evidenced by historical not one ‘authentic’ period, but the landscape structure map analysis. The cohesion between the attributes which has developed, in which four determining in the landscape is also clearly visible. These are phases (see statement of integrity) can be recognised. elements that refer to the large-scale land cultivation The series as a whole provides an accurate picture with a progressive social objective. In Oorden of the important social experiment of the Society of and Parten, these elements include ditches, roads, Benevolence. Oorden and Parten reflects this picture planting patterns, plot structures, building structures, for the free Colonies. cemeteries, social functions, archaeological sites and building typologies such as colony houses and colony The authenticity of Oorden and Parten is reflected in: farms, churches and schools (for different ranks and —— The small-scale cultivation landscape positions), offices, retirement homes and community characteristic of the free Colonies; buildings. Characteristic of the free Colonies are —— The structure of farm ribbons with central the continuous ribbons with small-scale farms crossroads and facilities; (colony houses). The landscape typologies of the free —— The main road structure and secondary Colonies, with their adaptations to local conditions road structure with avenue plantings, and evolving insights, have remained recognisable in ‘overtuinen’ (gardens on the other side Oorden and Parten, due to the presence of attributes of the road or ditch) and front gardens; such as roads, waterways and paths, green structures, —— The plot structure with recognisable plot parcellations, trees and forests, buildings and building boundaries of colony houses, farms patterns. However, the visual and functional integrity and farm plots; has in some places been affected by subsequent —— The water structures created for the purpose developments (housing and agriculture). It is a living of the cultivations; landscape, where the function of agriculture, in —— The combination of open and closed landscape combination with care and education, has remained characteristics; recognisable in the area, although these functions —— The buildings and building structure (including evolved over time. The function of landscape of the grid) with colony houses, farms, memory was added through museum ‘de Koloniehof’, churches, schools, etc.; Colony Days, etc. The ongoing development in Oorden —— The head office of the Society of and Parten is reflected in contemporary agricultural Benevolence and the presence of the enterprises. Society of Benevolence; —— The presence of specific ecological values authenticity oorden and parten dating from the period of the Colonies The structure of the cultural landscape, the existing (‘apostle trees’). buildings and the archaeological sites authentically and credibly tell the story of the Colonies of Benevolence, from their inception to the present day. Said structures have remained recognisable and have been preserved in their essence. The use of the Colonies for agricultural purposes and the objectives formulated by the Society of Benevolence two centuries ago, were in essence continued and supplemented with new functions, which provide the original social significance of the Colonies with a 7 Section Oorden and Parten 123 area cultivated by the Society of Benevolence, with the with Benevolence, of Society the by cultivated area the essential of parts which do not reflect exception of or which as a result of the OUV, expression identified. cannot be clearly subsequent developments elements of the landscape structure, All the relevant buildings and the as the representative as well and the the history buildings which reflect exemplary located within are Colonies, of these free development the boundaries of the property. the the OUV, from derived is directly The property is This area itself. the OUV manifests where area (landscape set of ‘attributes’ the coherent formed by the express buildings) that directly elements, On the map this of the OUV. main characteristics site’. Heritage is designated as ‘nominated World where the area to this comes down In practice, can be optimally experienced. the heritage values villagescape the protected and Parten In Oorden is designated as the Frederiksoord-Wilhelminaoord III a property in Colonies I and II. In Colony property buildings in this has also been designated. Various status. monument enjoy property

LOCATION AND BOUNDARIES LOCATION

7.2.1

and Parten 7.2 Oorden Colonies The boundaries of the property and the buffer zone The boundaries of the property with the correspond integrally and Parten Oorden Oorden and Parten is a cluster of three Colonies. Colonies. of three is a cluster and Parten Oorden with a buffer zone a property Colonies, In all three nomination file has been designated. In the overall opted for a clear designation of boundaries was on the basis of the of the buffer zone, in respect the Society of Benevolence. by cultivated area Heritage The boundaries of the nominated World based on the boundaries site and the buffer zone are cultivated that the Society of Benevolence of the area concerns the cultivation It on behalf of its Colonies. which took place during the foundation phase of the The buffer zone (1818–1825). Colonies of Benevolence the boundaries of is basically determined by the Society of Benevolence. by cultivated the area the the view of and from protect areas wooded Where or where and Merksplas), Wortel (Boschoord, Colony distance at a considerable zone is bordered the core to the attributes (Ommerschans), no buffer in relation zone has been added. Colonies of Benevolence

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↑ Frederiksoord (I), Huis Westerbeek, home of Johannes van den Bosch, currently the office of the Society of Benevolence (J.V.L.) 7 Section Oorden and Parten 125 ↑ (II), Wilhelminaoord of land 1859 small plots after in large reïntegrated were Marianne Hoeve farms like (J.V.L.) ← (III), Willemsoord with avenue planted houses colony (J.V.L.) Colonies of Benevolence

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In determining the boundaries of the Colonies of Benevolence, the total area cultivated by the Society of Benevolence by the end of the foundation phase (1818–1825) served as the basic principle. This principle concerns the total of the seven Colonies. Within these cultivation boundaries, the proposed property is the area in which the essential expression of the OUV can be recognised, because all the relevant attributes that give expression to the OUV are located here, strongly interrelated. These areas together constitute the proposed property. In all seven Colonies, generic protection of the OUV in and around the property applies. (See the Management Plan including its sub-sections). To protect the OUV against external influences that might affect it, the following principle was adopted: Where the landscape is of an open nature (Colonies I, II, III and VI), a buffer zone has been designated. Where an ‘internal buffer’ is present because the view of and from the Colony is protected by forest (Colonies V and VII), a buffer zone is considered unnecessary. Where the core zone is bordered at a considerable distance in relation to the attributes (Colony IV), no buffer zone has been added. The landscape in and around the free Colonies I, II and III is largely of an open character. Therefore, buffer zones have been added here to protect the property. The buffer zones in these areas also serve to establish the connection between the individual but closely spaced and linked free Colonies I, II and III. The sub-area Boschoord consists entirely of forest and for that reason does not require a buffer zone.

On the three maps, the boundaries of Oorden and Parten are specified per Colony.

7 Section Oorden and Parten

127

52°52'0"N 52°51'30"N 52°51'0"N 52°50'30"N 52°50'0"N 52°49'30"N 52°56'0"N 52°55'30"N 52°55'0"N 52°54'30"N 52°54'0"N 52°53'30"N 52°53'0"N 52°52'30"N 6°16'0"E 6°15'30"E Zorgvlied 6°15'0"E Doldersum 6°14'30"E 6°14'0"E Boschoord 6°13'30"E Wapserveen 6°13'0"E Vledder 6°12'30"E Boijl 6°12'0"E 6°11'30"E Vledderveen Frederiksoord 6°11'0"E 6°10'30"E Nijensleek 6°10'0"E Oosterstreek Wilhelminaoord 6°9'30"E Km. 1 Noordwolde-Zuid 6°9'0"E Property Bufferzone Eesveen Noordwolde 6°8'30"E 0 CoordinateSystem: RDNew Projection: Double Stereographic Datum: Amersfoort Units: Meter IDENTIFICATION 6°8'0"E M1.3 COLONY 1 — FREDERIKSOORD 1:50.000 M1.3 Identification Frederiksoord I: Colony 1:50.000 M1.4 IDENTIFICATION Identification COLONY 11 — WILHELMINAOORD Colony1:50.000 II: Wilhelminaoord 1:50.000 Colonies of Benevolence

128 52°56'0"N

Zorgvlied 52°55'30"N 52°55'0"N

Boijl 52°54'30"N

Oosterstreek Boschoord 52°54'0"N

Noordwolde 52°53'30"N

Doldersum 52°53'0"N

Noordwolde-Zuid Vledderveen 52°52'30"N 52°52'0"N Wilhelminaoord

Vledder 52°51'30"N 52°51'0"N

Frederiksoord 52°50'30"N Nijensleek Property Bufferzone

Coordinate System: RD New 52°50'0"N Projection: Double Stereographic Datum: Amersfoort Units: Meter 0 Eesveen1 Km. Wapserveen 52°49'30"N

6°8'0"E 6°8'30"E 6°9'0"E 6°9'30"E 6°10'0"E 6°10'30"E 6°11'0"E 6°11'30"E 6°12'0"E 6°12'30"E 6°13'0"E 6°13'30"E 6°14'0"E 6°14'30"E 6°15'0"E 6°15'30"E 6°16'0"E

7 Section Oorden and Parten

129

52°49'30"N 52°49'0"N 52°48'30"N 52°48'0"N 52°47'30"N 52°47'0"N 52°53'30"N 52°53'0"N 52°52'30"N 52°52'0"N 52°51'30"N 52°51'0"N 52°50'30"N 52°50'0"N 6°9'0"E Eesveen Noordwolde-Zuid Noordwolde 6°8'30"E 6°8'0"E De Bult 6°7'30"E Steenwijk 6°7'0"E Eese Vinkega 6°6'30"E 6°6'0"E Tuk 6°5'30"E Steggerda 6°5'0"E De Pol Witte Paarden 6°4'30"E Steenwijkerwold 6°4'0"E Willemsoord 6°3'30"E Peperga 6°3'0"E Oldeholtpade Km. 1 6°2'30"E De Blesse Property Bufferzone 6°2'0"E 0 CoordinateSystem: RDNew Projection: Double Stereographic Datum: Amersfoort Units: Meter IDENTIFICATION 6°1'30"E M1.5 COLONY 111 — WILLEMSOORD 1:50.000 M1.5 Identification Willemsoord III: Colony 1:50.000 Colonies of Benevolence

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7.2.2 QUALITATIVE DESCRIPTION Because there are significant differences per Colony OORDEN AND PARTEN as regards developments and related timeline, it was decided to provide a description per Colony in this section, starting from the moment of cultivation. At 7.2.2.1 Broad outline that time, the sub-areas (preliminary phase) consisted of heaths and peat landscapes. The description As from 1818, the Society of Benevolence founded an corresponds to chapter 2 of the nomination file, but in initial number of seven free Colonies on the border of abridged form. the provinces of Drenthe, Overijssel and Friesland, in the north of the Netherlands. These comprised a total of approximately 400 colony houses, accommodating on 7.2.2.3 Colony I average seven people. Following a reorganisation in 1825, Frederiksoord they were merged into three Colonies: Frederiksoord (I), Wilhelminaoord-Boschoord (II) and Willemsoord Frederiksoord marks the origins of the Colonies of (III). All of these display the characteristic pattern Benevolence. At the same time this Colony, due to of cultivation ribbons with farms (colonists’ farms), the continued presence of the office of the Society intended for poor families. The collective functions are of Benevolence, is a symbol of the continuity and concentrated at crossroads or on main roads. In the last the future. Centrally located in the Colony is the Colony to be founded, Boschoord, that pattern never Westerbeeksloot estate, which from 1614 had been got off the ground, which is why in 1825 it was merged developed by François van Westerbeek. In the with Wilhelminaoord. The area as a whole can be read foundation phase of the Colonies, Huis Westerbeek as a spatial development of the evolving insights in the was the residence of the founder of the Society of tangible colonisation practice of a free Colony. Benevolence, Johannes van den Bosch. At present the Society has its offices there. In 1818 the first free Colony, containing 53 farms, was established south of 7.2.2.2 Origins and current meaning Westerbeeksloot. One year later, a start was made on the second Colony, with fifty farms, east and north of In the establishment and the development of the the estate. In 1823 both Colonies were merged, and Colonies of Benevolence, the following periods can from 1825 they were jointly referred to as Colony I. be recognised: 0 Preliminary phase: the period before characteristic landscape pattern the arrival of the Society of Benevolence The cultivation started out on the basis of the existing (undeveloped heaths and bogs with sporadic infrastructure: the Westerbeeksloot estate and the cultivation); main road from Steenwijk to Vledder. During the 1 Foundation phase: cultivation and cultivation, the Westerbeeksloot barge canal was organisation by the Society of Benevolence widened and lengthened, and two sub-canals were (1818–1825); dug perpendicular to it. The main road to Vledder 2 The further evolution of the Colonies divided the first and the second Colony and became (varying in time per Colony; roughly 1825–1859); the heart of Frederiksoord, also because of the 3 Phase of partial privatisation in the free presence of Huis Westerbeek and the adjacent guest Colonies and increase in scale (varying in time house. The Horticultural School (1884) and the per Colony, roughly after 1859); Forestry School (1887) are also located on this road. 4 Phase of redevelopment and valuation of As the property owned by the Society of Benevolence the heritage (late 20th century). extended further north, the Koningin Wilhelminalaan, 7 Section Oorden and Parten 131

ensemble: huis westerbeek ensemble: huis westerbeek and surroundings The core of the ensemble is Huis Westerbeek, with Westerbeek, the ensemble is Huis of The core park domain. In the immediate the surrounding facilities were a number of collective vicinity, either in support of the Society itself or realised, of the poor. for the education or the employment as established was Frederiksoord Hotel In 1770, the then Heloma, van Nicolaas house by a guest After the estate. of the Westerbeeksloot owner it became the the Society of Benevolence, by takeover The for its administrators. permanent meeting venue hands. in private management of the hotel is currently School, A. Horticultural The G. Swieten van off as a horticultural started in 1884, established became and later school for the sons of colonists, school Recently college. a secondary horticultural The to the city of Meppel. moved activities were The zoning. house has a residential schoolmaster’s will return Terra of AOC facilities training practical In of absence. years after twenty to the park garden school, Frederiksoord addition to the horticultural This in 1887. school, established also had a forestry purposes. let for residential building is now in some places disturbed by traffic management traffic by in some places disturbed while cross- continuous, are roads Main interventions. to in relation sometimes staggered connections are and main roads between The distinction each other. of the presence is emphasised by secondary roads and the Hooiweg like (dirt) roads, and unpaved paved the Oranjelaan. The Dutch policy concerning heritage development 1999–2009: so-called(the Programme Belvedere development’) through includes a project ‘conservation of new the construction involving for Frederiksoord places houses in colony sustainable energy-efficient house of the The colony disappeared. they have where as part of the knowledge interpretation is a local future A total Areas”. for “Excellent plan of the State exchange houses will be built. such of 62 Between the trees there are views of the geometrically views of the geometrically are there the trees Between also structure land behind. The road constructed only hierarchy, a clearly recognisable demonstrates In the current spatial structure much of the spatial structure In the current the from which derives structure, former Colony preserved. remains of the area, history development the avenue by pattern, reinforced road The rectilinear with the axes of trees, of a variety planting consisting intervals uniform small-scale buildings at regular the determine plots still and the small agricultural The small- of Frederiksoord. landscape characteristics adjusted, radically frequently scale buildings were because the initial farms volume in increased mostly small. extremely were The set-up of the free Colony resulted in resulted Colony of the free The set-up block-shaped in a tightly structured, Frederiksoord which adapted landscape with a small-scale character, of the Westerbeeksloot structure itself to the existing the original pattern with scattered Within estate. were axes and cultivation crossroads the buildings, and workshops. of facilities used for the realisation of Frederiksoord the intricate structure After 1859, the Society of by overwritten partially was II and III. as also happened in Colonies Benevolence, combined to accommodate were small fields Existing 50 hectares; farms measuring around working large III. Willem this farm became Hoeve in Frederiksoord agricultural to improve was The aim of this approach as the disciplining of the colonists. as well production this also the inclusion of new buildings, from Apart The in a number of new plot demarcations. resulted preserved. remained structure road which ran in northwest-southeast direction, took on direction, northwest-southeast in which ran ran avenue to this Parallel significance. increasing farms of the second Colony the ribbons with colony and M.A. Naamen van Vaartweg Hooiweg, (currently: at sixty metre Along these roads, Eemneslaan). van in situated, farms were identical colony intervals, single-sided or double-sidedThe plots ribbons. and hectares 2,4 belonging to these farms measured ditches. narrow by bordered were Colonies of Benevolence

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The former carpentry shop was previously in use 7.2.2.4 Colony II as a carpentry and maintenance workshop of the Wilhelminaoord, Boschoord Society of Benevolence. Nowadays, the building and Oostvierdeparten houses the museum ‘de Koloniehof’, which tells the story of how the colonists’ families lived and In Colony II the typology of the free Colony is worked. On the Majoor van Swietenlaan and the further developed. Wilhelminaoord, Boschoord Koningin Wilhelminalaan, small colony houses are and Vierdeparten were initially founded between located which date back to the early days, but were 1820 and 1822 as three free Colonies. Following restored and/or adapted to meet the requirements of a reorganisation of the Society of Benevolence modern comfort. On the corner Molenlaan – Graaf in 1825, they were merged into Colony II, named van Limburg Stirumlaan, the soup kitchen is located, Wilhelminaoord. The western part of Vierdeparten which in the early days of the experimental Colony (Westvierdeparten) was incorporated in Colony III, played a key role. Furthermore there is a large doctor’s Willemsoord. Wilhelminaoord was established in house, built around 1910–1915, commissioned by the 1820 on the grounds of the Westerbeeksloot estate Society of Benevolence and designed by R. van der and Vierdeparten. The Colony contained some Woerd Hzn. from Enschede. The art nouveau style hundred colony farms. Between 1821 and 1822, the building is characteristic of the level of facilities eastern part of Vierdeparten (Oostvierdeparten) and within the Society. Meanwhile, an extension has Westvierdeparten were cultivated and parcelled. This been added in the form of a flat-roofed ancillary is a narrow ribbon with a length of approximately building. Finally, there is the prominent post office ten kilometres, with a central road and colony farms with a tied house, and the tram shed on the Koningin on either side, also about a hundred in number. Wilhelminalaan. The main part of Vierdeparten is situated in the province of Friesland. It connects the free Colonies individual objects of Willemsoord (1820) and Boschoord (1822–1823). Hoeve Koning Willem III, a farm built in 1865, is Boschoord initially covered an extensive area, but this situated outside the ensemble. Originally it was just cultivation faltered at an early stage, mainly because a barn, which was subsequently extended. The farm of the poor condition of the soil. Some 25 lots were is still in operation and is leased. It is a model for plotted on the site, but only the occasional colony the policy of up-scaling applied from 1859, and was farm was realised. always considered exemplary for the operational management of the Society. wilhelminaoord: Landscape structure The spatial structure of Wilhelminaoord consists of In 1942 the germ house was built to germinate parallel ribbons, comparable to Frederiksoord. The the seed potatoes of the farms of the Society of two Colonies merge via the Koningin Wilhelminalaan Benevolence before planting them. The conditions in and the avenue parallel to it, the M.A. van Naamen the building were such that the germination process van Eemneslaan. Along both these avenues the same could be optimally controlled. It was restored in 2012 pattern of ribbon development recurs. The facilities, and is currently used by Bureau Ecolan for activities concentrated mainly on the Koningin Wilhelminalaan, related to landscape maintenance. The bureau offers are complementary to those of Frederiksoord. a daytime activities programme in the germ house for Functionally, both Colonies operated as one integrated people with a minor mental disability. The building is whole. A difference with Frederiksoord is that the a national monument. It is one of the three remaining plots of the colony farms were more spacious, 2,8 germ barns in Drenthe. hectares instead of 2,4 hectares per farm. From 1859, just like in Frederiksoord, small plots were integrated 7 Section Oorden and Parten 133 boschoord: landscape structure boschoord: wilhelminaoord: individual objects individual wilhelminaoord: Boschoord was the last Colony to be established in the to be established Colony the last was Boschoord its full potential because of realised but it never area, the infertile soil. Attempts the limitations imposed by made to adapt the poor soil to the needs of were innovative an, at that time, means of by agriculture (broom but this manure culture), of green system the area Eventually, results. did not yield the desired has Boschoord forest. planted with production was owned managed estate, into a carefully developed has the The area the Society of Benevolence. by but Colony, of a free structure avenue distinctive and ribbon development without the characteristic the throughout Scattered of functions. concentration mainly 19th and early 20th century gravestones. The mainly 19th and early 20th century gravestones. Elisabeth van of Daniella gravestone 1819 cast-iron to Adjacent monument status. enjoys Oosterhoudt Catholic is a small Roman there cemetery, the general cemetery. 1913 and is dates from Prinses Marianne Hoeve initially name was as a farm. Its operation in still the Gratitude), (Farm de Dankbaarheid” “Hoeve donation for that the anonymous until it transpired Princess Marianne. had come from the construction barn hay wooden this farm, a hexagonal to Adjacent the Society In that year, 1865. is situated, built around barn on had designed and built a farm with a similar up as either side of it. That enterprise had been set the shift towards a model farm, and characterised 1910 the farm was Around operations. larger-scale Prinses Hoeve and the current fire by destroyed barn remained the hay established; was Marianne In 2013 a national monuments. Both are preserved. Prinses Marianne. added to Hoeve cubicle barn was in consultation with the developed The design was the Society of Benevolence, the Foundation initiators, the and Heritage, Aesthetics Committee for Building Heritage Committee and the Cultural Monuments integrated The barn was of the Netherlands. Agency and is evolution”, into the landscape as a “natural renovation. for ‘appropriate’ exemplary wilhelminaoord: ensemble rustoord i i ensemble rustoord wilhelminaoord: and ii and surroundings into one large farm, Hoeve Prinses Marianne, where where Prinses Marianne, farm, Hoeve into one large The later village employed. were the colonists is unconnected with of Wilhelminaoord expansion and does not form structure avenue the characteristic Only the site. Heritage World part of the proposed Eemneslaan and the Vaartweg van M.A. Naamen van these less characteristic Consequently, extended. were of been embedded in the main structure have areas Frederiksoord-Wilhelminaoord. The simple little brick ‘waterstaatskerkje’ (church (church The simple little brick ‘waterstaatskerkje’ with financial support of the national realised of on the border tower, with its small government) built in was and Wilhelminaoord, Frederiksoord of mandatory church 1851 to meet the requirement in 2009 it was Until attendance in the Colonies. it is These days church. the Dutch Reformed use by formal and educational gatherings. used for festive, function, the the dissolution of the church Until the vicar’s was adjacent to the church 1912 rectory The former school with schoolmaster’s home. built in 1821, is a double house in Wilhelminaoord, on the mill/forge The basketry/weaving house now. alternative the required offered Wilhelminalaan unfit for hard who were to colonists employment cemetery on the The general labour. agricultural plots and with rectangular is simple, Oranjelaan In this ensemble Rustoord I and Rustoord II are II are I and Rustoord In this ensemble Rustoord in the Colonies of specific located, the only examples contains the first I Rustoord of the elderly. care (1893). homes for the elderly in the Netherlands and restored extensively the building was In 1975, let. are present which at divided into four houses, scale with a larger realised, II was In 1904 Rustoord After the focusing on single elderly people. set-up the for the elderly, of a new home construction as re-use made suitable for adaptive building was of the property Wilhelminaoord, Buitencentrum This place is also known municipality of The Hague. primary because The Hague in Forest’ as ‘School there. weeks project schools organise Colonies of Benevolence

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area are buildings related to the education of colonists, oostvierdeparten: housing and forestry. Due to the afforestation, it has landscape structure a more closed character than the other free Colonies, In 1642 a barge canal for the transport of peat was except for one central open space and at the open dug on the border of the provinces of Drenthe and edges. There, too, the three farms are established. Friesland. The owners of the land surrendered The area consists of production forest, nature and a quarter of their plots, marking the creation of recreational area, with alternating deciduous and ‘Vierdeparten’ (quarter parts). In 1821, at the start coniferous woods, fens, small heaths and pastures. of the cultivation by the Society, peat was still being extracted to serve as fuel for enterprises such as the The property of the Society of Benevolence originally stone oven in Frederiksoord.1 Due to the elongated extended much further west of Boschoord, with shape of Vierdeparten, the Colony had a structure the areas of Wateren and Oude Willem. In 1823 the that differed from all the other free Colonies: a ribbon Society built an Agricultural Institute at Wateren, of almost ten kilometres long, with colony farms on with initially 50 hectares of land and twenty years either side. A village core or centre was lacking, but in later almost 500 hectares, some of it cultivated the western part a school was located (disappeared) and some of it in use as sheep pasture (heath). The and after 1859 a large farm was established there cultivation of Oude Willem was intended for cattle (Hoeve ’s-Gravenhage, which was demolished). breeding (grassland). In 1859, following the major For facilities, Vierdeparten relied on the reorganisation of the Society of Benevolence, the areas surrounding Colony villages of Willemsoord (west), of Oude Willem and Wateren, totalling more than Wilhelminaoord (centre) and Boschoord (east). 2000 hectares, were sold. The area sold in 1859 is not After 1825, Westvierdeparten was incorporated part of the proposed World Heritage site, although the in Willemsoord and Oostvierdeparten in Agricultural Institute Wateren is part of the story of Wilhelminaoord. The structure of the landscape and the Society of Benevolence. the avenue planting still exist, but only a few colony houses remained preserved. Houses and farms were boschoord: individual objects replaced within the structure. After a thorough restoration, the former small primary school in Boschoord has found a new use as a studio. Adjacent to it is the former schoolmaster’s 7.2.2.5 Colony III house and in the immediate vicinity, on the Jongkindt Willemsoord and Conincklaan, there are two small colony houses. Westvierdeparten

Hoeve Immer Moed, Hoeve De Werkhorst and Hoeve Willemsoord is the free Colony with a crossroads Boschoord date from the period of the up-scaling of with facilities which is visible in the structure, and a farms after 1859. In the 1950s, a start was made in separate hamlet for Jewish colonists. Willemsoord Hoeve Boschoord with the care of mentally retarded was founded in 1820 as Colony III, with 100 colony persons placed under a court hospital order (TBS). farms on the Steenwijkerwold heath. The Society In the 1970s the farm was developed into a nursing owned land on either side of the Heirweg from home, and in the beginning of the 21st century a Steenwijk to Wolvega, and had also acquired a broad modern treatment centre was added. By now it has strip of land perpendicular to the road, which was grown into a very large care complex, employing over later connected to Westvierdeparten. Following the 500 people, making it the largest employer of the reorganisation of the Colonies in 1825, Willemsoord municipality of Westerveld. and Westvierdeparten (the ribbon of about 6 kilometres long running from Wilhelminaoord to 7 Section Oorden and Parten 135 willemsoord: ensemble central ensemble central willemsoord: crossroads

From the establishment of Willemsoord, the central the central of Willemsoord, the establishment From most The formed the heart of the Colony. crossroads the house located there: important buildings were houses for with a warehouse, of the deputy director a spinning personnel of the Society of Benevolence, and the school with the hall with laundry room, house was the guest Subsequently house. teacher’s the buildings Today, at the crossroads. also established been partially renovated, have the crossroads around preserved. but the oblique positioning remained dating from church is the Dutch Reformed Nearby added. was room 1851, to which in 1898 a consistory period, to the construction dates back The organ arranged in orderly formation, at 100 metre intervals intervals formation, at 100 metre orderly in arranged facing the each with its front along long oak avenues, Each colony to the plot boundaries. and parallel road larger plot of farmland, which was house had its own and Wilhelminaoord. than the plots in Frederiksoord of a strip was there the house and the street Between boundary partition with either a low mostly garden, activities agricultural or no partition at all. After 1864, The Society reorganised. were in Willemsoord one farms, large ‘well-managed’ three established with the aim farm ribbons, at each of the existing The activities profitable. of making the agricultural den Bosch, Hoeve van Generaal Hoeve farms were The vocational Utrecht. and Hoeve Amsterdam Swieten van college Adriaan training agricultural founded in 1890 and closed School was Agricultural now. is located there house in 1901. A private down the Society of the beginning of the 20th century, At sold its possessions in Willemsoord. Benevolence has remained of Willemsoord The building structure although in some places the ribbon preserved, largely planting has the avenue has become denser and/or mostly farms were The colony partly disappeared. and expanded, or further developed replaced remained Utrecht Hoeve with some exceptions. farms underwent The other large preserved. well recognisable. but remained transformations, willemsoord: Landscape willemsoord: structure Willemsoord) were merged into Colony III. From III. From into Colony merged were Willemsoord) of the Colony land and buildings 1923 onwards, been changes have sold. Since then, numerous were including new housing and village expansion. made, is only a small part of this Colony Consequently, site. Heritage World as proposed The southern part of the Steenwijkerweg and the The southern part of the Steenwijkerweg farms, of colony consisted Wilhelminalaan Koningin The houses were in pairs on either side of the road. The parallel ribbon at the current Lohnislaan is also ribbon at the current The parallel Corner’, because or ‘The Jewish to as De Pol referred In the housed there. were colonists the Jewish which here, a small core was nineteenth century there A small Israelite has all but disappeared. now by as a small as well located here auxiliary school was cemetery (still and a Jewish a bathhouse synagogue, present). The large buildings of the Colony arose around the around arose of the Colony buildings The large at an angle of main roads intersection of the two new type of free A the case. as is still 45 degrees, intersecting ribbons in Willemsoord: emerged Colony the around farms and a village centre with colony was of Willemsoord the structure In 1822 crossroads. of Colony of the free emulated with the construction in the Southern Netherlands. Wortel The Colony of Willemsoord was established at a established was of Willemsoord The Colony Frederiksoord from kilometres of nearly 14 distance a two-hour journey at the Westvierdeparten), (via of the Society was The shape of the property time. of the Colony: parcellation a different for the reason with a ribbon intersecting roads of two a structure Along the east-west farms. of colony development ribbons: the for parallel room was connection there and den Boschweg/Löhnislaan van Generaal current cultivation The systematic the Amsterdamselaan. avenue landscape with a straight in a resulted out in with the open farmland parcelled structure, is a high There in between. (‘rooms’) blocks regular of openness in the landscape. degree Colonies of Benevolence

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but contains 17th century pipes. The 1868 rectory is designed in neo-classical style.

willemsoord: individual objects On the Koningin Wilhelminalaan and in the Jewish Corner, a small number of colony farms have remained preserved. The three large farms still exist, Hoeve Utrecht being the best-preserved. The Jewish cemetery, with a number of relicts, is located in the Jewish Corner. The cemetery was recently fenced and provided with contextual information. Apart from that, there are no visible remains of the Jewish presence, although the area is designated as an archaeologically interesting search location. The Vredehof cemetery was constructed in 1820.

westvierdeparten4 After 1825, Westvierdeparten was incorporated in Willemsoord and Oostvierdeparten in Wilhelminaoord. The structure of the landscape and the avenue planting still exist, but only a few colony houses remained preserved. Houses and farms were replaced within the structure. 7 Section Oorden and Parten 137

STATE 7.3.2 In the Netherlands, legislation for spatial planning In the Netherlands, being simplified and made and heritage is currently (formerly Act Heritage The new integral. more and other Act Buildings and Historic Monuments 2016. on 1 July into force legislation) has entered this Act heritage, to the immovable regard With and the the protection focuses on the preservation, of the built or landscaped objects (national restoration to Up monuments. monuments) and archaeological This Management Plan is based on the prevailing Plan is based on the prevailing This Management the current from following measures protection and visions and plans, and municipal provincial in the and directives implementation arrangements water. and nature landscape, heritage, field of space, term. In future, their own These plans each have new plans, when updating these plans and drafting into account. Where be taken the OUV will explicitly consistency to achieve possible it will be endeavoured the in the contents of the plans and to synchronise terms of the plans.

LEGAL AND POLICY LEGAL AND POLICY OORDEN FRAMEWORKS AND PARTEN

7.3 frameworks legal and policy legal and Safeguarding in Safeguarding 7.3.1 In respect of Oorden and Parten, different different Parten, and of Oorden In respect The Oorden and Parten are located in three located in three are and Parten The Oorden and Westerveld municipalities: Steenwijkerland, of Drenthe, in the provinces Weststellingwerf This means that respectively. Fryslân and Overijssel the policies and accompanying policy, besides State three municipalities and of three instruments apply in the area. provinces taken have the Netherlands authorities in governing protection decisions and adopted plans which provide A number of spatial of the heritage in the Colonies. to The main section is referred plans apply to the area. provided frameworks to the international with regard and legal the section this In State. the and UNESCO by applying to plans and regulations policy frameworks, and at national (specific Oorden and Parten Oorden dealt are and municipal level issues), provincial Parten with. Colonies of Benevolence

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2019, the spatial protection of the heritage values In this way, the protection of heritage (built in the Netherlands will be regulated through the monuments, archaeology, areas) nature and landscape, Spatial Planning Act (Wro). The new Environment and its incorporation in provincial and municipal & Planning Act, which will in future regulate the environmental visions, environmental plans and spatial protection of heritage values, will enter into environmental permits is and will be safeguarded in force in 2019. The Environment & Planning Act the Netherlands, as well as the harmonisation with offers good opportunities for the integral protection the water management plans of the water boards. of the OUV in areas, and for the integral assessment of developments. The Act contains separate, generic This Management Plan is based on the prevailing rules regarding the safeguarding of the qualities of a protection measures following from the current World Heritage site, and puts the State in a position provincial and municipal visions and plans, and to issue instructions to other governing authorities in implementation arrangements and directives in respect of the safeguarding of the values of UNESCO the field of space, heritage, landscape, nature and World Heritage sites. On the basis of the instructional water. Eventually, a serious reduction of these provision ‘world heritage’ in the Environment & frameworks will be achieved under the Environment Planning Act, it is considered to offer the Colonies & Planning Act. Upon the entry into force of the of Benevolence similar protection to that currently Environment & Planning Act, a generous transitional enjoyed by the World Heritage sites ‘De Beemster’ period will apply, which should allow provinces and ‘Stelling van Amsterdam’ (Defence Line of and municipalities to gradually start operating in Amsterdam). In consultation with the provinces, conformity with the Environment & Planning Act. municipalities and stakeholders involved, the State One of the consequences of this will be that during will establish further details of this instructional a transitional period, recently adopted prevailing provision. The objective of this exercise is to ensure zoning plans will serve as environmental plans. consistency in respect of the impact of policies in Moreover, it implies that also after the entry into force all the provinces and municipalities. This will take of the Environment & Planning Act, the protection of place in the context of a consistent framework of the OUV on the basis of the provincial and municipal agreements, focused on the adequate safeguarding frameworks will still be conducted in accordance with of the OUV of the Colonies of Benevolence. In various frameworks, in line with the existing practice. this context, further agreements will also be Part of the framework of agreements between the made concerning the transition of the prevailing State, provinces, municipalities and stakeholders, will frameworks (zoning plan) to the future frameworks be focused on the most effective way to organise the (environmental plan), including the period of process for optimising the protection of the OUV. transitional legislation. The overview below provides a diagrammatical As per 1 January 2017, in addition to the Heritage indication of the instruments through which the OUV, Act and the Environment & Planning Act, legislation and particularly the attributes, are/will be protected regarding nature areas will also change. From that by the State, provinces and municipalities5: date, the new Nature Conservation Act will replace the current Nature Conservation Act, the Flora and Fauna Act and the Forestry Act, and will eventually be incorporated in the Environment & Planning Act. This Act will also contribute to the preservation of the nature values related to the OUV. 7 Section Oorden and Parten 139 AFTER 2019 Instructional provision ‘world Instructional provision heritage’ vision province Environmental vision municipality Environmental plan (integral) Environmental permit Environmental ‘world Instructional provision heritage’ vision province Environmental vision municipality Environmental plan (integral) Environmental permit Environmental based on the Monument status State Act Heritage Monument regulations plan (integral) Environmental on Building Opinion Committee Aesthetics and Heritage/Quality Team permit Environmental Conservation Act Nature & in Environment incorporated Planning Act Municipal regulation PRIOR TO 2019 PRIOR TO Multiple designations Protected Protected designations Multiple villagescape based on the Monument & Historic Act Buildings visions provinces Environmental visions municipalities Structural plans on the basis of double Zoning zoning province policy Culture policy municipality Heritage permit Environmental Multiple designations Protected Protected designations Multiple based on the Monument villagescape Act Buildings & Historic visions provinces Environmental visions municipalities Structural plans Zoning plans: Underlying Landscape guidelines Architectural plan/map map heritage Cultural values Map of Archaeological Network National Ecological permit Environmental based on the Monument status State Act Heritage Monument regulations plans on the basis of double Zoning zoning on Building Opinion Committee Aesthetics and Heritage/Quality Team permit Environmental Act and and Fauna Act, Flora Forestry Conservation Act Nature Timber Municipal Bye-Law/ General varying interpretations Regulation, Plan Policy Tree ATTRIBUTES Typology Structure of the landscape Structure buildings Representative planting Representative Colonies of Benevolence

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Stakeholders include the Society of Benevolence, Frederiksoord, between the M.E. van de Meulenweg which still owns considerable property in major parts and the Wapserveensche Aa, and the sub-area southwest of Oorden and Parten, agriculture, and various other of the Burgemeester Wijnoldyweg and the Hoofdweg, parties, in particular site management organisations are outside the scope of the protected villagescape. The that have adopted and are implementing plans that status of the protected villagescape is legally safeguarded contribute to the protection, the preservation and in in the zoning plan and the corrective Revision Protected part the (renewed) visibility and perceptibility of the Villagescape Frederiksoord-Wilhelminaoord. This heritage values in Oorden and Parten. Plans which zoning plan has a double zoning value cultural heritage. take into account the values to be preserved on the For Oorden and Parten this means that part of the basis of the status of State-protected villagescape, property of Colonies I and II enjoys a protected status as and subsequently the instructional provision “world protected villagescape. heritage”. This chapter deals with the legal and policy frameworks of the governing authorities. The vision national monuments and plans of the Society of Benevolence will be dealt Part of the buildings and objects in Oorden and with in chapter 4, under Organisation. Parten designated as attribute enjoy protection as national monument (in addition there are several municipal and provincial monuments in the area protected villagescape with a protection and licensing regime). These are frederiksoord-wilhelminaoord mainly the buildings that illustrate and enrich the A major part of the property of Oorden and story of the Colonies. The preservation of the national Parten submitted for nomination was designated by monuments is adequately safeguarded on account of the State as protected villagescape in 2009, on the their designation. Per 1 July 2016, on the basis of the basis of the 1988 Monument & Historic Buildings Heritage Act, the following buildings and objects in Act. On 6 November 2009, the Frederiksoord- the area have been designated and are protected as Wilheminaoord area was designated by the State as national monument: protected villagescape on the basis of the Monument Frederiksoord: Colony houses Koningin & Historic Buildings Act. After entry into force of Wilhelminalaan 56, 57, 59, 67, 77, 85 and the Environment & Planning Act and the recognition 88, and Maj. Van Swietenlaan 5, 7 and as UNESCO World Heritage site, it is considered to 9, the Workshop, Gerard Adriaan van declare the instructional provision “world heritage” Swieten horticultural school/Office Society on the basis of the Environment & Planning Act of Benevolence, ditto School Maj. Van applicable to the entire property. Swietenlaan, Hoeve Koning Willem III, Farm M.E. v.d. Meulenweg, Post office, Doctor’s In the designation protected villagescape, some house, Residence Johannes van den Bosch. attributes in the context of the nomination have been Wilhelminaoord: Factory, Rustoord I and II, specified as non-characteristic elements within the main Farm, Hay barn, Colony houses on Koningin structure, and have been designated as not valuable as Wilhelminalaan 51 and M.A.van Naamen cultural heritage. This concerns some forest areas and van Eemneslaan 6, 10 and 64 , Rectory, building elements which were earmarked as attributes School Oranjelaan and School Schoollaan, (structure) for the purpose of the nomination. Another Schoolmaster’s house Schoollaan, Colonists’ point for attention is that the boundaries of the protected houses Jongkindt Conincklaan 5 and 8, and area are not entirely in line with the boundaries of General cemetery Oranjelaan. the property of Frederiksoord-Wilhelminaoord as Willemsoord: Organ of the Dutch Reformed specified in the nomination file. The southern part of church. 7 Section Oorden and Parten 141

of cultural heritage by securing it in by heritage of cultural heritage structure; a main cultural the spatial identity of Drenthe. reinforce cultural heritage compass compass heritage cultural of drenthe province The province is committed to recognisability is committed to recognisability The province aims to the province heritage, cultural Through — — — — The provincial policy focuses on the preservation policy focuses on the preservation The provincial planting along of the avenue and reinforcement and structure the cultivation the main access road, mass and space and the the alternation between and the intervals. ribbon development characteristic the Compass provides Heritage The Cultural of policy in respect for the provincial framework following with the and space, heritage cultural objective: The Cultural Heritage Compass is intended to be a Heritage The Cultural Municipalities and a guideline. of inspiration source the to assess their zoning plans against expected are basic principles of the Compass. located The Colonies of the Society of Benevolence Frederiksoord-Wilhelminaoord, i.e. in Drenthe, and Veenhuizen, (Westerveld), including Boschoord houses of with colony structure but also the road (located and Westvierdeparten Oostvierdeparten form part of the main of Fryslân) in the province In the description, the heritage structure. cultural of orthogonal lines (roads structure hierarchical planting and buildings and the and waterways), these elements of cohesion between high degree Frederiksoord For designated as characteristic. are with Colony the agricultural and Wilhelminaoord, farms and facilities situated at the main axes, colony estate, as the subjacent older Westerbeeksloot as well for Characteristic designated as characteristic. are in the afforestation. axes the main are Boschoord In the territories of the Society of Benevolence, the and reinforce aims to maintain the province and of the areas and orthogonal layout hierarchical areas open between alternation the of preservation the

PROVINCES of Drenthe Province access roads, lined with avenue planting; avenue lined with access roads, allotment structure, a block-shaped and open spaces alternating; with forest of in the architecture the hierarchy the adjacent buildings (frequently axis), at right angles to the cultivation intervals. with regular 7.3.3 7.3.3.1 vision environmental update drenthe 2014 The rectilinear, structure defining (main) structure The rectilinear, landscape with The orthogonal, engineered and of ribbon development The structure — — — — — — The Environmental Vision describes the provincial describes the provincial Vision The Environmental of Drenthe spatial economic vision for the future and The preservation for the period up to 2020. elements, landscape of exceptional reinforcement is part of the such as the Society of Benevolence, that explicitly states vision. In the vision, the province of special character very the it intends to preserve (and associated areas) the Colonies of Frederiksoord The province it accessible. and make and Veenhuizen, and spatial economic in the cultural intends to invest serving as with the past in these areas, developments The landscape of the future. for of inspiration a source as being of is designated the Colonies of Benevolence as regards: interest provincial On the basis of the designation as protected On the basis of the designation as protected a licensing national monument, villagescape and/or In case of applications for obligation applies. a building permit, a demolition permit or an obliged to permit, municipalities are environmental Committee. the advice of the Monuments request villagescape the strictest in the protected Moreover, also for those buildings apply, building regulations not been designated that have and building structures as (national) monument. Colonies of Benevolence

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and forest complexes. In the supplementary cultural a very modest building (de Koloniehof ). The social heritage policy Frederiksoord, Wilhelminaoord significance of the free Colony and the status of and the property of Boschoord are designated as UNESCO World Heritage site to be acquired, require ‘top location’ where the highest standards apply in a different approach. This is one of the reasons for respect of policy commitment. The province opts the purchase by the Society of Benevolence of the for an area-specific policy here, with requirements Inforium in Frederiksoord. It is the intention to to be imposed on developments in the area. In the establish the renovated museum/visitors’ centre here, event of spatial developments, the province wishes under the name of Colony Centre (Koloniecentrum). to be involved in the planning process at an early Besides the audience from the north, national and stage, in a contributing and proactive role. Initiators international visitors interested in world heritage are expected to consider the cohesion of the cultural can be welcomed here. The story of the origins of heritage as the primary framework for new plans. the Society will be told here in a contemporary and The main challenge for the Colonies of Benevolence attractive way, in the case of Frederiksoord with the is to maintain the quality of life in the territories and focus on the free Colonies. The story of Johannes to find and incorporate new economic impulses. In van den Bosch and the Society of Benevolence after this respect, the province has committed itself to a all actually started off in Frederiksoord. Together development philosophy in which the cohesion of the with the museums/visitors’ centres in Veenhuizen, cultural heritage of the areas is a guiding factor and a Ommerschans and Merksplas, work has already source of inspiration for a sustainable development. started on a joint project (‘one history, five stories’).

The chapter connecting and renewing examines culture memorandum 2017–2020 the Colonies of Benevolence in depth. The province province of drenthe; the image of of Drenthe has expressed a strong commitment in drenthe (de verbeelding van drenthe) respect of the Colonies of Benevolence and is the The Memorandum states that in the coming period driving force behind the process to achieve the the province will make an extra investment in the definitive nomination as transnational and serial two museums/visitors’ centres in both Colonies of World Heritage Site in 2018. This includes drawing Benevolence located in the province: Frederiksoord up a nomination file and a Management Plan, and Veenhuizen. The Colony Centre in Frederiksoord but also the continued communication about the has been added to the four existing museums of programme and involvement of the many partners. provincial interest. For the period 2017–2020, the At the same time, the province is preparing for the museums of provincial interest will receive a fixed situation following the decision of the World Heritage amount of subsidy per year, on condition that they Committee (the nomination is on the agenda of the present a clear plan specifying their activities in the Committee for the summer of 2018). The province year concerned. of Drenthe is willing to assume the role of ‘site holder’, first point of contact, in the Netherlands, In the course of the process leading to the definitive in conjunction with a party at provincial level in acquisition of the status of UNESCO World Heritage Belgium. At overarching level, the management site, both museums in the Colonies will receive an should ensure good communication and coordination extra boost. These museums already collaborate, between the Colonies. This in any event applies to: also with the visitors’ centres in the other Colonies harmonisation of the management of the individual of Benevolence, with a view to increasing the size of Colonies, dealing with possible threats to the areas, their audience. At present, the museum function in communication and education, and the coordination Frederiksoord is small-scale, and accommodated in of the monitoring and the reporting obligations to 7 Section Oorden and Parten 143 regulation romte fryslân 2011 (space 2011 (space fryslân romte regulation 2011) fryslân This Regulation Romte translates provincial provincial translates Romte This Regulation In rules for municipalities. policy into general the commitment to integrating the regulations qualities of the landscape is in the core developments but in virtually all possible, are Developments evident. integrated condition that they are to the cases linked do qualities of the landscape type and/or in the core affect the landscape characteristics. not negatively municipalities to requires this end, the Regulation To in their planning, include a spatial quality paragraph qualities of the landscape and the in which the core into taken new functions are capacity for integrating municipalities also requires account. The Regulation into account the their plans take to specify how heritage elements and the method of research cultural as indicated values of archaeological and protection heritage map and FAMKE. cultural on the provincial and of a spatial quality paragraph The provisions heritage to cultural of the approach a justification important control are values and archaeological of the OUV. for the preservation frameworks of Oostvierdeparten and Westvierdeparten (Quality and Westvierdeparten of Oostvierdeparten Team). Plan 2007 offers scope for agricultural The Regional it fits Fryslân, provided in South East development The plan qualities of the landscape. in with the core offers opportunities for up-scaling, extensification, subsidiary activities and forestry. through broadening on the basis of area- The decision should be taken Plaets’ Nije ‘de project The oriented customisation. set up to at an early was Farm’) (Frisian for ‘the New with plans for up- advice to farmers provide stage of the integration to guide them in respect and scaling, In 2011, building plots in the landscape. of agricultural the municipalities; by over taken was the organisation of Hûs en the implementation is the responsibility Hiem.

Province of Fryslân Province 7.3.3.2 2007 regional plan fryslân 2013 evaluation and mid-term UNESCO. All the parties in the steering group are are group All the parties in the steering UNESCO. Governing financing. to continue structural expected for the a generic responsibility authorities retain and accessibility of the heritage and for preservation the major stakeholders Meanwhile, spatial planning. landowners large such as for example in the areas, organisations, agricultural (Society of Benevolence, in the will be closely involved Commission), Forestry and accessibility. preservation organisation, The landscape and cultural heritage qualities and The landscape and cultural Plan and in the described in the Regional are values Map Monuments underlying Frisian Archaeological In addition Map. Heritage and the Cultural (FAMKE) responsibility Plan, the provincial to the Regional is further and archaeology heritage for cultural The 2010. Memorandum Heritage defined in the and vision on preservation and integral explicit and cultural of the landscape qualities development it clear that make as spatial quality, heritage values of support for the preservation is provincial there The intention to heritage. landscape and cultural and the commitment to take values, clearly define the at an early stage into account qualities and values important are of spatial developments, in respect of the for the protection management requirements qualities of the landscape The designated core OUV. (Bekengebied/ Forests Area/Southern type Streams Heritage the World where Wouden), Zuidelijke and Westvierdeparten territories Oostvierdeparten respect. sufficient basis in this located, provide are in peat (waterways ‘wijken’ The designation of canals, planting and paths with avenue and roads districts) the orientation of the elements, as structuring and the perpendicular to the main roads, parcellation alternation of open, semi-open landscape, and closed The of the OUV. in line with the development are in the a role can play Team Spatial Quality Provincial area the Colony in assessment of spatial developments Colonies of Benevolence

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grutsk op ‘e romte (proud of the cultural heritage and economy, and creating support space): structural vision concerning and increasing audience reach. The provincial the quality of the space cultural heritage values themselves are specified on The structural vision Grutsk op ‘e romte constitutes a the Cultural Heritage Map and the Archaeological further analysis and valuation of the core qualities of Monuments Map. A number of attributes of the cultural heritage and the landscape, as described Oostvierdeparten and Westvierdeparten are marked in the Regional Plan 2007 and the associated on this map, but a reference to the Frisian part of the Regulation Romte. The emphasis on the integral Colonies (Oostvierdeparten and Westvierdeparten) preservation and restoration of the valuable landscape as valuable cultural heritage landscape is lacking. and cultural heritage structures at provincial and The Regional Plan in conjunction with the Cultural regional level is in line with the intention to preserve Heritage Map and the Workbook Landscape, Cultural the cohesive landscape of the Colonies. In Grutsk Heritage and Urban Design constitute the basis for op ‘e romte, the area of Oostvierdeparten and the integration of cultural heritage in the planning of Westvierdeparten is designated as landscape and the municipality of Weststellingwerf. The Cultural cultural heritage structure of provincial interest. Heritage Map contains a detailed overview of the Important aspects for the preservation of the OUV existing cultural heritage elements and structures are the valuation of the total of the water systems, the in the province of Fryslân. This can be an important parcellation, the settlements in their surroundings tool with regard to the visibility and accessibility and the structure of the settlements as four of the of the valuable cultural heritage elements in the ten top structures of Fryslân. At regional South province. Several attributes in Oostvierdeparten East Fryslân level, the designation of values of the and Westvierdeparten are indicated on the map. It elongated, ribbon-shaped structures of canals and concerns the parcellation and the majority of the roads (with planting) with and without buildings, (filled in) water structure (‘wijken’). However, the and with the systematically constructed plots and area of the Society of Benevolence is not included as a ‘wijken’ perpendicular to these and the rather robust valuable cohesive area, nor is the history of the Society green structure of belts, wooden fences, larger and articulated in the descriptions of the parcellation and smaller forest complexes and tree plantings along the water structure. roads, are particularly supportive in respect of the preservation of the OUV. In addition to the valuation environmental vision per structure, advice is also issued on how to deal with province of fryslân this structure. This advice is binding for the province. Between 2016 and 2018, the province of Fryslân will In this way, the preservation of the OUV is adequately draw up an Environmental Vision, which will cover safeguarded at provincial level. cultural history and heritage. The vision is related to the aforementioned thematic structural vision “Grutsk heritage memorandum 2010–2013 op ‘e romte”, in which the Colonies of Benevolence (extended 2015) and cultural heritage are specified as a valuable area as regards landscape map fryslân and cultural heritage, with a globally relevant history. the Heritage Memorandum designates heritage as an important pillar of the spatial quality of Fryslân. The province is committed to the preservation and 7.3.3.3 Province of Overijssel development of this heritage, by the integral inclusion of heritage in spatial developments, an area-specific environmental vision approach, the encouragement of private initiatives province of overijssel to invest in heritage, realising connections between The province of Overijssel has laid down its policy for 7 Section Oorden and Parten 145 examined. A positive aspect in this regard aspect in this regard A positive examined. emphasises the is that the vision strongly importance of building on the characteristic in landscapes of agricultural structures to in order case of spatial developments, The spatial quality. and reinforce preserve heath and of the young characterisation in which landscape, marsh cultivation of the the supporting linear structures and the waterways of forest, tracts avenues, and generous with yards ribbons cultivation come to spatial dimensions (openness) have of this landscape, determine the appearance of the values aligned with the core is well a guideline for the and provides OUV, of the OUV. preservation of the control cultural policy cultural The heritage policy is set out in the Culture The heritage policy is set out in the Culture in de 2017 – 2020 “Cultuur Memorandum en vernieuwen” versterken verbinden, schijnwerpers, and reinforcing connecting, (Spotlight on culture, and the Implementation Programme renewing) Culture In the – 2020. 2017 Overijssel Culture are the Colonies of Benevolence Memorandum, theme of exceptional designated as a historic that reason, For of Overijssel. for the identity interest specific will receive the Colonies of Benevolence the Culture by attention in the policy period covered Memorandum. Spatial developments should entail a reinforcement should entail a reinforcement Spatial developments of of the spatial quality on the basis of the Catalogue also when the municipality deviates Features, Area the present, vision. At the environmental from status particular a grant not does vision environmental of Willemsoord. of the Colony to the heritage value Vision of the Environmental revision In the 2016 heritage values this has changed, and the cultural located of the parts of the Colonies of Benevolence are and Ommerschans, Willemsoord in Overijssel, to and indicated on the map referred explicitly Vision. this Environmental accompanying Paasloregel/Koningin Wilhelminalaan: Wilhelminalaan: Paasloregel/Koningin the designation by is covered this area with emphasis scope for area “outlying landscape multiple uses”. This is a mixed farming), arable and (dairy agriculture with In these and housing. water nature, is a of agriculture the development areas, development. guiding factor for the area The primary ambition is to build on the of the agrarian structures characteristic A combination of landscape. cultural housing leisure, space for agriculture, and and other activities while preserving nature heritage, the cultural reinforcing is a guideline for and landscape elements, Scope is offered development. the area but in the area, agriculture for large-scale up for rules will be drawn clear operational in small-scale landscapes. the integration into account when The OUV will be taken up such rules; drawing the designation “outlying by is covered Further with emphasis production”. area modernisation, up-scaling intensive and concerns It possible here. are stock-farming of spatial customisation where areas ribbon development waterways, avenues, with in full harmony are of forest and tracts emphasis on the The economies of scale. function suits the character agricultural Heritage of the Colonies and the World nomination, but the focus on up-scaling may of of the logic consequences in respect have In case landscape and the OUV. the historic the site, Heritage of designation as World potential for economies of scale appropriate to be carefully to the OUV will have The Colony area of Willemsoord south of the of Willemsoord area The Colony this area territory north of the road: The Colony — — — — the physical environment in the Environmental Vision Vision in the Environmental environment the physical associated implementation programme and Overijssel located in of Willemsoord, area Colony The of 2009. two by is covered the municipality of Steenwijkerland, Vision: in the Environmental designations area Colonies of Benevolence

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7.3.4 MUNICIPALITIES The spatial protection of the Colony area is safeguarded in a number of zoning plans, the management regulation outlying area and 7.3.4.1 Steenwijkerland (underlying) policy documents: —— Zoning Plan Northern Cores (Noordelijke spatial policy Kernen): The zoning plan applies to In anticipation of the Environment & Planning Act, the built-up area of Willemsoord at the the municipality of Steenwijkerland is drafting intersection Steenwijkerweg/Paasloregel- the Environmental Vision Steenwijkerland, in Koningin Wilhelminalaan within the which the municipality sets out the direction of its Olde Meinenbos and the railway and A32 environmental policy for a period of 10 to 15 years. In motorway. The planning area includes the consultation with the local stakeholders an agenda buildings situated adjacent to the historic for the future has been drawn up, in which seven ribbon as well as the surrounding post- central themes which require an integrated approach war development areas. The zoning plan have been identified. The Environmental Vision deals northern cores is of a preservative nature. with the identity of Steenwijkerland and with the For entirely new spatial developments ambitions in respect of the seven themes. In addition, or (large-scale) extensions of business a number of thematical visions and programmes are functions or other activities which spatially specified with a more operational character, such as a affect the surrounding, a separate spatial Housing Vision. decision-making process will be required. The protection of the cultural heritage In the agenda for the future it is indicated that values is anchored through the inclusion of Steenwijkerland is a rural municipality, with a tailor-made double zoning Value Cultural agricultural activities, the natural environment and Heritage, based on the areas of high spatial recreation as characteristic elements for the identity quality set out in the Policy Document of the municipality. These will be the central elements Northern Cores. In Willemsoord, the in the further development of the outlying area, double zoning applies to the historic ribbon with recreation and tourism being regarded as an and the adjacent buildings. Therefore, the important opportunity for the future. double zoning covers the most important iconic attributes of the OUV: the main road In respect of the specification of the values of the structure with avenue planting and the landscape, the Landscape Development Plan (LOP) collective facilities at the crossroads and and the strategic vision for the outlying area will be the building structure. This offers adequate adhered to while the Environmental Vision is in the protection for the main attributes of the making. For the ‘strong cultural heritage element’ OUV. In addition, a licensing obligation Willemsoord, the target is to further reinforce applies to partly or entirely planting or the cultural heritage, visibly and in line with the felling of trees and changing the spatial landscape. Intensification and transformation are development or landscape structure; considered necessary in order to keep the area —— Zoning Plan Residential Recreational Sites attractive. The development of the strategic vision for Steenwijkerland: Three residential the outlying area offers adequate protection for the recreational sites are located in the buffer OUV, and the characteristics of the landscape on the zone Willemsoord. These are called De basis of the LOP are consistent with the OUV. Bosrand, Het Veentje and holiday park ’t Eeser Heideveld. The majority of the 7 Section Oorden and Parten 147 A pilot is running to Steenwijkerland: Steenwijkerland: allow for the adoption (planningallow 2017) of outlying area zoning plan the overarching under the Crisis and scope, with extended in (Crisis- en herstelwet), Act Recovery plan anticipation of the environmental the by be required which will eventually (expected & Planning Act Environment is possible that a It 2019). entry into force double zoning will be applied in the pilot. management regulation then, the Until Separate will apply to the outlying area. area zoning plans apply to the built-up and the residential of Willemsoord of the property Part sites. recreational to is located in the area Willemsoord applies. which the management regulation does not The management regulation Cultural include the double zoning Value The management regulation Heritage. the between is an intermediate step outlying area policy document zoning plan of the new and the development (2012) The plan outlying area. environmental the framework policy document provides for assessment of new developments of objective The main and initiatives. plan the management regulation/zoning for is to continue to allow outlying area in the outlying area, spatial developments qualities of the that the core provided or reinforced. preserved landscape are this end, the management regulation To system. for a planning permit provides or preservation The condition regarding qualities of the of the core reinforcement landscape in case of new developments for the to allow sufficient basis provides of the OUV. of the safeguarding control The description of the characteristics of the landscape is in line with the OUV. The policy principles and conditions heritage and cultural for archaeology, Management Regulation Outlying Area Outlying Area Regulation Management — — sites are occupied on a permanent basis occupied sites are with a and mobile homes, caravans by Eeser number of additional spots at ’t The for passers through. Heideveld Sites Recreational zoning plan Residential sites, to the three applies Steenwijkerland the single zoning Recreation, stipulating Sites 1 and the double zoning Recreational is The zoning plan 2. value Archaeology, plan, primarily a management-oriented with spatial planning rules included for the licensed situation. The plan does not cater sites. of the recreational for expansion The possibility of placing mobile homes situation, on these sites is an existing To which has been zoned accordingly. zoning the prevailing expansion, prevent plan specifies a maximum number of site. mobile homes within the recreational is limited for the entrepreneur Flexibility and is focused boundaries to the existing If of the sites. mainly on the organisation been the maximum amount has not yet it is possible to accommodate reached, additional mobile homes within the terms of the zoning plan. This right is stipulated be therefore in the zoning plan and must the landscape prevent To as a given. taken in the developments being affected by conditions necessary recreation, field of in the landscape for each for integration been included in type of landscape have the to integrate the zoning plan. In order a green landscape, sites in this recreational sites has been the zone around border included in the zoning plan. However, of this zone is not of protection the level The negative in all places. equally strong of mobile homes in effect of the presence the the landscape is compensated for by the zone around of a green incorporation as a situation is taken The existing sites. given; Colonies of Benevolence

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landscape provide an appropriate trees (for example red beech at teacher’s house) and framework for the control of the protection planting structure on the avenues is not historically of the OUV. For new developments that do protected as a separate entity through a document not fit within the rules of the regulation, such as a list of trees. However, a timber regulation either a separate permit must be obtained stipulates a replanting obligation if tree felling is or a planning procedure must be followed allowed. to which the provincial requirement for reinforcement of the spatial quality also heritage policy applies. In the integral Heritage Memorandum Steenwijkerland 2012–2014, the heritage policy of the municipality Through the 2007 Integral Vision Public Space in respect of monument care, archaeology and Steenwijkerland: Public space in condition, landscape is set out. It is the ambition to incorporate Steenwijkerland has laid down a policy framework the use and perception of heritage as a valuable and for the design, organisation, management and appreciated part of society, and to that end: preserve maintenance of public space in Steenwijkerland for a the heritage, where possible develop it or include it period of 20 years. The vision functions as a manual in spatial developments, and enhance its perception. and assessment framework for interventions in public One of the points of action is the nomination of space. The basic principle is that the design and Willemsoord for inscription on the UNESCO World layout of public space is in line with the (historic) Heritage List, making the nomination a formal part surroundings and the identity of Steenwijkerland. of the heritage policy. The various provisions of the The ideals and principles per sub-area are in outline heritage policy are important tools or frameworks consistent with the OUV. The guidelines focus on for the protection of the OUV. In the Heritage the preservation of and the building on the regional Regulation, the municipality regulates the designation characteristics per core and in the rural area. This and preservation and the supervision of municipal also includes the protection of iconic greenery, the monuments, including the municipal monuments encouragement of regional building styles, and the designated as attributes: the Jewish cemetery at realisation of yard planting typical for the region. De Pol, and the farm Hoeve Utrecht (Koningin Starting point is that new construction should be Wilhelminalaan 42). This regulation provides a future in line with the ‘natural’ plot size and the existing basis for the designation of attributes that currently building lines, and that historical road and water do not enjoy monumental status as municipal structures are restored or reinforced. Consequently, monument (this applies to the general cemetery the guidelines provide ample tools for the proper Vredehof ). The crossroads is currently spatially, but safeguarding of the OUV. Also in 2007, a 10-year not specifically historically protected. Protection vision providing a framework for the realisation, the of the crossroads is provided by the zoning plan, in management and the maintenance of public green which the positioning of the buildings via the building spaces was supplied with the adoption of the Policy blocks is laid down and safeguarded. An investigation document Greenery. This document is relevant for the might be started into the location of the synagogue, development of the avenue planting in Willemsoord. bathhouse and school, in order to be able to pinpoint In the context of the World Heritage nomination, the exact location and place it under archaeological the principle with regard to the preservation and protection. reinforcement of the regional identity and the completion, restoration and reinforcement of The building aesthetics policy of the municipality of landscape structures is important. Where still present, Steenwijkerland is set out in the Building Aesthetics the avenue planting is designated as green basis. The Policy Document. The implementation of the building 7 Section Oorden and Parten 149 On 25 Frederiksoord-Wilhelminaoord: Frederiksoord-Wilhelminaoord: January 2011, the zoning plan protected 2011, the zoning plan protected January and villagescape Frederiksoord of the municipality of Wilhelminaoord adopted. Since then, a was Westerveld number of omissions in the zoning plan been identified, which necessitated have to this zoning plan. In adjustments addition, the Society of Benevolence the regulations to review has requested some parts, in and the representation for the protection to provide in order houses and of the colony characteristics within the protective houses the distinctive have These amendments villagescape. revision been included in the corrective villagescape Frederiksoord- protected (adopted 31 March Wilhelminaoord revision 2015). Because the corrective of the zoning plan parts only reviews it Frederiksoord-Wilhelminaoord, result of the read. As a is difficult to Zoning Plan Protected Villagescape Protected Plan Zoning — — map, and a number of roads of the OUV (attributes) and a number of roads map, Frederiksoord- roads. as historic designated are also specifically are and Boschoord Wilhelminaoord of cultural designated as gems on the map; highlights In the individual village heritage in Westerveld. the structural up in conjunction with passports drawn heritage to the cultural vision, attention is drawn landscape in the villages in the Colony of the values in of Zorgvlied) the exception (with area Colony for UNESCO nomination procedure to the relation the vision Consequently, status. Heritage World to manage the preservation sufficient control provides of future of the development of the OUV in respect policies and the assessment of spatial developments outside the zoning plan. These area. plans apply to the Colony zoning Different provide they that way a such in up set are plans zoning for the and means of control protection proper in accordance of developments adequate integration The zoning plans concerned are: with the OUV. Westerveld 7.3.4.2 policy spatial a broad outline is a broad Westerveld, Vision In the Structural for the spatial developments of the planned provided point Starting up to 2025. municipality of Westerveld a green, for the vision is the identity of Westerveld: municipality with an unprecedented agricultural and landscape values heritage, of cultural wealth is the preservation The basis ecological values. heritage values, cultural of the and reinforcement In qualities. and other core the landscape values in the municipality areas the Colony this respect, of parts of the anticipate the OUV and the status In the villagescape. as protected area Colony municipality, the of structure spatial the of description is the heritage of the Society of Benevolence heritage. valuable cultural specifically designated as villagescape Frederiksoord- The protected vision is indicated on the structural Wilhelminaoord aesthetics assessment is the responsibility of the responsibility assessment is the aesthetics The Oversticht. Committee of Het Aesthetics Building written to Document was Policy Aesthetics Building to understand and enable citizens inspiration provide of their building for the assessment the framework the municipality of Steenwijkerland, Within plans. distinguished, are and cores 29 landscape sub-areas criteria. building aesthetics each with area-specific landscape is located in the push moraine Willemsoord of the property Most Oldemarkt and De Eese. between landscape heath cultivation is located in the sub-area at A small part of the property, Willemsoord. around is located in the point of Paasloregel, the westernmost the division does not However, Kampen landscape. policy of the building aesthetics affect the consistency because no built site, Heritage the World of in respect concerned. The situated in the area attributes are Document Policy Aesthetics of the Building revision of the nomination pace with the development keeps and provides file and the formulation of the OUV, the opportunity to include building aesthetics to the OUV if required. tailored requirements Colonies of Benevolence

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digital obligation, both plans can only structural level in line with the OUV. The be consulted separately. In order to nomination of the area as UNESCO World nevertheless publish a zoning plan Heritage site is also referred to in the which can be properly consulted on explanation. Most of the attributes of the www.ruimtelijkeplannen.nl, the current OUV are already safeguarded through the consolidated version has been produced. zoning plan by means of the (combination This consolidated version is a combination of a) double zoning Value Cultural of the zoning plan Frederiksoord- Heritage, the characteristic housing zoning Wilhelminaoord and the corrective revision and the (preservative) zonings designated; protected villagescape Frederiksoord- —— Zoning Plan Outlying Area: The zoning plan Wilhelminaoord. In this version the Outlying Area provides the spatial regulations and the representation have framework for developments in the rural been included as if it were one single zoning area of the municipality of Westerveld. plan. This consolidated version has no legal Within the boundaries of the property status, but it does show the legal rules to currently designated, the zoning plan date. For the official prevailing rules, the two covers parts of Boschoord and Wateren separate zoning plans are referred to. The and the southern part of Frederiksoord, explanation of the zoning plan protected between the M.E. van de Meulenweg and villagescape Frederiksoord-Wilhelminaoord the Wapserveensche Aa and between is annexed to the consolidated plan. It can the Hoofdweg and the Burgemeester also be consulted with the zoning plan Wijnoldyweg. The protected villagescape Frederiksoord-Wilhelminaoord. Frederiksoord-Wilhelminaoord, Zorgvlied, The content of the zoning plan is a farmyard at the intersection of Wateren of a preservative nature, but at the same and the Lange Drift, the site of recreational time development-oriented. Through the farm Alberthoeve in Wateren and the zoning plan, the municipality intends ‘to site of the Foundation Trajectum around protect and preserve the characteristics (farm) Hoeve Boschoord are located of the area by means of carefully tailored outside the planning area. For these regulations, but in addition also to create areas separate zoning plans have been new development opportunities, one of the drawn up. The zoning plan is mainly of a aims being to improve the quality of life preservative nature. The landscape and the in the area’. To this end, the zoning plan cultural heritage of Westerveld determine includes regulations for the reconstruction the conditions for the other functions and new construction of 62 colony houses, in the outlying area and for the new the restoration of the characteristic water developments. The architectural guidelines structure (for example the renovation of accompanying the zoning plan Outlying the winding hole of the Westerbeeksloot Area and the Building Aesthetics Policy barge canal) and the preservation and Document jointly provide the framework restoration of the avenue planting and the for assessment of developments affecting characteristic road structure. The plan the landscape. In the outlying area, the recognises, and as a consequence protects, structure is fully protected through the the outstanding cultural heritage value planning permit system. This system is of the area. The description of the spatial focused exclusively on cultural heritage characteristics in the explanation is on a value. Consequently, the instruments to 7 Section Oorden and Parten 151 heritage policy policy heritage Document, the Policy Aesthetics In the Building policy for the municipality of building aesthetics heritage has played is set out. Cultural Westerveld building in the division into different role a key in the municipality, iconic areas For areas. aesthetics to ensure up in order policy has been drawn a separate designated are These areas the quality of the areas. The building area. building aesthetics as outstanding to promote are criteria for these areas aesthetics of The area values. of the existing the preservation within the protected the Society of Benevolence There is a blank space in the municipality on account is a blank There not Frederiksoord of the Zoning Plan Residence the the beginning of 2016 been adopted. At having of the ownership regained Society of Benevolence attention to land, and the municipality will resume this to address order in issues, spatial development in the zoning plan. in a technical sense spatial flaw for the in the area Scope will possibly be provided The protection houses. of six new colony construction is of the heritage in the heart of Frederiksoord protected decree on the basis of the State provided of the villagescape and the monument status the up by to be followed this will have but buildings, rules protective similar that time, zoning plan. Until as indicated in the zoning plan will apply to the area sufficient These rules provide villagescape. protected developments possibilities to control and protection a zoning plan However, the OUV. to protect in order be developed. should still for this area Plan The municipality has a Landscape Development vision which forms the basis for the structural (LOP), The municipality and a number of zoning plans. which Plan, Policy Tree a separate has prepared of and the preservation contributes to the protection woodlands and structures avenue valuable existing the of trees, On the basis of the list area. in the Colony is ensured. in the area trees of valuable the protection Municipal in the General policy is anchored The tree in a is safeguarded and and in zoning plans, Bye-Law felling concession system. The zoning The zoning plan Kernen): (Kleine Within the Colony area, the zoning plan area, the Colony Within of the north Zorgvlied the core covers The zoning plan is Verwersweg/Wateren. the and ensures nature of a preservative of characteristics of structure preservation structure) (secondary road the Dorpsstraat (main road and the Verwersweg/Wateren planting and front with avenue structure also The area and ‘overtuinen’). gardens contains the location of the Agricultural which is a component of Wateren, Institute of the Colonies; the story be able to control the preservation and the and the preservation be able to control included in the the OUV are of protection zoning plan; concerns the care facility of Foundation facility of Foundation concerns the care In Boschoord. Hoeve around Trajectum a building Boschoord, Hoeve the area Conincklaan (part of on the Jongkindt of Foundation Eikenhof farm De care and a number feature a water Trajectum), been designated as of plot boundaries have supporting attributes for the formulation not iconic are these However, of the OUV. attributes in need of specific protection. within the zoning The scope offered up to development plan for greenhouse square of 2.500 a maximum built up area in the integration proper requires metres the to protect also in order landscape, OUV; plan concerns the site of the recreational plan concerns the site of the recreational The in Wateren. business Alberthoeve of for expansion zoning plan allows on the basis of a previously Alberthoeve, plan. The 2011 up development drawn in as a given is regarded planning process nomination. Heritage to the World relation Wateren: Alberthoeve Plan Zoning Cores Small Plan Zoning Zoning Plan Hoeve Boschoord: Boschoord: Hoeve Plan Zoning — — — — — — Colonies of Benevolence

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villagescape is one of the areas in respect of which a that are currently located outside the protected specific building aesthetics policy was developed. In villagescape Frederiksoord-Wilhelminaoord. this policy a distinction is made between protected colony houses, unprotected existing colony houses, The municipality is a major monument municipality new colony houses in ribbons with existing houses and is granted the confidence and the freedom by and new colony houses in undeveloped ribbons. To the Cultural Heritage Agency of the Netherlands supplement the zoning plan, criteria for detailing, use (RCE) to make its own considered choices. In the of materials and colour, and plot design have been event of specific developments, additional advice included for these buildings in the Building Aesthetics will be requested from the Spatial Quality Committee Policy Document. of the RCE.

For the buildings within the protected villagescape without cultural heritage value, the criteria for the 7.3.4.3 Weststellingwerf systematically designed housing areas (development areas) apply. For the small industrial estate in In the Structural Plan Weststellingwerf, the Wilhelminaoord the criteria for industrial estates municipality presents the outlines of a comprehensive apply. Both areas are subject to regular building and overarching vision for the future (spatial) aesthetics policy. development of the municipal territory of Weststellingwerf for the period 2000–2015. The plan For the buildings in the property outside the protected is intended as an integral assessment framework and villagescape, the criteria for the outlying area, nature an implementation framework for the consideration areas (the area within the Drents-Friese Wold and integration of spatial developments in the National Park) and recreational sites (the recreational (medium or) long term. The wish to preserve sites within the property) apply. The characteristic the quality of landscape and cultural heritage and monumental buildings in the outlying area are in the rural area is translated into a strict policy subject to special buildings aesthetics policy. For the regarding the expansion of village and ribbon. The other buildings within the building aesthetics areas, establishment of new public housing in the outlying regular building aesthetics policy applies, with the area is ruled out. The specific Colony cultivation of proviso that for agricultural buildings, industrial Oostvierdeparten and Westvierdeparten is designated buildings and barns, the colour scheme of the Society as characteristic of the landscape within the heath of Benevolence applies as regards the use of materials cultivation, where the buildings on either side of and colour. The building aesthetics policy for the the Colony settlement of small farms established municipality of Westerveld offers goo opportunities by the Society of Benevolence can partially still be for the preservation and protection of the OUV. recognised. The crossroads between Oostvierdeparten and Westvierdeparten and the Nieuweweg/ The municipality has a Heritage Regulation (dating Koningin Wilhelminalaan and the orientation of from 2014, to be revised in 2017 in accordance with the parcellation (plot boundaries) have also been the Heritage Act) based on which the designation of designated as valuable cultural heritage. The vision municipal monuments and municipally protected in the Structural Plan provides sufficient guarantees townscapes or villagescapes, and their preservation, for the preservation and protection of the OUV and can be regulated. This regulation provides a basis does not constitute a threat in that respect. Under the for granting a municipally protected status after Environment & Planning Act, the Structural Plan will the UNESCO status has been obtained to attributes be replaced by an as yet to be drawn up environmental without monumental status or parts of the property vision. 7 Section Oorden and Parten 153 heritage policy heritage area. The requirements and provisions in the zoning and provisions The requirements area. of spatial, for the preservation plan Outlying Area heritage cultural landscape and in parts of the area the ample opportunities to control provide quality, OUV. of the and the protection preservation policy of the municipality is The building aesthetics Document Policy Aesthetics in the Building laid down Guidelines Architectural and the Weststellingwerf . The municipality Areas Heritage Cultural Valuable policy as a means to uses the building aesthetics spatial development heritage, the cultural protect territories, in the different values and architectonic in the development a role play these values and have The building and assessment of building plans. the Building out by assessment is carried aesthetics Hûs en Hiem. In the Policy Committee of Aesthetics distinguished, are Document, 12 typological areas criteria. set of building aesthetics each with its own are and Oostvierdeparten Westvierdeparten territory which is designated as located in rural the strictest where area, special building aesthetics the Building Eventually, apply. building regulations Document will be amended to Policy Aesthetics designation for Oostvierdeparten include a separate with This will correspond and Westvierdeparten. the landscape as regards Plan the Landscape Policy such as the avenue structures and characteristics of the buildings planting and the grid. In respect Guidelines the Architectural to it will be linked , which form part of Areas Heritage Cultural Valuable for a framework the zoning plan. This will provide of housing, the expansion of integration the proper of ancillary buildings and the the new construction within the characteristics of the yards organisation in heritage areas cultural and qualities of the valuable of Oostvierdeparten with the area the municipality, areas being one of the valuable and Westvierdeparten which means that it will be a proper distinguished, in respect and assessment for the control instrument of the OUV in and the protection of the preservation and Westvierdeparten. Oostvierdeparten , through which the , through 6 open character of the landscape and the allotment open character (plantingstructure for example, of poplars or conifers, protected is less explicitly cannot easily be stopped) In the heritage value. on the basis of the cultural has also been of the zoning plan, research context in the values carried out into the archaeological In the field of cultural heritage, the municipality heritage, In the field of cultural heritage cultural of valuable the overview follows . Fryslân Map Heritage elements on the Cultural heritage landscape elements and cultural Unique via a double zoning or a specific protected are values in the zoning plan. In the zoning zoning or stipulation to one of the a reference plan, this is done through a Although this does not formally constitute annexes. a similar effect. have it does in practice double zoning, heritage aspects cultural valuable where In this way, 1, Heritage located, a double zoning Cultural are preservation, the for intended partly applies: 30 article heritage values. of cultural and restoration protection planting and buildings yards, applies to This provision to the but not and also to the landscape as a whole, by The latter is covered of the landscape. structure Plan the Landscape Policy by provided the framework 2004–2014 Fryslân South East On 24 April 2015, the zoning plan Outlying Area the zoning plan Outlying Area 2015, On 24 April plan that the expected is It force. into entered adopted at the time of been irrevocably will have the entire covers nomination. The planning area of the municipality of Weststellingwerf, outlying area in of campsite De Driesprong with the exception preservative predominantly a of is plan The Langelille. Principle based on a number of Basic and is nature the council. The main theme Documents adopted by the for the spatial policy is that the landscape is and use of the space. layout guideline for the future of is as property One of the designations of the area developments Future the Society of Benevolence. place in mutual cohesion and be focused should take The spatial on the potential of the landscape. is a matter of quality assessment of developments further detailed in specific and will be customisation, horse feeders (incorporation assessment frameworks and shelters). Colonies of Benevolence

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7.3.5 WATER AUTHORITY: WATER BOARD DRENTS OVERIJSSELSE DELTA

The Oorden and Parten are located in the area managed by the water board Drents Overijsselse Delta (DODelta). The Water Management Plan sets out the comprehensive policy of the water board and the resulting activities and measures. The management plan ensures that the management of the water system also includes the secondary functions of the water such as recreational use and cultural heritage. The objective for the secondary function cultural heritage is: “the protection and reinforcement of the cultural heritage values and the archaeological and architectonic values that are directly related to surface waters and dykes”.

The water board carries out projects in (parts of ) the Oorden and Parten. The project area Beekherstel Middenloop Vledder Aa covers a small part of the property, near Doldersum. To deal with the dehydration in the area, the project aims for a change in the water management of the stream valley of the Vledder Aa rivulet from agronomical dewatering to dewatering focused on the nature function (planning phase 1: end 2013 and 2014). The interventions have no consequences for the preservation of the OUV. The Society of Benevolence is currently in consultation with the water board on the subject of restoration of the Westerbeeksloot barge canal.

The hydrological structure of the Colony area in respect of the ditch structures and dewatering is laid down in the regulations (Keur en Legger) of the water board. 7 Section Oorden and Parten 155

Coordination mechanism Coordination and Parten Oorden 7.4.1.2 Where necessary and appropriate, the municipalities necessary and appropriate, Where consultations on the will conduct administrative and the implementation of the OUV preservation This will provide of the management measures. mechanism for the coordination an administrative in this file to operate municipalities involved three and harmonised manner, coordinated in a well timely alignment and collaboration and to ensure necessary and where provinces with the respective of Fryslân has delegated The province appropriate. of the UNESCO file to in respect the responsibility The province the municipality of Weststellingwerf. a similar decision in respect might take of Overijssel III Willemsoord. for Colony of Steenwijkerland has its own as site holder, of Drenthe, The province respect and position in the UNESCO file and in role the active support of the councils through initiatives initiatives of the councils through support the active decision-making of the Joint such as excursions. councils in a meeting is legally not possible.

COLONY MANAGEMENT IN COLONY MANAGEMENT OORDEN AND PARTEN responsibility Administrative Organisation 7.4.1 7.4.1.1 7.4 The municipalities of Steenwijkerland, Westerveld Westerveld The municipalities of Steenwijkerland, joint administrative carry and Weststellingwerf Each of the and Parten. for Oorden responsibility group in the steering municipalities is represented or portfolio holder at mayor Colonies of Benevolence to mutually agreed The municipalities have level. and to of the nomination, act jointly in the context also after nomination. The continue this approach place will take point is that collaboration starting and on the basis of consensus during the collectively World and that after UNESCO nomination process, will has been obtained this practice status Heritage and the to the preservation be continued with regard of the OUV and the implementation of protection Plan. set out in the Management the other measures information will coordinated appropriate, Whenever for example to councils, be provided also in the future in the form of a joint informational council meeting of is the intention to maintain It municipalities. the three Colonies of Benevolence

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of the Colonies I and II where the municipality of requires commitment and discipline on the part of Westerveld is concerned. the administrative support, such as the mutual and timely involvement and provision of information. Collectively and on the basis of consensus, the The approach will ensure that the focus on local municipalities will administratively and officially sensitivities and the municipal awareness of the ensure the proper coordination of the implementation public and political arenas is maintained. Moreover, of the Management Plan. The coordination structure it provides sufficient guarantees to achieve close or coordination mechanism Oorden and Parten coordination as well as proper exchange and consists of: preparatory work with regard to the UNESCO file, —— Administrative consultation between the local and to jointly arrive at the most uniform approach councillors primarily responsible for as regards management measures and dealing with the file. Any one of these councillors can and integrating new developments. Furthermore, call a meeting, if deemed necessary or the structure is fairly flexible and safeguards the appropriate. Within their municipality, continuity, because those involved can temporarily the councillors will ensure that adequate assist or replace each other in respect of certain information is provided to the executive elements if so desired or necessary. board and the council; —— Per municipality a colony manager will be appointed for the implementation of the 7.4.1.3 Colony management management measures in the Colony areas located in the municipality concerned, Each municipality provides for its own administrative consultations with the province, support and for the implementation of the activities interaction with partners involved required to continue to substantiate the prospective (farmers, village interests, Society of UNESCO World Heritage status after the nomination. Benevolence, Foundation Het Heideveld) In respect of the operational management, each and the input towards the site holder and municipality carries its own responsibility regarding the overarching programme office. These the management of the property and (the initiating of ) colony managers will meet as required the realisation of the management measures required for the purpose of coordinating and in the three Colonies. At implementation level the harmonising the activities. operational Colony management is tailor-made for each Colony. The municipalities are charged with the This working method has in fact in outline already organisation of the management, whereby: in Colony been applied during the nomination phase, with I this lies solely with Westerveld, in Colony II with each municipality having appointed a responsible a combination of the municipalities of Westerveld activator with a replacement. This also ensured that and Weststellingwerf, and in Colony III with a multiple disciplines per municipality were made combination of the municipalities of Steenwijkerland available (in particular space and heritage) and form and Weststellingwerf. In Colonies I and II it is the part of the coordination mechanism. It is proposed to intention to invite the Society of Benevolence and the continue this approach and form of capacity building agricultural organisations to actively participate in in the future, once the UNESCO World Heritage the Colony management and the implementation of status has been obtained, although it should be noted the Management Plan after the World Heritage status that the commitment after the nomination will has been obtained. This is not applicable to Colony change in terms of character, intensity and extent. III, because the Society of Benevolence does not own The consensus-based coordination mechanism property there. 7 Section Oorden and Parten 157 POSITION AND ROLE POSITION AND ROLE OF DRENTHE, PROVINCES AND OVERIJSSEL FRYSLÂN 7.4.2 The province of Drenthe has a dual position on of Drenthe The province site holder. as preliminary account of its role the province as site holder, In addition to its role the is at the same time an important partner of and in the preservation municipality of Westerveld of the OUV in that municipality, the protection but also holds an autonomous position on behalf policy to various relating interest of the provincial municipality and province In that context, fields. with issues such as the contacts, maintain intensive being expressly opportunities of the area development each fulfil and the province The municipality raised. and position in the UNESCO an autonomous role For the remain so after nomination. and this will file, status Heritage obtaining UNESCO World province, is a focal point in its policy and for the administration. has indicated that after the acquisition The province it intends to act as (co-)siteof this status holder and the in the preservation a leading role and play of the OUV and the implementation of the protection Plan. Management of Fryslân the province During the nomination phase, decision-making has delegated the administrative the participation in the steering regarding process to the municipality of to the file in relation group has the province In this phase, Weststellingwerf. and has declared contributed financially to the file, its commitment to the to continue to be prepared of the OUV and the and the protection preservation Plan also after implementation of the Management has been obtained. status Heritage UNESCO World to has declared of Overijssel the province In 2015, to on how support the nomination and to reflect In this connection, concretely. articulate its role taking place with the municipalities consultations are A Ommen and Hardenberg. of Steenwijkerland, possibility is that the decision-making process for group in the steering participation regarding the UNESCO file will be delegated to one of these long-term preservation and the protection and the protection preservation long-term with the of the OUV in accordance Plan; Management of and interaction of the involvement including citizen with the stakeholders, participation; focused on the acquisition of sufficient and money) (people, knowledge resources for the implementation of the management measures; that might of the effects of developments affect the OUV and adopting appropriate pass these on and, if required, measures to the site manager at an early stage; on the basis of risks and calamities, mechanism Oorden the coordination and Parten; for the purpose of monitoring and to UNESCO the countries by reporting via the site holder; through and Parten on behalf of Oorden communication, education, knowledge information, and exchange), (research in Oorden and marketing and promotion and Parten; and to organisation programme central that by established groups the working this purpose, For organisation. programme at the three the capacity and expertise municipalities can be called upon via the principals. responsible Ensuring the control and coordination of the and coordination Ensuring the control Ensuring the harmonisation and coordination Ensuring the harmonisation and coordination Ensuring the timely detection and identification to deal with for and able Being prepared of information Ensuring adequate provision site Heritage the World propagating Collectively Ensuring an adequate contribution to the — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — The colony managers appointed perform the tasks set managers The colony mechanism on the basis of the coordination out below, municipalities: of the three Colonies of Benevolence

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municipalities. In the nomination phase, the province Parten. This is intrinsic to the privatisation that has contributed financially to the file, and has manifested itself in the free Colonies as part of the declared to be prepared to continue its commitment ongoing development from the foundation phase to the preservation and the protection of the OUV onwards. Owners and users of land and buildings, and the implementation of the Management Plan also as well as other stakeholders, have organised after the status has been obtained. themselves in the area in a variety of ways through agricultural organisations, village interests or specific consultation structures. All these parties are 7.4.3 FEEDBACK GROUP OORDEN represented in the feedback group, in addition to AND PARTEN which the municipalities also conduct a wide variety of consultations with agricultural organisations, At an early stage in the nomination process, a village interests and entrepreneurs’ associations. After feedback group was set up in Oorden and Parten, in UNESCO World Heritage status has been obtained, which municipalities and civil society organisations further (process) agreements will be made with a and stakeholders involved discuss the nomination of number of these organisations regarding their role in Oorden and Parten as part of the nomination of the the protection of the OUV, apart from their role and World Heritage site Colonies of Benevolence, and in position in the feedback group. It will be considered which it is endeavoured to reach agreement on the to lay down these agreements in a covenant. interpretation and implementation of this nomination. Over time, the composition of the feedback group has been broadened and expanded. In addition to the 7.4.4.1 Society of Benevolence Society of Benevolence, the regional Agricultural & Horticultural Organisations, the recreational sector The Society of Benevolence owns a great deal and local interests participate. After having obtained of land and buildings in Colonies I and II. The UNESCO World Heritage status, it is intended Society has no property in Colony III, because in to maintain the feedback group as a platform for the past all the property in Willemsoord was sold dialogue and reflection on the management, focused to private parties. In Colonies I and II, the Society on the preservation and the protection of the OUV in is an important implementing party for the Colony Oorden and Parten and the timely identification of management, with large parts of the land and new developments facing the area. In consultation buildings having been leased to farmers, who also with the feedback group, the municipalities will play a role in the preservation of the structure of decide on the role of the group in relation to the the landscape. In 2016, the Society has drafted its colony management after the nomination, with the own vision for the future. The Society is primarily a focus on proper and professional collaboration of the management organisation, but apart from that it also colony management with the feedback group. has a development task, which is manifested most concretely in the construction of 62 colony houses, the adaptive re-use (occupancy with new appropriate 7.4.4 RELATIONSHIP WITH THE functions) of unoccupied monumental buildings and PARTNERS IN THE AREA the development of the Colony Centre. Traditionally, the Society plays a role in propagating the story of the Apart from the Society, which owns large parts of the days of the Colonies. In the coming years, this role land and buildings in the Colony areas of Westerveld will be based increasingly on one history, five stories and Weststellingwerf, there is a great number of and the development of the acquired property of the owners and site managing parties in Oorden and Colony Centre as one of the four visitors’ centres of 7 Section Oorden and Parten 159 Other partners PROVISION INFORMATION RESIDENTS 7.4.4.4 7.4.5 The interests of residents and businesses in the of residents The interests and village interests various by represented are area land Non-agricultural associations. entrepreneurs’ and ownership) in use (tenancy and buildings are and individuals (residents of private a variety by Het III, Foundation small businesses). In Colony in property is an important party owning Heideveld entrepreneurs recreational Various area. the Colony to the nomination and the see opportunities relating and status, Heritage acquisition of UNESCO World joining forces. currently are of The aim is to continue the periodic organisation about current information sessions for residents and of developments and on the progress affairs, In site. Heritage the World opportunities around and locally active addition, information to residents the regular through businesses will be provided channels of information and communication, as specified in chapter 5 of this section. process with regard to the granting of permits for to the granting regard with process that might developments of proposed the integration in the process are Farmers affect the spatial quality. Interests the Association Agricultural of establishing Belangen Agrarische (Vereniging Parten and Oorden Oorden to VAB abbreviated en Parten, Oorden the with made agreements and have en Parten) been have authorities which governing appropriate Colonies of Heritage World in the Covenant laid down I to III. Colonies cluster Benevolence, Agriculture Steering group integrated area area integrated group Steering Westerveld development 7.4.4.3 7.4.4.2 the Colonies of Benevolence. In Colonies I and II, In Colonies the Colonies of Benevolence. of and particularly on the part of the municipality the position of the Society as outlined Westerveld, and coordination structural will require above the municipality and the consultation between management of the Society. In the context of the nomination, intensive of the nomination, intensive In the context place with agricultural taken consultations have on the fact that the current Based in the area. interests adequate safeguarding (zoning plans) provides regime that the UNESCO it has been established of the OUV, to when compared will not signify a difference status conducted, assessment carefully already the current, Agriculture is by far the most important user (tenant important user (tenant far the most is by Agriculture of land and buildings in the Colony or owner) and consequently an important party in the area, landscape in respect of the cultural preservation intends to obtain World area of which the Colony area in the Colony Agriculture status. Heritage partly through of ways, in a variety is organised partly Organisations, & Horticultural Agricultural but partly also local representation, through unorganised. In the municipality of Westerveld, an integrated integrated an In the municipality of Westerveld, area. is being set up in the Colony development area with group steering a separate this purpose, For in has been established structure organisational the province which the municipality of Westerveld, join forces and the Society of Benevolence of Drenthe Coordination development. this area of in respect group and the steering group this steering between or the site manager is Colonies of Benevolence the place through and will initially take desired, manager of the municipality of Westerveld. colony Colonies of Benevolence

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7.5 Dealing with trends and developments

7.5.1 COLLECTIVE The Colonies are aware of the fact that the RESPONSIBILITY FOR collectiveness of the seven Colonies is vital to properly ADEQUATE MANAGEMENT present this history, and the parties are willing to jointly invest in this now and in the future, in order to preserve this unique landscape, which marks a special 7.5.1.1 Common and supported aspect of the history of the Netherlands and Belgium, ambition also for generations to come. The long-term strategy for the management of the seven Colonies is focused The Colonies of Benevolence attach great importance on the preservation and the reinforcement of the to the collective and supported management of OUV. The development philosophy calls for a strategy the “cultural landscape”. From the start of the in which the consistency of the cultural heritage of nomination, great effort was put into reaching the territories is a guiding principle and serves as a consensus on the approach and the involvement of source of inspiration for the sustainable development local and regional partners as well as the people who of these territories. With this in mind, an inspirational live, work, farm and/or recreate in the landscape, document like ‘On Course for the Colony Landscape’ and this will be continued after the recognition. (Koers op Kolonielandschap) was drawn up in the The ambition is to also propagate the story about early stages of the nomination process. On the basis of the history from the origins of the Colonies, and the early identification, future developments and trends way in which they have developed, and to make this will be translated into a uniform approach, taking into known and accessible to a wide audience. account the differences between the Colonies and the instruments of both countries. 7 Section Oorden and Parten 161 influence. The four visitors’ centres The four visitors’ centres influence. role of ‘site holder’,role point of contact, in first acquisition of the after the the Netherlands status; Heritage UNESCO World adequate delegation) ensure or not through and group in the steering representation office; input in the programme provide consultation with the provinces, mechanism for the three a coordination and operational Colonies at administrative place through The latter takes level. manager appointed per the colony municipality; and for be appointed, while per Colony coordinated Colonies overall the three management will be ensured; and (Frederiksoord visitors’ centres as museums of provincial Veenhuizen) support structural and provides interest The province of Drenthe is willing to assume the of Drenthe The province (whether The municipalities and the provinces necessary in where The municipalities, will manager municipality one colony Per has designated both of Drenthe The province New measures: New Management measures Management — — — — — — — — — — and also for managing the effects that may arise from arise from and also for managing the effects that may of ​​ area a larger partly developed based on one joint concept are In the Dutch Colonies initiatives. private through place on takes consultation with feedback groups made about are and agreements basis, a structural the of commitment to the protection each party’s the implementation of management measures, OUV, and the contribution to subjects such as education information, and the management of the heritage. users owners, involve The Colonies of Benevolence and implementation in the development and scientists of the of the site management and the safeguarding The management provides quality of the heritage. of the input of the local continuity in respect expertise and the input of the specific environment of the the management and preservation regarding quality of the heritage. Powerful organisation based organisation Powerful on collectiveness realisation that the Colonies collectively the Colonies collectively that realisation of tell and visualise the whole story the parties in each Colony, the history, and group the steering by coordinated to themselves commit the site manager, of the landscape management the proper and to buildings, and the representative necessary and where maintain, protect parts of these; rehabilitate from experts and trends, to developments will meet at least the partner organisations the possibilities explore to once a year themes for Possible in this respect. of the agenda could be the installation facilities and building in energy sustainable style. historicising On the basis of the common interest and the On the basis of the common interest a uniform approach the aim of achieving With 7.5.1.2 New measures: New Management measures Management — — — — The Colonies of Benevolence exercise joint exercise The Colonies of Benevolence of the management of and control coordination and of Drenthe The province Colonies. the seven behalf of the province Landschap (on Kempens Administratively, site holder. act as of Antwerp) has been set up under which the group a steering Committee for Advisory An site holder operates. Quality can issue advice Education and Science, manager. as to the colony to the site holder as well have group in the steering The parties represented for the site resources mobilised financial and human the proper management. The site holder ensures site as a whole. Heritage management of the World The site holder initiates the activities that serve the quality of the World to maintain and improve the communication, and also facilitates site, Heritage The monitoring and periodic reporting. coordination, for the preservation responsible managers are colony the buffer zone, and management of the property, Colonies of Benevolence

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in this respect. In addition, it will give an contribute to the preservation of the nature values additional boost to the development of related to the OUV. the Colony Centre Frederiksoord. The municipalities will facilitate the partners in These legislative changes will lead to changes in the area concerned with the organisation the future instruments to be deployed, which in and the management of the visitors’ centre. principle will be of a more integrated and cumulated character. In this way, the protection of heritage (built monuments, archaeology, areas), nature and landscape 7.5.1.3 Government management and its incorporation in provincial and municipal and protection environmental visions, environmental plans and environmental permits in the Netherlands is and will The OUV of the Colonies of Benevolence is be safeguarded, as well as the harmonisation with the safeguarded in the Netherlands through national water management plans of the water boards. policies, with laws and regulations laid down in two systems: In case of unexpected large-scale developments that —— The system of spatial planning for planological might affect the OUV of the site, a Heritage Impact protection; Assessment will be carried out. The outcomes of —— The system of the (immovable) heritage policy. the HIA will be taken into account in decision- making processes regarding the location and the Besides, the nature values are additionally protected implementation of the development. through European legislation such as Natura 2000. Management measures In the Netherlands, legislation for spatial planning and New measures: heritage is currently being simplified and made more —— The State considers offering the Colonies of integral. The new Heritage Act (formerly Monuments Benevolence protection on the basis and Historic Buildings Act and other legislation) of the instructional provision “world entered into force on 1 July 2016. As far as the heritage” in the Environment & Planning immovable heritage is concerned this Act focuses on Act. In consultation with the provinces, the preservation, the protection and the restoration of municipalities and stakeholders involved, the built or landscaped objects (national monuments) the State will establish further details of and archaeological monuments. Until 2019, the spatial the instructional provision. The objective protection of the heritage values in the Netherlands of this exercise is to ensure consistency in will be regulated by the Spatial Planning Act (Wro). respect of the impact of policies in all the The new Environment & Planning Act, which will provinces and municipalities; in future regulate the spatial protection of heritage —— The colony managers and the site manager are values, will enter into force in 2019. In addition to charged with the timely identification of the Heritage Act and the Environment & Planning developments with a potential impact on Act, legislation on the subject of nature areas will the OUV. Through their environmental also change as per 1 January 2017. From that date, the visions, the provinces provide for new Nature Conservation Act will replace the current involvement in such developments at an Nature Conservation Act, the Flora and Fauna Act and early stage; the Forestry Act, and will eventually be incorporated —— The colony managers ensure proper input from in the Environment & Planning Act. This Act will also experts at the annual working meeting of experts focused on the timely identification 7 Section Oorden and Parten 163 in the Environmental Vision, Culture Culture Vision, in the Environmental Heritage Cultural and the Memorandum Compass; of the OUV solid basis for the protection the visions and plans, existing the through such as the instruments and regulation spatial quality team; of the OUV a basis for the protection principle that spatial the through not in line with which are developments should entail the Vision the Environmental of the spatial quality on the reinforcement Features; basis of the Catalogue of Area and consequently area, of the Colony on the basis of the OUV, the protection of a number of zoning plans (including means mainly by management regulation), heritage, of a double zoning cultural zoning of structural the explicit and by and the crossroads elements such as roads, positioning of the buildings in the building blocks; ensures municipality of Steenwijkerland of the spatial development the protection is also a there and landscape structure; of the felling licensing obligation in respect on the basis of which a replanting of trees, obligation can be imposed, for example intact or to structures the avenue to keep trees; valuable replant of Residence new zoning plan for the area been reacquired which has Frederiksoord, that this plan and ensures the Society, by will be in effect at the time of nomination. is regulated the protection that time, Until protected decree on the basis of the State villagescape. The province of Fryslân provides an intrinsically of Fryslân provides The province provides policy of Overijssel The provincial spatial protection The municipalities provide On the basis of a licensing obligation, the a will draft The municipality of Westerveld — — — — — — — — — — of developments and trends, and the and trends, of developments for the of uniform measures establishment the OUV in the light of such of protection and trends; developments and Quality will be consulted on with a potential and trends developments necessary and where impact on the OUV, will be initiated (HIA); further investigation plans and the fact that their visions, heritage maps and (cultural instruments policy) in building aesthetics compass, case of updating or making new plans should be harmonised with the OUV after has status Heritage the UNESCO World that to ensure been obtained, in order of the OUV is adequately the protection embedded; nomination in its Heritage the World so as to Vision, impending Environmental that it is permanently safeguarded ensure policy; in provincial in consultation are of Steenwijkerland heritage the cultural in which on the way be can in future of Willemsoord values Environmental included in the provincial policy of the and the cultural Vision province; the importance of the Colonies stipulate its Environmental in of Benevolence heritage values and the cultural Vision, in the will be detailed and safeguarded Plan. Environmental preservation and reinforcement of and reinforcement preservation and the the position of Frederiksoord of provincial as being area surrounding qualities of and part of the core interest this has anchored The province Drenthe. The Advisory Committee for Science, Education Committee for Science, The Advisory and municipalities recognise The provinces of Fryslân will incorporate The province and the municipality of Overijssel The province will The municipality of Steenwijkerland The province of Drenthe is investing in the is investing of Drenthe The province Continuation of existing policy: Continuation — — — — — — — — — — — — Colonies of Benevolence

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7.5.1.4 Protection nature values from the Colony days more visible and perceptible in the three Colonies, and with this in mind restoration In the Dutch Colonies, parts of the property and of buildings has taken place. In respect of certain the buffer zone are covered by the Dutch National elements, provision is made for further investigation Ecological Network, which provides protection of into the state of maintenance and the need for the nature values of these areas. In the vicinity of the restoration, rehabilitation and adaptive re-use. three Colonies the protected nature reserve Drents- Friese Wold & Leggelderveld is located, which is also Recognition of management and maintenance of part of the Dutch National Ecological Network. The landscape and heritage immediate environment of the Colony area is part of a network of nature areas. The individual territories have received international recognition for the way in which they have managed Management measures and maintained the landscape and the heritage up till Continuation of existing policy: now. Because Westerveld uses cultural heritage as the —— The provinces focus their environmental policy driving force of its identity and as the linking factor on the protection of the landscape typology between its cores, this municipality was awarded the and structure. Drenthe focuses specifically 2011 BNG Heritage Award of the Bank Nederlandse on the preservation and reinforcement of Gemeenten (Dutch Municipal Bank). Residents are the avenue planting along the main access actively involved and are enthusiastic participants route, the cultivation structure and the in processes and projects. In 2015, the Society of alternation between mass and space, and Benevolence was nominated for the Europa Nostra the characteristic ribbon developments and Award, and received a special mention of the jury. the intervals.

7.5.2 STATE OF CONSERVATION 7.5.1.5 Rehabilitation of landscape, nature and buildings In Oorden and Parten, the basic typology as free Colony is still recognisably present everywhere in From the beginning of the 21st century, both the landscape and the buildings. The functional Belgium and the Netherlands have made large-scale use of land (agriculture and forestry) and buildings investments in the preservation and rehabilitation (education, care and training, office Society of of the structure of the landscape and the buildings Benevolence) is also partially in line with the original in the Colonies, based on a long-term vision. In philosophy of the Society of Benevolence. The Society doing so, specific focus is placed on sustainable of Benevolence still owns large parts of the land and exploitation and local businesses appropriate to buildings in the area, particularly in the protected the cultural heritage essence of the territories. In villagescape of Frederiksoord-Wilhelminaoord, the Dutch Colonies the emphasis is on the adaptive in Boschoord, and in Oostvierdeparten and re-use of unoccupied premises before proceeding Westvierdeparten. It is intrinsic to the ongoing to restoration. The adaptive re-use should be in line development of the free Colonies that ownership of with the landscape structures and the history of parts of the original cultivation and the buildings was the Colonies (agriculture/agricultural innovation, passed to private parties. In 1923, Willemsoord was care, housing, education, detention, recreation). The sold and ended up in the hands of a large number Society of Benevolence is one of the parties aiming of private parties, but elsewhere in the Colony area, to make the landscape and the building structures too, the Society sold land and leased the use of land 7 Section Oorden and Parten 165 Attribute concerns element that does not Attribute 4 the selected period, but with originate from positioning has to which the historical regard particularly placement in and been respected, grid. for the respect In all three Colonies, the structure of the landscape of the the structure Colonies, In all three to the avenue is placed in category 1 with regard (primarystructures secondary) and part of and (not all of the original water structures the water filled because part was present, still are structures still and the grid are system in). The measurement and possess in the landscape, present recognisably of authenticity and integrity degree the highest part of the original in Colonies I and II. However, from excluded was Wilhelminaoord) (core cultivation disappeared has here grid the because nomination, the to the Due of this core. the development of as a result of the grid in the structure effects of the privatisation, but looks less well recognisable is still Willemsoord in of the unique crossroads The structure preserved. planologically and is has been preserved Willemsoord protected. The management and maintenance of the landscape is the land. The and users of in the hands of the owners the management and regulated municipalities have in their management maintenance of their property As and maintenance plans for the public space. the Society of Benevolence managing organisation, aims to manage and maintain the landscape in line This of the Society. heritage values with the cultural also applies to the functional use of the buildings and on the basis of which the land. In the agreements in management and given the land and buildings are parties such as farmers, the Society to private use by of management imposed in respect are requirements the Society itself In addition, and maintenance. work. also carries out maintenance and restoration obliged to carry other parties are The various out management and maintenance within the This authorities. the governing set by parameters and the includes activities such as the felling of trees Attribute possesses authenticity and possesses authenticity Attribute what it was illustrates Attribute in relation is damaged element Attribute 1 a good and perceptible and gives integrity, in the the attribute looked of how impression in the period concerned; context historical 2 has not context but the historical historically, preserved; been well 3 at the time of landscaping/ like to what it looked construction; An assessment was carried out on the basis of the An assessment was classification: following When designating the attributes in the context of the When designating the attributes in the context carried out on the nomination, an assessment was authenticity and integrity of recognisability, degree This and iconic buildings. structure of the typology, of conservation. assessment also included the state The attributes designated in Oorden and Parten and Parten The attributes designated in Oorden of the landscape and the the structure as regards in good condition. generally iconic buildings are of care taken is in principle well Their protection of the on the basis of the spatial and heritage policy obligation with a licensing authorities, governing assessment for including a building aesthetics in the and new construction demolition, renovation villagescape and for monuments. protected and buildings to private parties. Parts of the Colony of the Colony Parts parties. and buildings to private water of municipalities, the property became areas of particularly infrastructure and provinces, boards structures plantings), water avenue (including roads the maintenance and As a result, and public spaces. of and characteristics management of the structure the landscape and the iconic buildings representative as as well reduction, of poverty for the experiment is in the hands of a large their ongoing development, of Benevolence, such as the Society number of parties, site managers such authorities, governing farmers, and (residents owners private Heideveld, as Het businesses). Colonies of Benevolence

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introduction of changes to landscape structures in the —— The municipalities, and in some cases the prov­ outlying area and the ribbons, and to the buildings. inces, have on the basis of their monuments regulation/heritage regulation designated Most of the iconic buildings are protected as attributes as protected monument; (national) monument, and in Frederiksoord- —— When processing applications for permits for Wilhelminaoord they are also part of the protected (national) monuments and in the protected villagescape. For the bulk of the iconic buildings, villagescape, the municipalities apply assessment based on the four categories set out building aesthetics policy and request the above will result in 1 and 2, while some buildings are advice of the Monuments Committee; classified as category 3. Category 4 is not assigned to —— In their plans for the management and the iconic attributes, but does apply for example to maintenance of public space and the location in the grid of the new construction of 62 greenery, the municipalities have issued colony houses. The owners of the iconic buildings municipal directives for the preservation, with monument status have a maintenance obligation maintenance and protection of area- and they are expected to maintain their buildings in specific characteristics, iconic greenery, accordance with the monument status. regional building styles and yard planting in order to protect, restore or reinforce Management measures historic road and water structures. These New measures: frameworks provide a solid basis for the —— The State, through a bottom-up approach protection of the OUV. in consultation with the provinces and municipalities and local stakeholders, considers working out in further detail 7.5.3 FACTORS AFFECTING the text to be included for the Colonies OORDEN AND PARTEN of Benevolence on the basis of the Environment & Planning Act in the Decree on Environmental Quality. This text is an 7.5.3.1 Developments and trends elaboration of the instructional provision affecting Oorden and Parten “world heritage” which is issued on the basis of the Environment & Planning Act. In the context of the Management Plan, all The State attaches great importance to developments and trends are identified which now or further customisation of the specification in the future may affect the OUV and the attributes as living landscape, together with the of Oorden and Parten. Per development or trend parties in the area; deemed relevant, a brief description is provided and —— The municipality of Steenwijkerland considers the management task and measures to be taken are carrying out research into the monumental also dealt with. It is a living landscape which has seen values of the general cemetery Vredehof, many developments since the days of the Society, and which at present does not enjoy in which the landscape structures and characteristics monumental protection. from those days are still recognisably present. Continuation of existing policy: This also applies to a large number of remaining —— The State has designated Frederiksoord- buildings, although at the same time over the years Wilhelminaoord as protected villagescape; many buildings were lost, changed their function or —— The State has designated a number of buildings differ from the original due to renovation, extension as national monument; and new construction. The ongoing development, 7 Section Oorden and Parten 167 and building aesthetics reduce the chance the chance reduce and building aesthetics to that could lead of business developments impact on the OUV which is to a negative be protected; sector; drilling; for gas extraction/(exploratory) farms (buffer zone Oostvierdeparten). Rules and requirements imposed by zoning plans zoning by imposed requirements and Rules Continuation of existing policy: Continuation Other developments which are possible on which are Other developments of companies in the biomass The establishment installations flare The placement of (temporary) near greenhouses The placement of arched Management measures Management — — — — — — — — Colony landscape. Any effects will be very limited effects will be very Any landscape. Colony imposing further by and could easily be incorporated spatial integration in the field of layout, requirements In all cases it concerns business and accessibility. to impact (up environmental activities with a lower category 3). environmental and particularly in the outlying area, locations various are: in the buffer zones, The expansion or new establishment of a business or of a business or new establishment The expansion in is regulated business activity in the outlying area plans, spatial provincial in the various ways different apply to the requirements provinces but in all three cultural including landscape and/or spatial quality, also included and rules are frameworks Such heritage. which in some cases rule out new in the zoning plans, small business activities or limit these to existing Prinses Marianne). sites (adjacent to Hoeve industrial of a certain degree where is a living landscape, It the to preserve is required ongoing development from The rules following quality of life in the area. limit the severely zoning plans and building aesthetics leading to a negative of business developments threat to an Linked impact on the OUV to be protected. permit or spatial planning procedure, environmental on the development can be imposed requirements taking into account the landscape and its integration, applicable and where and characteristics, structures of the buildings. the monumental status business activities An important development is the adaptive re-use of re-use is the adaptive An important development detached farm buildings and unoccupied premises in the Colony but also elsewhere in Wilhelminaoord, to the in Boschoord This applies for example area. de Werkhorst. and Hoeve Immer Moed farms Hoeve vacant are there locations in the area On various of the framework Within farm buildings. industrial new forms of business activity re-use, the adaptive in these buildings with an expected can be developed the nature given However, area. impact on the Colony impact a negative and the scale of these activities, The same applies on the OUV is not to be expected. activities of existing to the ongoing development provides The spatial protection area. in the Colony in the integration for the proper requirements which was set in motion in the days of the Society, of the Society, in motion in the days set which was landscape and will of the present is characteristic necessary to preserve remain years also in future in the quality of life and the economic resources the these supporting factors Without the area. and thus of the of the landscape, preservation present recognisably and characteristics structures will of the Society, in the landscape since the days developments Therefore, be difficult to achieve. and in the now possible, remain should in the area In general integration. on the basis of proper future, the and particularly authorities, the governing and impose clear requirements already municipalities, based of such developments, in respect frameworks policies (zoning plans and heritage on prevailing in principle frameworks policy). These prevailing for timely sufficient opportunities to allow provide and consequently preserve of developments, control time the same At the OUV and attributes. and protect it is a point of attention for the internal organisation authorities concerned (State, of all the governing to identify board) municipalities and water province, (protection OUV be relevant that may developments World opportunity) for the UNESCO or development internal and ensure at an early stage, status Heritage notification to the necessary, and, where coordination the site manager. manager and if relevant colony Colonies of Benevolence

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—— Linked to an environmental permit or spatial province of Drenthe and the municipality of planning procedure, requirements can Westerveld, and in the context of Belvedere be imposed on the development and the the opportunities have been studied to integration of new or expansion of existing develop new buildings which are adequately business activities. integrated in the protected villagescape and the grid. The plan provides a new housing revenue model for the quality of life and Particularly in the municipality of Westerveld the protection of the heritage value-based a number of small-scale housing developments development in the area. The leasehold have presented themselves which require careful on the land is placed in a common fund integration in relation to the OUV. This concerns: (for a 10-year period) for investments in —— The Colony Houses of the Future: This unprofitable cultural heritage projects in reconstruction project in Frederiksoord- the area in respect of the municipality of Wilhelminaoord (Westerveld) reflects Westerveld, the province of Drenthe and the the aim of the Society of Benevolence to Society of Benevolence; preserve the unique and historic Colony —— There are plans to redevelop the location of area for the future by developing it. the horticultural school, in line with the The objective is to restore as much as OUV. In this connection, it is considered to possible the recognisability in landscape realise a public museum function for this and buildings. In principle the houses area, focusing on the historical relationship are realised on locations where over the with the past agricultural and horticultural centuries the original houses were lost. training facilities; These new Colony houses are integrated —— In the ribbon at Oostvierdeparten and within the authentic appearance of the Westvierdeparten there is some scope characteristic ribbon development in the for the expansion of existing houses, Colonies of Benevolence. The design, if properly integrated in the landscape use of materials and energy consumption and in compliance with the strictest are modern and in terms of comfort, building aesthetics standards. In principle, sustainability and energy management the demolition (and new construction) is not Colony House of the Future is well ahead allowed, except in the event of calamities of current requirements. Consequently, this such as fire and collapse; building project is part of the government —— In principle, new housing is ruled out in the programme “Excellent Areas”. With its zero outlying area of all three municipalities; emission houses, the plan is also one of the —— When plans are submitted for renovation or 19 projects for sustainable area development demolition, a licensing obligation applies in the Netherlands, and of all the State- to the buildings protected as monuments, designated areas it has meanwhile taken the including consultation of the Monuments lead as regards realisation of the targets. Committee and assessment against A total of 62 houses will be built within the building aesthetics requirements; protected grid of Westerveld. Intensive —P— oints for attention regarding all plans for consultations have taken place on the renovation or new construction are: development of this plan with the Cultural Proper positioning on the grid; Heritage Agency of the Netherlands, the Prevention of historicising new Foundation Society of Benevolence, the construction or renovation. 7 Section Oorden and Parten 169 In all three municipalities, expansion of existing of existing expansion municipalities, In all three area facilities in or near the Colony recreational Requirements plans. zoning through is regulated apply in the landscape the integration as regards of campsites and recreational to the expansion accommodation parks. with In the buffer zone and partly on the border in the Colony Bosrand’ of campsite ‘de the property and Veentje’ campsite ‘Het of Willemsoord, area located. In are Eeser Heideveld’ park ’t recreational amount of zoning plan, a maximum the prevailing If this maximum amount mobile homes is specified. additional mobile homes reached, been has not yet within the zoning plan. This is an allowed are under the terms of the zoning plan, right acquired as a given. to be regarded and consequently will have of the campsites in the landscape is The integration the sites. zoning around a green through regulated campsite ‘de the sites near Willemsoord, from Apart (buffer zone) and Moesberg’ is located in Westerveld also small-scale campsites in the area, (farm) are there and Westvierdeparten including in Oostvierdeparten all (all located within the buffer zone). These are landscape on the basis of in the integrated properly zoning plans. the prevailing of new B&Bs and development The expansion the also in and hotel accommodations is possible, if buildings, of existing re-use of the adaptive context by the specified within the frameworks appropriate provides This zoning plan and building aesthetics. in case of such for control a sufficient basis to allow the preservation to safeguard in order developments of the OUV. and the protection the affect will not negatively The new visitors’ centre accommodation because existing landscape, Colony is possible that the visitors’ It is used for this purpose. of visitors in the flow will cause some increase centre an will not be such that This increase to the area. new The impact on the OUV is to be expected. of ‘de re-use will put the adaptive visitors’ centre Koloniehof’ on the agenda. the State and the province of Drenthe, of Drenthe, the province and the State has the municipality of Westerveld in its zoning plan the possibility created Frederiksoord- villagescape protected new Colony to build 62 Wilhelminaoord houses in the grid. The construction in of the Future Houses Colony of 62 enhances the quality of Westerveld and functions as a new life of the area and model for Frederiksoord revenue to participate in the Wilhelminaoord in investments funding of unprofitable heritage the cultural to reinforce order consultations Extensive area. in the values place between taken about this plan have the office Belvedere, the programme the municipality and the Society province, of Benevolence; to the OUV in a manner appropriate and rules through is safeguarded zoning plans imposed by requirements guidelines (including architectural plans) development and agricultural in respect and building aesthetics for plans permits of environmental and new for demolition, renovation construction. Following consultation with the Society, with the Society, consultation Following of housing developments The incorporation recreation and tourism recreation Continuation of existing policy: Continuation Management measures Management — — — — Tourism and recreation are pillars for the local are and recreation Tourism although the municipalities, in all three economy on pressure of recreational and intensity extent of recreational is limited. The presence the area to the is not per se related accommodation in the area in also other attractions are There landscape. colony forest and various Parks such as National the area, a certain need for expansion Consequently, areas. campsites and other recreational of existing B&Bs and hotels cannot accommodation facilities like be ruled out. Colonies of Benevolence

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Recreational accessibility will require the changing agricultural use enhancement and expansion of the horseriding, Oorden and Parten has historically been developed walking and cycling routes in the Colony area. as a free agricultural Colony, where soon after the Incorporation and construction of these structures start the first adjustments occurred in the form of the will be in line with the existing infrastructure, and increase in size of the housing plots from the initial new infrastructure will be created in a manner 2,4 hectares to 2,8 hectares, and in a later phase the appropriate to the landscape characteristics in the construction of farms with up to 50 hectares of land. area. The new physical route structures which will It can therefore be concluded that up-scaling and be developed in order to connect the Dutch Colonies modernisation were significantly manifest during and by road and through cycling routes and footpaths, since the foundation period, and has continued until will make use of existing structures. Consequently, today. The original grid and the parcellation dating no impact on the OUV is expected as a result of from the days of the Colonies are still recognisable the construction and expansion of the recreational and visibly present in the landscape. Until today, infrastructure. they function as a basis for agricultural practice. Therefore, agriculture has been a determining factor Management measures for the ongoing development of the landscape, and Continuation of existing policy: an important contributing element and party for the —— In the Colony area of Wllemsoord, the expansion preservation of the structures and characteristics that of recreational accommodation sites have remained present in the landscape since the days is regulated on the basis of a separate of the Colonies. zoning plan, and is limited to a maximum. This plan also provides for the proper Traditionally, multiple agricultural businesses integration of the campsites in the have been established in the Colony area. This landscape, through the requirement of the applies to the property as well as to the buffer zone. construction of a green belt around the Developments which prevail in the Netherlands such sites; as up-scaling, modernisation (new stable systems and —— In respect of the other - mainly small- stable lighting) and expansion (ancillary functions in scale – campsites, B&Bs and hotel combination with agricultural activities like campsite, accommodations, the rules and teahouse or care), manifest themselves in the area. On requirements imposed on the basis of a limited scale, crops are also changing. A number of the zoning plans (including architectural intensive stock-farming businesses are located in the guidelines and agricultural development area. There is a limited extent of land exchange among plans) and building aesthetics in respect farmers, for example under the PAS (Programme of plans for demolition, renovation and Approach Nitrogen Management) programme. new construction (environmental permit) In zoning plans, the municipalities provide the provide sufficient possibilities to exercise required scope for up-scaling, modernisation and control in respect of the preservation and expansion of agricultural activities, while at the the protection of the OUV; same time imposing certain requirements in that —— Recreational route structures are and will be respect. The prevailing zoning plans provide for such integrated in the landscape in such a way developments to be implemented in line with the that they will not have an impact on the landscape and with some plans (zoning plan outlying OUV. area Weststellingwerf and zoning plan protected villagescape Frederiksoord-Wilhelminaoord), and also with the cultural heritage values of the area. A 7 Section Oorden and Parten 171 Belangen Oorden en Parten); en Parten); Belangen Oorden authorities and the governing and Parten agreements made further concerned have to deal with the development about how opportunities for farmers in the area. in been laid down have These agreements Colonies of Heritage World the Covenant I to III. Colonies cluster Benevolence, municipalities and the provinces, municipalities and the provinces, imposed on and rules are requirements such as up-developments agricultural and expansion, modernisation scaling, and the change of function of existing This means business premises. agricultural and regulated are that these developments to in advance equipped with instruments appropriate if development, for scope allow of the area. to the landscape characteristics to the opportunities This also provides and of the preservation control exercise of the OUV; protection with integration the need for proper spatial and landscape aspects in respect m² of of 2.500 of the possible realisation for in as provided horticulture, greenhouse Boschoord. the zoning plan Hoeve The Association Agricultural Interests Oorden Oorden Interests The Association Agricultural Based on the prevailing policy of the prevailing on the Based recognises The municipality of Westerveld infrastructure and traffic Continuation of existing polics: Continuation — — — — — — The Colony area is crossed by a motorway and a motorway by is crossed area The Colony In as a given. both to be regarded line, a railway (provincial is a number of existing addition, there With in the area. structures and municipal) road these of the cores, of the expansion the exception in line with the structure remained have structures the Society period as the basis for the dating from ribbons and the buildings. of The main focus of attention is the reorganisation also an attribute on the basis that are roads existing the Association Agricultural Interests Interests the Association Agricultural Agrarische (Vereniging and Parten Oorden The farmers are in the process of establishing of establishing in the process The farmers are New policy: New Management measures Management — — It is expected that, as is the case elsewhere in the that, as is the case elsewhere is expected It in the Colony the number of farmers Netherlands, by purchased with the land being will decline, area other farmers as part of the up-scaling, but with of rate This vacancy farm buildings becoming vacant. and the need for changes of farm buildings existing buildings, these of re-use adaptive partial and function led to and have as a development recognised are its approach. regarding specific municipal policy to the OUV it is important that in all In relation and changes of re-use the municipalities adaptive subject to rules on the basis of prevailing function are are There zoning plans and building aesthetics. for small-scale opportunities in the area development of and the construction horticulture greenhouse as This is regarded farms. near greenhouses arched zoning right on the basis of the prevailing an acquired on asbestos the ban sector, the agricultural For plans. materials. as per 2020 can affect other roofing roofs so are Another possibility is that the clean-up costs Replacing high that it is decided to build new stables. covering solar panels as roof in such cases by the roofs is also an option. number of farmers lease land or buildings from the number of farmers lease land or buildings from in the which also imposes requirements Society, of the use of such land and in respect agreements developments agricultural Consequently, buildings. landscape on in the can be adequately integrated which provides policy, the basis of the prevailing in order control exercise sufficient opportunities to in line with the OUV. these developments to integrate particularly impose requirements, too, The provinces, up-scaling. of agricultural the integration as regards of building of unplanned expansion In the event while demands a quality boost, Overijssel blocks, on the basis of its Fryslân pursues a similar approach Pleats’. ‘Nije project Colonies of Benevolence

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of the structure of the landscape. This concerns the materials and road lineation. In Weststellingwerf and primary and secondary roads with avenue structures Steenwijkerland such requirements are less explicit. and the hydrological structure. Changes in the infrastructure like the reorganisation of roads are Management measures necessary on account of the demands of road safety Continuation of existing policy: and the use of the infrastructure. This also applies —— At present, the organisation of roads is to the partial (semi-rigid) paving of existing dirt determined by the type of traffic and the roads. In most zoning plans, the road infrastructure position of the road in the hierarchy of the is regulated on the basis of a traffic zoning, which traffic system. This hierarchy is laid down is not very strongly linked with the cultural in profiles, use of trees and other greenery, heritage values of the area and is therefore easier choice of materials and colour, in order to fit in. This also applies to the preservation of the to allow for comfort, clarity and smooth structural characteristics of roads. Economies were movement. Provinces and municipalities implemented in the restructuring of the Koningin ensure that after having obtained the Wilhelminalaan in Wilhelminaoord (reorganisation UNESCO World Heritage status, the OUV anticipated mid 2016), but tension between the and the quality of the appearance of the requirements set by the CROW (Knowledge Centre Colony landscape (for example avenue for Traffic, Transport and Infrastructure) directives planting) are taken into account when and the cultural heritage aspect necessitated reorganising roads; compromises. The roundabout at Frederiksoord, —— The structure of the landscape is laid down in which was constructed in the past, does not fit in zoning plans as regards the location of the with the structure but is regarded as a fait accompli. infrastructure, but can be enhanced by Reorganisation is also an issue in respect of the giving more careful consideration to its character of other municipal roads (on the basis of organisation; municipal traffic and transport plans) and part of the —— Structural characteristics like avenue structures Steenwijkerweg which is a provincial road. There, too, and plantings are safeguarded through the the CROW directives necessitate adjustments to the landscape policy and the timber regulation. road. Avenue and planting structures usually enjoy additional protection on the basis of a landscape plan and the timber regulation. heritage and archaeology In the Colony area, Frederiksoord-Wilhelminaoord A particular point for attention is the construction is designated as protected villagescape, and in of new utilities, such as mobile telephone masts and addition a number of buildings enjoy monument facilities for fibre and broadband. In principle such status. These areas are subject to specific building constructions should be properly integrated in the aesthetics requirements in respect of plans for landscape. The municipalities apply a strict policy in demolition, renovation or new construction. Specific respect of masts, through which the containment of building aesthetics criteria also apply to other the proliferation of masts and the sharing of masts by parts of the Colony area (including the ribbons in providers is controlled. Oostvierdeparten and Westvierdeparten).

The building aesthetics policy of Westerveld provides The municipality of Steenwijkerland and the explicit frameworks for the use of materials in public province of Overijssel are discussing how to include space, the layout and management of roadsides the cultural heritage values of Willemsoord in the and river banks, lighting and signage style, use of future in the provincial environmental vision and 7 Section Oorden and Parten 173 building aesthetics policy applies, with the policy applies, building aesthetics that the use of materials and colour proviso and the colour scheme of the Society of apply to farm buildings, Benevolence buildings and barns; industrial adjacent to these outside the protected criteria building aesthetics villagescape, based on the zoning plans (on the basis of heritage) apply a double zoning cultural this In of the heritage. for the protection Oversticht advice of Het the respect, in the and Hûs en Hiem is requested monument field of building aesthetics, management and spatial quality. For buildings with a monument status and buildings with a monument status For nature and landscape nature — — The various municipalities and municipal zoning municipalities and municipal The various landscape types as a basis for plans specify different in of developments the assessment of the integration within which such the landscape and the frameworks This typology is not made possible. are developments and particularly area, Colony uniform in the entire it does not match the structural in Willemsoord plot landscape as regards the Colony of characteristics and dimensioning. structure municipalities are the In the outlying areas, and reinforcement committed to the preservation landscapes and landscape structures. of the existing against protection In principle this ensures impact on with a potential negative developments in small-scale infringements, Nonetheless the OUV. in the to the openness and vistas particular relating scope to provide in order will be allowed landscape, for developments. offers Park National Friese Wold The Drents interventions because radical additional protection of the National The development there. unlikely are Fryslân and Overijssel between Ecological Network This concerns landscape. does not affect the Colony to be connected. areas wetland two the municipality of Westerveld provides provides the municipality of Westerveld of the for the areas specific protection in the protected Society of Benevolence the regular villagescape; outside this area province of Overijssel are discussing how discussing how are of Overijssel province of heritage values to include the cultural in the provincial in the future Willemsoord vision and the cultural environmental policy of the province; the school and the of the synagogue, to in order bathhouse in Willemsoord Basic part of the story. the Jewish reinforce location in situ this principle is to preserve research. and not conduct archaeological On the basis of its building aesthetics policy, policy, On the basis of its building aesthetics The municipality of Steenwijkerland and the The municipality of Steenwijkerland location the exact into Carrying out research Continuation of existing policy: Continuation New measures: New Management measures Management — — — — — — It is possible that on a number of locations in the It the period from values archaeological area Colony might in the soil. It present of the Colonies are there, be advisable to carry out further research the school particularly the location of the synagogue, in order in Willemsoord, and the bathhouse at De Pol part of the story. the Jewish to reinforce It should be noted that the allotment structure and should be noted that the allotment structure It as cadastral the plot boundaries cannot be protected but such boundary on the basis of the zoning plans, and ditches, apply to planted borders does protection zoning plans mainly through safeguarded which are in the This results as part of landscape characteristics. of the plot boundaries. safeguarding indirect the cultural policy of the province. This means that policy of the province. the cultural of the monuments and restoration re-use adaptive attention. This more will be given in Willemsoord individuals who may is also important for private The inclusion of Watch. wish to bring in Monument policies also affects the in provincial Willemsoord Watch. prioritisation of Monument Colonies of Benevolence

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Management measures are not relevant for the OUV. On the basis of the plans New measures: of the water board, the hydrological management in —— A focal point for the municipality of the area carries no risks for the OUV. Steenwijkerland is to improve the The structure of the existing water alignment of the landscape types with the infrastructure is protected through the zoning plans characteristics and structures of the Colony and the water management plan, (Keur en Legger) landscape after nomination. of the water board. The Society and the water board Continuation of existing policy: are in consultation on the restoration of a number —— In the prevailing management regulation, of characteristic water structures, such as the the municipality of Steenwijkerland Westerbeeksloot barge canal, taking into account the has provided for adequate protection of cultural heritage. the structure and characteristics of the landscape of the outlying area around Management measures the Willemsoord core up to the time that New measures: the new environmental plan outlying —— The water board, the municipality and the area enters into force. On the basis of the Society of Benevolence will in mutual management regulation, an assessment of consultation decide on the approach the landscape characteristics of the area to the restoration of the Westerbeeksloot is required as part of the spatial planning barge canal. procedure for unplanned developments. Continuation of existing policy: This provides a basis for the control of the —— The existing hydrological system in the area is protection of the OUV; protected through specific zonings and —— Through its Tree Policy Plan, the municipality through the regulations (Keur en Legger) of Westerveld provides for the protection of the water boards. On the basis of the and the preservation/maintenance of the plans of the water board there are no risks avenue structures and forest areas present for the OUV, and the instruments provide in the Colony area, with a major part of the sufficient opportunities for control practical implementation of the measures of the preservation and the protection of for the protection and the preservation and the OUV; maintenance in the hands of the Society of —— The water board manages the waterways in Benevolence. On the basis of a list of trees accordance with the provisions in the the protection of valuable trees is provided management plan, (Keur en Legger) of for. This is further detailed in a felling the water board. concession system; —— Through the zoning plans, the landscape is the guiding factor for facilitating and 7.5.3.2 Climate change and integrating developments. environmental impact

comprehensive water management Climate change could manifest itself in the area As regards water management there are no major in the form of periods of raised water levels and tasks or developments in the area. On a small scale, dehydration. Basically, the hydrological infrastructure the water board will be looking for additional and the instruments of the water board offer sufficient opportunities for water storage. Some existing water opportunities to deal with these effects in the area. features near Boschoord might be filled in, but these 7 Section Oorden and Parten 175 Natural disasters, calamities disasters, Natural and risk preparedness turbines and there are no plans to allow no plans to allow are turbines and there these in the area; of parts of the risks of further dehydration area; Colony on or near buildings will area in the Colony be discussed with the other Colonies. The municipalities reject the placement of wind The municipalities reject the against measures takes board The water in which solar panels can be integrated The way 7.5.3.3 Continuation of existing policy: Continuation — — — — — — The area is not a high risk area for floods or a high risk area is not The area thunderstorms winds, although strong earthquakes, buildings. and hail can cause damage to plantings and planting, This particularly applies to the avenue tree apostle beeches or the remaining solitary (red) the vegetation (part the original planting). For of The a potential threat. diseases are and the planting, and planting can be partially damages to vegetation obligation, with the a replanting compensated by diseases that lead to the extinction of tree exception The damages to buildings caused of specific species. mostly and hail are thunderstorms winds, strong by taken insurance by usually covered and are reparable of the the owners who are parties the private out by buildings. The changes in climate will lead to both dehydration boards is the task of the water It and waterlogging. the existing In principle, level. the water to regulate adequate possibilities provides structure hydrological Oorden area The Colony to cope with both situations. for floods, is not located in a high risk area and Parten point of is an explicit but the risk of dehydration board. concern for the water of in the event the responsibility In the Netherlands, to the and calamities is delegated disasters natural and the area The Colony safety and security regions. Although approach. a special OUV do not require possible in the Colony landscape, subject landscape, possible in the Colony in the integrated to these being properly landscape and in compliance with building requirements. aesthetics In principle, the placement of solar panels is the placement In principle, New measures: New Management measures Management — — Gas extraction with flaring is also taking place in Gas extraction further No a risk contour. by surrounded the area, expansion but possible, is zone buffer the in expansion ruled out. Risk outside the zone cannot be entirely in connection with the also present contours are along the national substances of hazardous transport The and the railway. road part of the provincial road, extremely risk of this affecting the OUV is considered could lead to – in an explosion worst, limited. At structures, to avenue - damage principle reparable planting or buildings. An important factor affecting the climate and An important factor affecting the climate and reduction policies is the required environmental of of CO² emissions and the cut back in the use turbines is The placement of wind fossil fuels. terms of spatial and in not anticipated in the area, Colony planning placement of these in and near the need a growing however, is, out. There is ruled area of solar panels. and installation for the construction in which this This leads to discussion on the way villagescape can be facilitated. In the protected this has led to the Frederiksoord-Wilhelminaoord but on the not on the roofs of solar panels installation This applies, houses. to the colony adjacent grounds zero-emission to the 62 houses built in for example, it should be However, area. this part of the Colony on the borne in mind that the solar panels installed edge of the villagescape can negatively at the grounds of asbestos The phasing out affect the appearance. a choice for partial can prompt the roofs from particularly of solar panels on new roofs, installation for farm buildings. The Colony area is not regarded as a high risk area as a high risk area is not regarded area The Colony for floods. Colonies of Benevolence

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catastrophes in the area involving high risk substances 7.5.3.4 Impact of recreation and on the infrastructure (railway and A32 motorway), tourism and/or visitors the petrol station Frederiksoord and storage tanks Oorden and Parten for dangerous substances cannot be ruled out, the anticipated impact on the OUV is classified as The Colony area is not an isolated entity, but is extremely limited at worst. Both the motorway surrounded by National Parks (Drents Friese Wold running through the area and the railway are routes and Wieden-Weerribben) and forest areas. So far, for hazardous substances. This has been taken into the attractive landscape has led to only limited account in drawing up the plans of attack of the fire recreational pressure and the establishment of some brigade and the risk maps of the safety and security campsites and recreational accommodation parks in regions. the area. The size of the flow of tourists and holiday makers is limited. In theory, the extraction of shale gas by fracking could become an issue in the Wieden-Weerribben area It is expected that after the nomination there in the long-term, because this area was designated will be a slight increase, which should be easy to as a possible search area for a pilot. This is at some accommodate in the area. A sharp rise in the number distance from the Colony area, but the possible of tourists and holiday makers is not anticipated. The effects of shale gas extraction are difficult to define existing infrastructure, including the recreational in advance. The extraction of shale gas by fracking is infrastructure of walking, horseriding and cycling highly controversial in the Netherlands, and it was routes, is sufficiently generous to accommodate a recently decided that in the next five years no drilling growing number of tourists and holiday makers. The will take place. This period is expected to be extended visitors’ centre also offers sufficient opportunities to 2026 or beyond. and there is enough scope to receive an increasing flow of tourists and holiday makers. Consequently, no Management measures negative effects on the OUV are anticipated as a result Continuation of existing policy: of the expected and intended increase in the number —— In the Netherlands, the responsibility in the of tourists and holiday makers. event of natural disasters and calamities is delegated to the safety and security Management measures regions. The Colony area and the OUV do Continuation of existing policy: not require a special approach; —— For the time being, existing facilities offer —— The damages caused to vegetation and planting sufficient opportunities to accommodate can be partially compensated by a the intended increase in the number replanting obligation, with the exception of of tourists and holiday makers without tree diseases that lead to the extinction of a negative impact on the OUV to be specific species; expected. —— The damages to buildings caused by strong winds, thunderstorms and hail are mostly reparable and are usually covered by insurance taken out by the private parties who are the owners of the buildings. 7 Section Oorden and Parten 177 PROMOTION, INFORMATION INFORMATION PROMOTION, OORDEN IN AND EDUCATION AND PARTEN provide the agreed funding of the joint the agreed provide and the structural costs organisational for the management of the World costs of the level site at the overarching Heritage Colonies Colonies and for the three seven and Parten. of Oorden The municipalities and the provinces The municipalities and the provinces promotion New measures: New 7.5.5 sources of financing other parties of financing other sources Management measures Management — — In order to propagate Oorden and Parten, various various and Parten, Oorden to propagate In order (brochures, activities and instruments promotional deployed. etc.) are signs, planners, route website, the Society of In addition to the municipalities, might It in this regard. a role also plays Benevolence to this a house style be advisable to further develop benches, signs, this on welcome end and to introduce fences and posts. information boards, The other parties in the area will in principle each The other parties in the area of management and in respect costs bear their own the provinces This applies to the State, maintenance. also applies to the Society of It board. and the water to with regard and other site owners Benevolence and the management and maintenance of the sites attributes in their possession. in has made a provision of Drenthe The province for the designation of Memorandum its Culture of provincial as museum the new visitors’ centre it is entitled to a and in view of that status interest, impulse contribution. In addition, an extra structural for is provided the province from and investment Colonies of of the visitors’ centres the development and Veenhuizen. in Frederiksoord Benevolence SOURCES OF FINANCING SOURCES 7.5.4 of financing sources municipal As regards the management costs related to the related costs the management As regards and maintenance management municipal properties, maintenance in the municipal incorporated are plans and management plans for public space (roads, by incurred The costs and greenery). roadsides Aesthetics bringing in the Committee for Building for Committee, the Monuments and/or and Heritage for the assessment of plans and applications example included in the are permits, for environmental amounts allocated for implementing the regular Act Provisions) Licensing (General Environmental (Wabo). In respect of the period after 2018, the programme the programme of the period after 2018, In respect include budgets of the municipalities do not yet of the the costs entry to cover a structural Plan. This budget implementation of the Management organisation of the programme the costs should cover costs as the process as well level, at overarching and activities in for facilitating the feedback group information, education and the field of promotion, in the Colonies themselves. monitoring and research In the (programme) budgets of the municipalities of and Weststellingwerf, Westerveld Steenwijkerland, for costs the process included to cover amounts are in the nomination of the Colonies of Benevolence In addition, capacity has been made available 2018. support relating per municipality for administrative feedback to the nomination, the participation via the team and programme input in the core and the group Colonies group of the steering team and preparation 2018 for until The capacity reserved of Benevolence. the nomination phase will in principle be continued of the after the nomination for the implementation including management per municipality, colony mechanism between maintaining a coordination and authorities concerned in Oorden governing Parten. 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information and communication Information on Oorden and Parten is part of the Colonies of Benevolence website and can be found on the websites of the municipalities and the Society of Benevolence.

The Society of Benevolence is a participant in the project ‘One history, five stories’, which includes the realisation of visitors’ centres in the four management units, or clusters of Colonies. The realisation of visitors’ centres is thus dealt with in a joint context. The objective of the visitors’ centres is to provide the most uniform information possible on all the Colonies. In Oorden and Parten one of the four visitors’ centres of the Colonies of Benevolence will be established in the Colony Centre. The Society will be responsible for the operation of the visitors’ centre. The design, organisation and the management/operation of the visitors’ centre necessitates process agreements on the manner of consultation, coordination and possible collaboration. The visitors’ centre implements the tasks which the municipalities and the province wish to facilitate. In its Culture Memorandum, the province of Drenthe has made a provision for the co- funding of the visitors’ centre and has designated it as museum of provincial interest. The operation of the visitors’ centre is an independent task of the Society, but all parties have an explicit interest in the proper functioning of the visitors’ centre. Apart from being a partner as site manager and owner, the Society will be a partner in the field of information, education, communication and area promotion. This will also give rise to a relationship through the Colony Centre with Steenwijkerland and Weststellingwerf.

education Information boards are positioned in the Colony area and a number of cycling and walking routes also present information about the Colonies of Benevolence. Once the visitors’ centre has been realised, it can receive schools and offer educational programmes for a variety of target groups (young people and adults).

7 Section Oorden and Parten 179 7.6 Monitoring Details on the subject of monitoring are provided provided Details on the subject of monitoring are in this section it is in the main section. Therefore, sufficient to point out that the colony considered data for the monitoring of the manager will provide Heritage after the UNESCO World and Parten Oorden manager will has been obtained. The colony status and with the parties in Oorden agreements make information about the supply of the required Parten if necessary. and will initiate research

8 Section Ommerschans Management Plan World Heritage nomination — Colonies of Benevolence Colonies of Benevolence

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8.0 Introduction

The reason for preparing the Management Plan, This is the section for Colony IV: Ommerschans. section Ommerschans, is that Belgium and the In compliance with the Operational Guidelines, Netherlands have jointly decided to propose to the Management Plan stipulates how the globally UNESCO that the Colonies of Benevolence are unique significance, the “Outstanding Universal nominated for UNESCO World Heritage status. Value” (OUV), of the Colonies of Benevolence will Ommerschans is one of the total of seven Colonies of be preserved, reinforced and/or restored, taking into Benevolence founded by the Society of Benevolence account the current state, the initial circumstances, in the period 1818 to 1825. Ommerschans was the and the vision on authenticity and integrity. This first unfree Colony, founded in 1819 and realised in section lists the management measures deployed for and around the fortress (schans) after which it was Colony IV: Ommerschans in order to achieve this named. The Colony consisted of a large institution and objective. In addition, attention is given to the way sizable lands with farms. Subsequently, the Veldzicht this is ensured by the parties concerned, such as the institution arose in the Colony area. The Colony area governing authorities and other parties involved with is a living landscape where traditionally ongoing the management of the heritage. agricultural developments have taken place, which are not only properly integrated in the structures and The municipalities of Ommen and Hardenberg characteristics of the landscape, but also contribute to recognise the outstanding values of Ommerschans its preservation. and the Balkbrug environment. In this area, a combination of multiple time layers is visibly The drawing up of a Management Plan is an present: the fortification of Ommerschans, the obligatory component of the nomination file to be landscape pattern and remains of the unfree Colony submitted. The Management Plan of the Colonies of of Ommerschans of the Society of Benevolence and Benevolence consists of a main section and a sub- buildings from the period in which Veldzicht arose. section per Colony (or coherent cluster of Colonies). This led the State to definitely designate the area as Section Colony iv, 8

Ommerschans 183 The Management Plan is valid for 10 years and will for 10 years Plan is valid The Management Heritage on the date that the World enter into force carried out in the nomination is obtained. Work status with this in accordance phase is in line with and/or section. This section, Ommerschans, is an integral part of is an integral This section, Ommerschans, Plan Colonies of Benevolence, the Management In Heritage site. World nomination file UNESCO Plan the section of the Management the general dealt with. management aspects are overarching sections of Colonies separate or cluster Colony Per up with specific characteristics, been drawn have for and management measures developments IV: that section. This is the section for Colony Ommerschans. The municipalities of Hardenberg and Ommen have and Ommen have The municipalities of Hardenberg of the protected status the and safeguarded laid down in villagescape and of the national monuments aim to obtain Both municipalities municipal policy. site for the Heritage of UNESCO World the status seven villagescape as one of the of the protected area unfree the first and, of those, Colonies of Benevolence is It the Society of Benevolence. founded by colony and Ommen, together the intention of Hardenberg on the basis of a covenant with the parties in the area to concluded with those parties for this purpose, in their common interest area the further develop part of the nomination it as an integral and protect Colonies of Benevolence. protected villagescape on 24 November 2011. The on 24 November villagescape protected and the existing landscape of Ommerschans Colony as included in heritage values landscape and cultural protected are the OUV which is to be safeguarded, plans on the basis of the prevailing extent to a great that ensure the municipal instruments and and rules, in the landscape can be integrated developments any The scale of agricultural in line with the OUV. well with the in the landscape is consistent developments function as of the agricultural ongoing development of the Colony. the days from the area by experienced the specific in parts of the area In addition to this, the separate from values ecological and archaeological been have area in this Colony present time layers several into account. Besides, taken and respected been designated as national have buildings in the area monument. Colonies of Benevolence

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8.1 Outstanding Universal Value

8.1.1 OUTSTANDING UNIVERSAL The Colonies of Benevolence bear testimony to VALUE OMMERSCHANS an exceptional and large-scale early 19th century utopian experiment in social engineering, with The Colonies of Benevolence are nominated as the objective of eradicating poverty through “Cultural Landscape”. It is a transnational, serial a system of agricultural settlements. The nomination. The Colonies of Benevolence are seven Colonies demonstrate the evolution nominated on the basis of the criteria (iii), (v) and of the system with free and unfree Colonies, (vi). Each criterion is further substantiated on the and encompass the traces of its successes and basis of a total of eight essential characteristics. These failures. The experiment is an important step in essential characteristics are used for the comparative the long Western European tradition of care of analysis and the definition of the attributes. the poor and distinguishes itself by its large scale and the active role of the State. Criterion III: To bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony This is reflected in: to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is 1 The systematic disciplining (labour, living or which has disappeared. training and morality) of poor and needy citizens, organised on a national scale; 2 The building up of self-reliant communities with high quality facilities; 3 The organisation of a ‘laboratory for better citizens’, for the existing society. Section Colony iv, 8

Ommerschans 185 The joint action of citizens and State in The joint action of citizens and State The landscape of memory with its diverse Be directly or tangibly associated with events with events associated or tangibly directly Be with ideas, or with beliefs, or living traditions, of outstanding works with artistic and literary significance. universal in poverty experiment The nationally organised took the Colonies of Benevolence in reduction of the elite and the initiative as a social root combined traditional It national government. ethic charity and work like values Christian the with the ideas of the Enlightenment, such as self-reliance, belief in emancipation, makeability, between and the relationship of religion freedom had The experiment individuals and the State. on the thinking about edification impact a great and the role social mobility and of the masses, and it in that respect, of the State responsibility of the in the development marks an early step the At of social engineering. tradition European to be utopian. the ambition proved same time, the meanings, associative Due to the numerous Colonies earned their place in the collective and Flanders. memory of the Netherlands in: This is reflected 7 on a to tackling poverty approach an innovative partnership; in a public-private national scale, 8 memory meanings in the collective and evolving of the Netherlands and Belgium. Criterion VI: Criterion The cultivation and organisation and organisation The cultivation types: model with two The organisational The focus on the maximisation and Be an outstanding example of a traditional of a traditional an outstanding example Be which is human settlement, land-use, or sea-use or human (or cultures), of a culture representative when especially with the environment interaction under the impact of it has become vulnerable change. irreversible an exceptional are The Colonies of Benevolence as cultivated settlements, series of agricultural “islands” in inhospitable heath and peatland and distinctive The orthogonal structure areas. of the character of the landscape reflect layout hierarchic The strict Colonies. and unfree free the carefully with and dimensioning, structure of buildings and planting, placement considered in the intended influencing of instrumental was The current of the inhabitants. the behaviour the extent, illustrate landscapes cultural of this social the ambition and the evolution experiment. in: This is reflected 4 settlements closed agricultural of extensive and structure hierarchic with a strict out with the aim of working dimensioning, solution on a national scale to an integrated of poverty; the problem 5 was The system Colonies. and unfree free of the poor and groups focused on all the target according based on the belief in progress, needy, forms could be solved; in all its to which poverty 6 productivity the optimisation of agricultural the colonists. by Criterion V: Criterion Colonies of Benevolence

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The landscape of the Colonies of Benevolence is were largely sold, but until recently patients unique in that it bears material and authentic witness of Veldzicht were regularly employed at some of to the large-scale efforts of the social elite, inspired the farms. by the Enlightenment, to solve the early 19th century urban poverty problem. The comprehensive objective The most important attributes are: of on the one hand self-reliance and on the other hand —— The basic typology of the free and unfree order and discipline through labour and training, is Colonies of Benevolence; clearly reflected in the design and the coherence of —— The structure of the landscape, consisting landscape and buildings. The layout of the landscape of roads and avenue structures, water is directly connected to the organisational model of structures, the measurement system the respective Colony (free or unfree, with different applied, and the grid of the buildings; regimes). The free Colonies have a pattern of long —— The buildings and planting representative of the ribbons with small farms, while the unfree Colonies experiment in poverty reduction and its have a pattern with a central institution, surrounded ongoing development. by large farms. The typology of an unfree colony was applied for the first time in an abandoned fortress: ‘De Characteristics Ommerschans in Ommerschans’. Thousands of poor people and vagrants relation to the OUV were accommodated there. Exemplary colonists from the free Colonies could become free farmers here. Typology: At the same time, Ommerschans was also the penal Pilot design unfree colony, with an institution (former colony where less exemplary free colonists were sent. fortress) as an isolated element in the landscape. The cultivation took place on (excavated) peat bogs, in Structure of the landscape: which a water structure was realised which also served Previous landscaping (fortress), high degree of for transport. Along these ditches, ribbons with big openness, cultivation by Society, farm ribbons farms arose. The institution was located some distance with avenue planting; path system between institution away, on account of the location of the abandoned and lands. fortification. Every day the colonists, with their guards, Representative buildings and planting: walked via a system of paths to the farms or workshops Location of the former fortress/institution, buildings where they were employed. from the first and the third phases: church, doctor’s The landscape structure is determined by a house, colony farms Hoeves 4, 8 and 11, guard houses grid with in east-west direction the paths leading (limiethuisjes), ongoing development Veldzicht to the institution and in north-south direction the institution, including tied houses and other buildings ditches with farm ribbons, most of which led to the from the third phase, trees and tree species from the Dedemsvaart canal (the water connection). Through construction phase. the redevelopment of the location of the fortification Landscape of memory: a compact settlement emerged as an autonomous Archaeological complex fortress and cemetery. element in the agricultural landscape, where personnel was also accommodated. In 1859, Ommerschans was taken over by the State of The Netherlands. Years later a State Correctional Institution for Boys was established in one of the former farms of the Society. The institution in the fortress was demolished and the farmlands 8 Ommerschans Section Colony iv ,

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Ommerschans offers representative reflections of all three criteria of the OUV:

1. TRADITION III. LANDSCAPE OF DISCIPLINING: 2. SELF-RELIANT 3. MINI-SOCIETY FOR SOCIAL ENGINEERING EDUCATION, CARE, COMMUNITIES ALL DENOMINATIONS PUNISHMENT

IV. Ommerschans Fortifications Plot areas of originally 21 Boskerk (church) Ommerschans farms about 35 ha each Rectory Staff housing Veldzicht Main building Veldzicht Guard house (limiethuisje)

V. LARGE-SCALE 4. INTEGRATED 5. ORGANISATIONAL 6. AGRICULTURAL CULTIVATION SOLUTION POVERTY MODEL FREE/UNFREE INNOVATION LANDSCAPE PROBLEM

IV Ommerschans Central institution in Hoeves (farms) 4, former fortress after 8 and 11 adaptive re-use, with large farms connected via avenues

VI. PRECURSOR 7. SOCIAL INITIATIVE ELITE 8. LANDSCAPE OF MEMORY WELFARE STATE

IV. Ommerschans Tied house Villa Erica Public cemetery

* Cultivation landscape: soil, water, roads, plot size, tree and greenery structure Earmarked as representative planting: elms, stinzen flora and fluttering elm. Colonies of Benevolence

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8.1.2 INTEGRITY AND Colony have been demolished and/or adjusted and AUTHENTICITY renovated in such a way that they can no longer be considered as recognisable and authentic. The Colonies of Benevolence are cultural landscapes In the area of the protected villagescape, several consisting of cultivated rough ground, and developed authentic and genuine attributes from the different into agricultural colonies with a view to eradicating phases are present. These provide a representative poverty through labour, training and disciplining. picture of the history and make the story of the Until today, that basic principle and objective remain Colonies of Benevolence visible and perceptible. recognisable in the orthogonally structured landscape Besides specific attributes (main avenues, secondary with avenues, meadows, fields and forests, and avenues, waterways, fortress and various buildings), with the characteristic houses, farms, institutions, the grid with the corresponding structure and churches, schools, and industrial buildings. character (open as well as closed) of the landscape is In the establishment and the development of the still particularly recognisable and perceptible. In the Colonies of Benevolence, the following periods can be context of the nomination, the attributes are assessed recognised: in terms of recognisability and authenticity: 1 Preliminary phase: the period before 1 Attribute possesses authenticity and the arrival of the Society of Benevolence, with integrity, and gives a good and perceptible undeveloped heaths and bogs with sporadic impression of how the attribute looked in the cultivation; historical context in the period concerned; 2 Foundation phase: cultivation and 2 Attribute illustrates what it was organisation by the Society of Benevolence historically, but the historical context has not (1818–1825); been well preserved; 3 The further evolution of the Colonies 3 Attribute is damaged element in relation (varying in time per Colony; roughly 1825–1859); to what it looked like at the time of landscaping/ 4 Phase of state institutions in the unfree construction; Colonies, partial privatisation in the free 4 Attribute concerns element that does not Colonies, and increases in scale in all the originate from the selected period, but with Colonies (varying in time per Colony, roughly regard to which the historical positioning has after 1859); been respected, particularly placement in and 5 Phase of redevelopment and valuation of respect for the grid. the heritage (starting from the period 1980– 1990). ommerschans The institution that was built within the fortress at The recognisability and authenticity of the Colony Ommerschans is demolished in its entirety. In the soil of Ommerschans are to be found mainly in the only remnants of the foundations remain, for example structures and characteristics of the landscape, and of the institution and the hospital, as well as parts of also in some specific objects and buildings that have the paving of the courtyard. The institution itself did been preserved from the time of the Colony. Because not develop any further. It was closed in 1890 and of the further development of the village of Balkbrug demolished shortly afterwards. (development of residential areas and business Around the fortress some elements can be activities), the ongoing development of Veldzicht and directly associated with the history as a penal colony, the agricultural function of the area, changes in the including an ice house and the former doctor’s house structure and characteristics of the landscape have of the Colony. The location of the former Dutch taken place, while several objects from the days of the Reformed church, or the so-called Boskerk, is visually Section Colony iv, 8

Ommerschans 189 (pots period, the Colony pans) from and prior to older periods, but also partly from and the Colony. of the fortress the days veldzicht The extensive central building complex dating building complex central The extensive caused institution of the State The establishment Veldzicht arose at a later date and was built by the by built at a later date and was arose Veldzicht 6, nr. of the farm Hoeve on the grounds Judiciary Chief Engineer-Architect Metzelaar, W.C. designed by used the existing He for Prisons and Court Buildings. its landscape pattern as a basis and enhanced positioning the careful planological effect through green of the layout of buildings and the systematic same the was Architect Government Chief The spaces. is a resemblance there which is why as in Veenhuizen, and the kind of tied housing the architecture between in both territories. realised that was and early 20th centuries underwent late 19th from Inside the moat, only the main significant changes. although remained, 1894 building dating from The façade completely renewed. its interior was in the same style in its original state, largely remained structure symmetrical highly a with houses, tied the as the façade On the Ommerweg detailing. and elaborate hides largely and a dominating presence constitutes The moat, the (original) view. the new buildings from help forecourt gate and the park-like entrance of this part of atmosphere contribute to the estate-like the territory. On the in Balkbrug. population growth a strong that connected realised tied housing was Ommerweg, being to the north, which was with the village centre at the junction with the Dedemsvaart developed became the second main canal. The Ommerweg part of the which was This former tied housing, axis. largely has remained Metzelaar, W.C. design by overall intact as a unit: double houses in a simple neo style, or at avenues – at the tops of positioned in such a way – that the Ommerweg example, for the beginning of, planological effect. The roads a strong they also have with tight avenue provided were Veldzicht around a link which created oaks, predominantly planting, large plots in a fixed grid, the orthogonal plots in a fixed large with avenue structure the road structure, ‘dronkemanslaantje’, planting (for example ), and the water or ‘lane of the drunkards’ management; been preserved; farms have which three of the Colony; example, for of, excavations by visible made and parts of the foundations of the fortress the time of the Colony, the buildings from artefacts of numerous and the discovery Three of the 21 original colony farms were farms were 21 original colony of the Three On the Boslaan a so-called ‘limiethuisje’ (edge The authenticity of Ommerschans in: is reflected arose; within which the institution The fortress with landscape, cultivation The large-scale The farms and their location in the grid, of the time from with nature The ecological values in the soil and partly present The archaeology — — — — — — — — — — enhanced by three rows of avenue planting of oaks of avenue rows three enhanced by built was This church and beeches on the driveway. After an adaptive of Ommerschans. for the colonists a small-scale residential it is now operation re-use The rectory unit for people with a mental disability. is located south The old cemetery also preserved. was one divided in two: This cemetery was of the fortress. the Protestants. the other for side for the Catholics, including 500 buried there, beggars are Some 5.500 were fence and the information pavilion The children. added. recently on the south side of the 4, Hoeve preserved: 11, on the north side 8 and Hoeve Hoeve Balkerweg, of this type Characteristic Schansweg. of the Eerste are of farm is that the living quarters and the barn This type volumes. separate albeit in two linked, been as having can be interpreted of construction The farm type. or Saxon the Hallen from derived of the yard, situated at the front living quarters are with the stable/barn to the road. behind, parallel of a house) is to be found, the only one to survive each one situated at the edge of the area whole series, the Colony. with a view to guarding Colonies of Benevolence

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with the avenue pattern of the Society of Benevolence. The Ommerweg as main axis was emphasised by lime trees. Near the tied housing, which was somewhat set back, these trees were placed within the hedges of the front gardens. Solitary trees, with beeches and chestnuts, were planted close to important buildings or on plot corners. The substantial afforestation is also part of the design. In built-up areas deliberate use was made of the contrast between forest and open spaces. Compared to the surrounding rectilinear outlying area, Ommerschans with Veldzicht stands out as a closed, green space. The ensemble also includes Villa Erica, the former home of the medical director. This is a white plastered chalet-style-inspired villa, centrally located left of the main building.

The authenticity of Veldzicht is reflected in: —— The façade of the main building; —— The tied housing; —— The villa Erica. 8 Ommerschans Section Colony iv ,

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8.2 Colony of Ommerschans

8.2.1 Location and boundaries In all seven Colonies, generic protection of the OUV in and around the property applies. (See The property of Ommerschans is the area designated the Management Plan including its sub-sections). as protected villagescape. This is also the area to To protect the OUV against external influences that which the nomination as World Heritage site applies. might affect it, the following principle was adopted: This property is the area in which the OUV manifests Where the landscape is of an open nature (Colonies itself and in which the whole of interconnected I, II, III and VI), a buffer zone has been designated. attributes (typology, structure of the landscape and Where an ‘internal buffer’ is present because the the representative buildings and planting) which view of and from the Colony is protected by forest express the main characteristics of the OUV are (Colonies V and VII), a buffer zone is considered recognisable and the most perceptibly present. unnecessary. Where the core zone is bordered at a considerable distance in relation to the attributes In determining the boundaries of the Colonies of (Colony IV), no buffer zone has been added. Benevolence, the total area cultivated by the Society of Benevolence by the end of the foundation phase (1818- The landscape in and around Colony IV, 1825) served as the basic principle. This principle Ommerschans, is of an open character. The property concerns the total of the seven Colonies. Within these of Ommerschans is a specific example of the cultivation boundaries, the proposed property is the characteristic grid of the Colony landscape, and is area in which the essential expression of the OUV can relatively spaciously bordered in relation to the most be recognised, because all the relevant attributes that important attributes in the heart of this Colony. Here, give expression to the OUV are located here, strongly a large property without buffer zone is proposed, interrelated. These areas together constitute the instead of the alternative: a small property with proposed property. a buffer zone in which some attributes would be located. A buffer zone in order to connect the property Colonies of Benevolence

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with the surrounding area is also unnecessary. The the principle that Ommerschans is an agricultural property is located within the boundaries of the State- development area (LOG) with historical and cultural protected villagescape. The surrounding area has a values, and that in the past these values, with respect large-scale allotment structure, in which the roads for one anothers’ initiatives, have always been and the water structure are the basis for agricultural compatible. All the parties are of the opinion that the functions. space that is and will be created for agriculture in the LOG area should be preserved. The surrounding With the boundaries thus opted for with only the area of the protected villagescape has and will retain property, being the area designated as protected a primary agricultural function, without additional villagescape, proposed to be nominated as World cultural heritage limitations applying in relation Heritage site, there is no tension with the surrounding to current zoning plans and frameworks of water agricultural area. In a separate covenant, parties in management. Therefore, the open character of the the area have indicated that they will respect one surrounding area will also be safeguarded in the another’s interests and initiatives on the basis of future in the context of its agricultural function.

→ Ommerschans (IV), cemetery near the former Institution (J.V.L.) 8 Ommerschans Section Colony iv ,

M1.6 IDENTIFICATION Identification COLONY 15 — OMMERSCHANS Colony1:50.000 IV: Ommerschans 1:50.000

Linde 193 52°38'30"N

Nolde

Schrapveen 52°38'0"N

Oud-Avereest 52°37'30"N 52°37'0"N 52°36'30"N

Balkbrug 52°36'0"N

Ommerschans 52°35'30"N 52°35'0"N Vinkenbuurt 52°34'30"N 52°34'0"N Witharen 52°33'30"N 52°33'0"N Property Bufferzone

Coordinate System: RD New Projection: Double Stereographic Datum: Amersfoort 52°32'30"N Units: Meter

0 1 Km. Oudleusen 52°32'0"N

6°19'0"E 6°19'30"E 6°20'0"E 6°20'30"E 6°21'0"E 6°21'30"E 6°22'0"E 6°22'30"E 6°23'0"E 6°23'30"E 6°24'0"E 6°24'30"E 6°25'0"E 6°25'30"E 6°26'0"E 6°26'30"E Colonies of Benevolence

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8.2.2 QUALITATIVE DESCRIPTION 24 large farms were to arise, of which eventually 21 OF OMMERSCHANS were actually realised.

At the end of the 19th century, a State Correctional 8.2.2.1 Broad outline Institution for Boys – Veldzicht – was founded on the site of one of the former colony farms (Hoeve nr. 6). The unfree colony of Ommerschans is the first It started off with an agricultural and horticultural example in the series of Colonies where paupers training, subsequently supplemented by crafts and beggars were accommodated to perform tuition. From 1933 the site has been in use as a TBS forced labour. In 1819, an existing defence structure, institution: a clinic for people with a psychiatric a fortress, and the surrounding area were put at the disorder placed under a court hospital order by the disposal of the Society of Benevolence to establish an Judiciary (TBS). unfree (punishment and beggars) Colony there. The Colony of Ommerschans is located just south of the Dedemsvaart canal and the village of Balkbrug. The 8.2.2.2 Historical origins characteristic basic structure of the unfree Colonies is clearly recognisable; a central beggars’ institution Three periods can be distinguished in the evolution with collective facilities, surrounded by the labour of the Colony of Ommerschans: farms. They are connected through a tight grid of —— Preliminary phase/natural basis: waterways and roads. Because this Colony was Period up till 1819; constructed on the basis of the existing fortress, the —— Phase 1: Period 1819 to 1859; central part has a number of design characteristics —— Phase 3: Nationalisation from 1859. which it does not have in common with the other unfree Colonies. The table below provides an overview of the time layers present in Ommerschans, linked to the sub- In Ommerschans, a large institution to accommodate aspects of the OUV criteria, including the date of State 1200 inhabitants was built on the foundations of protection. the former military defence structure; measuring 100 by 100 metres, it was considered the largest building of the country at the time. The building had blind exterior walls, and as a result was oriented entirely towards a central courtyard. A small wall divided this yard in two, thus creating a men’s and a women’s quarter. The main building consisted of 30 dormitories, with houses for the supervisors of the dormitories in between, and small extensions for the kitchen, staff accommodation. The attics accommodated looms, and on the courtyard there were workshops for activities like spinning and weaving. In fact the only aspect in which the unfree Colony differed from the older detention centres was the work regime, as the colonists were put to work on cultivating – under strict military supervision – the lands around the institution. West of the institution, 8 Ommerschans Section Colony iv ,

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4. OMMERSCHANS III–1 III–2 III-3 V-4 V-5 V-6 VI-7 VI-8

Preliminary phase/natural basis X

Phase 1: Period 1819 to 1859 X X X X (B) unfree X X

Phase 3: Nationalisation from1859 X X X X (B) unfree X

State protection: from 2011 X unfree (X) X

preliminary phase/natural basis: founding in 1819 period prior to 1819 In the beginning of 1819, Johannes van den Bosch In the days of the fortress, Ommerschans was a large proposed the establishment of a separate Colony swamp. For a major part of the year, the area was for beggars. For this purpose, he already had a practically inaccessible. In some places, the swamp location in mind: the abandoned military fortress was cut through by sandy ridges. These ridges ‘’De Ommerschans’ in the province of Overijssel. formed the only road through the swamp. During the The complex was acquired in usufruct, but the Royal Eighty Year War against the Spanish army, fortresses permission to establish a beggars’ Colony here was were constructed on these routes through the bog slow to materialise. Meanwhile, Van den Bosch used for the protection of the three northern provinces: De Ommerschans for a different purpose, because it the Eemslinie (“line of the Eems’’). Around 1624, soon became apparent that not every family in the a start was made with the new construction of the free Colonies adhered to the strict work schedule Ommerschans fortification, which took four years without complaint, abstained from alcohol or refrained to complete. For safety reasons, the grounds around from ‘less decent’ behaviour. Contrary to the original the fortress were kept swampy. The fortress was principles, punishment was clearly required to dismantled several times between 1628 and 1810, and maintain the order. From 1820 onwards, therefore, even partly demolished, to be reconstructed again the first recalcitrant colonists could be received at times of new (international) threats. All in all, the in the first penal Colony of Ommerschans, in the fortress hardly ever needed to be ready for action, refurbished buildings within the fortress. Work began except in the historical Disaster Year of 1672. Around on the cultivation of the heaths around the fortress 1800, after the annexation of the Netherlands by for the future construction of this Colony. Under King the Napoleonic Empire in 1810, the fortification had William I, the fortification became the centre of the lost its military significance, and Ommerschans fell so-called beggars’ Colony, the ‘Colony of the Society of into decay. Recently the fortification, consisting of Benevolence’. Beggars, the homeless and the penalised moats, bastions and ravelins, was partly restored and were housed here and had to perform all kinds of jobs made more visible and perceptible in the landscape for a poor wage and a meal. Institutionalisation here by the Forestry Commission and the Foundation was not voluntary. On the fortification, in terms of that Participation Ommerschans (Stichting Participatie time a colossal building measuring 100 by 100 metres Ommerschans). was constructed to accommodate the various functions. Around the fortification, a large area was cultivated in plots on which farms were built and crops grown. The conditions for the inhabitants were miserable. Colonies of Benevolence

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nationalisation from 1859 Inside the moat, the main building dating from In 1859, the Dutch State took over the unfree Colonies 1894 remained, but its interior was renovated. At of Veenhuizen, Ommerschans and the Agricultural present the Forensic Psychiatric Centre Veldzicht is Institute in Wateren from the Society of Benevolence. established there. At the same time, radical changes took place in the building stock in Ommerschans. As a result of the kind of colonists that were institutionalised there, so 8.2.2.3 Current meaning many social problems had amassed that in 1890 the decision was taken to demolish the institution. On characteristic landscape pattern another location in the Colony, a new institution for Based on the existing star-shaped fortress and the boys with behavioural problems was built. This State Dedemsvaart canal, a tight orthogonal grid of roads, Correctional Institution for Boys, which opened in waterways and ditches was constructed, which has 1894 and was situated north of Ommerschans, was largely remained preserved. Perpendicular to the named Veldzicht, so as not to burden the boys who Dedemsvaart canal there were a number of north- were to be institutionalised there in advance with south waterways, with on either side a towpath or the negative reputation triggered by the name of a narrow road. Most of these have meanwhile been Ommerschans. North of the building, a number of tied filled in and replaced by a road. Avenue planting houses were built. The director resided in a spacious provides a contrast with the open farmlands and villa, called Villa Erica, south of Veldzicht. meadows, and emphasises the pattern of rectangular agricultural plots measuring 35 hectares each, each The new buildings in both Colonies were designed time with a farm at the top of a narrow east-west oak by the Ministry of Justice’s own architect, the ‘Chief avenue. The distance between the roads and ditches Engineer-Architect for Prisons and Court Buildings’. in north-west direction is about 400 metres. A large Until 1883, this position was held by J.F. Metzelaar sr. number of older colony farms were replaced, but the In 1883 he was replaced by his son W.C. Metzelaar, position and orientation of the farm in the plot was who remained in service until 1914. In Ommerschans, preserved, so that the cultivation landscape is still as in Veenhuizen, the hierarchic system was reflected readable. All the farms have a representative front in the architecture. The ranks and positions of house, oriented towards the road, with a symmetrical personnel were made visible in the typology and the layout and the entrance facing the street, often in the decoration of the buildings. There were, for example, axis of an avenue. seven types of houses, associated with the function Currently the area can be characterised as of the staff member. The post and the morality were an open landscape, in which avenue planting and depicted in the inscriptions on the façades of the hedgerows as line elements visually divide the space. houses. The centre is formed by a wooded area around the Veldzicht institution and the former fortress, which Developments in the twentieth century show a contrasts with the (semi) open landscape and, partly reinforcement of the path chosen. In 1933, on the as a result of the avenue planting, radiates an ‘estate- basis of the Psychopath Law, Ommerschans acquired like atmosphere’. The contrast of the open landscape a new function as a State Asylum to house ‘deranged with the introverted world of the fortress with the criminals’. Since then, the building complex has been institution and its facilities is striking. Such a contrast renovated and expanded a number of times. In the is less pronounced in the other unfree Colonies. seventies of the twentieth century, a masterplan was In the area around Veldzicht, ribbons of tied adopted. houses for personnel are situated along the main road. More to the south, this road now cuts through Section Colony iv, 8

Ommerschans 197 cultural heritage greenery greenery heritage cultural As regards the Colony period, Ommerschans the Colony As regards that are structures The above-ground clearly represented. still period are Colony Although the green elements from the time of the elements from Although the green and shrubs still trees limited, the existing are fortress important information on the usage and visual reflect period of approximately the Colony From history. heritage much of the cultural relatively 1819–1890, aspect is the A striking has been preserved. greenery the fortification north from lane situated preserved the by Judging 1845. dating from to the small church the lane is as rings of one of the common oaks, growth trees Several older. even or maybe old as the church for example: 1850–1889, the period around date from side a west with on the avenue fortress the westerly side common of fluttering elms and on the east row scattered Other 1880. possibly planted around oaks, white horse chestnut sylvatica), beeches (Fagus fluttering elm, field maple hippocastanea), (Aesculus pseudoplatanus), (Acer sycamore campestre), (Acer pseudoacacia) probably (Robinia ash and black locust Among the species of shrubs 1880. around date from mention as we of the Colony the days dating from as for a large part visibly above the surface. the surface. part visibly above as for a large other Colonies of the Society itself from distinguishes such as other Colonies, Whereas of Benevolence. continued to develop and Veenhuizen, Frederiksoord except Ommerschans, been dissolved, after having almost survived for the demolition of the buildings, Ommerschans occupies this reason, unscathed. For in the a special position, which could be retained in the soil should interventions this, achieve To future. conservation- more limited and a different, be very oriented, means of visualisation is sought. phases and the fortress of the different reminiscent plants on planting, in the upward present They are Due ditches and relief. structures, water the ground, from hidden largely are these structures to storage, the right places from the storage removing By view. these spaces and it in place, leaving deliberately or by are of Ommerschans, and hence the past structures, and will be made visible again in a simple way. century th ommerschans as archaeologically ommerschans as archaeologically area valuable functional use Within this park forest the remaining part of the remaining this park forest Within cultivation structure became a basis for the landscape, became a basis for the landscape, structure cultivation recent as the more in which the older phases as well as regards been integrated have developments buildings and planting. structure, the former fortress, of which the eastern part with of which the eastern the former fortress, The 19 remains. moat still the star-shaped The old fortress and surroundings, the military and surroundings, The old fortress re-used for the establishment was fortification that with a is an area these days Colony, of an unfree landscaped park forest. the with thestar-shaped relict, moat is a recognisable of the demolished beggars’ remnants archaeological The location of some in the middle. institution determined has been disappeared buildings that have of on the basis of a few metres with the accuracy study of charts. and field surveys trenches, exploration periodevery remnants of that showed The field surveys under the surface as well both invisibly present, still are To this day, the large-scale cultivation landscape cultivation large-scale the this day, To of Part offers ample opportunities for agriculture. into Ommerschans has developed around the area with relatively area development an agricultural In the companies. profitable economically large, space for requiring these companies will keep future along with trends and to move further development Space sector. in the agricultural and developments development in the agricultural which is available of running its sector is proud The agricultural area. on the basis of the grid area businesses in this historic of the Society of Benevolence. days in the created to maintain the the sector wants the same time, At of its businesses in the scope for ongoing development limitations that apply within the The existing future. villagescape on the basis of the protected property, accepted. This also are zoning plans, and prevailing development applies to the part of the agricultural villagescape. located in the protected area Colonies of Benevolence

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possibilities: bird cherry, alder buckthorn, common honeysuckle, hazelnut tree, single-seeded hawthorn, common snowberry (Symphoricarpos albus) and juneberry (Amelanchier lamarckii). No clear remnant could be found of the garden of the Colony, although a number of decorative herbs were discovered, for example bulbs which are regarded as so-called stinzen flora. From the late 19th and the 20th century, different beds of varying age are present. In particular many ash trees were planted, but also common oaks, Norway spruces, robinia and beeches (and other species), often with an undergrowth of bird cherry, juneberry etc., possibly deliberately planted to cultivate the trees branch-free. 8 Ommerschans Section Colony iv ,

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8.3 Safeguarding in legal and policy frameworks

8.3.1 LEGAL AND POLICY 8.3.2 STATE FRAMEWORKS OMMERSCHANS In the Netherlands, legislation for spatial planning and heritage is currently being simplified and made Colony IV: Ommerschans is located in the province more integral. The new Heritage Act (formerly of Overijssel in the municipalities of Ommen and Monuments and Historic Buildings Act and other Hardenberg. For the Colony of Ommerschans, the legislation) has entered into force on 1 July 2016. different governing authorities in the Netherlands With regard to the immovable heritage, this Act have taken decisions and adopted plans which offer focuses on the preservation, the protection and the protection to the values of the heritage. Several spatial restoration of the built or landscaped objects (national plans apply to the area. monuments) and archaeological monuments. Up to The main section is referred to with regard to 2019, the spatial protection of the heritage values the international frameworks provided by UNESCO. in the Netherlands will be regulated through the In this section the legal and policy frameworks, plans Spatial Planning Act (Wro). The new Environment and regulations applying to Ommerschans at national, & Planning Act, which will in future regulate the provincial and municipal level are dealt with. These spatial protection of heritage values, will enter into plans each have their own term. In future, when force in 2019. The Environment & Planning Act updating these plans and drafting new plans, the OUV offers good opportunities for the integral protection will explicitly be taken into account. Where possible of the OUV in areas, and for the integral assessment it will be endeavoured to achieve consistency in the of developments. The Act contains separate, generic contents of the plans and to synchronise the terms of rules regarding the safeguarding of the qualities of a the plans. World Heritage site, and puts the State in a position to issue instructions to other governing authorities in respect of the safeguarding of the values of UNESCO Colonies of Benevolence

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World Heritage sites. On the basis of the instructional water. Eventually, a serious reduction of these provision ‘world heritage’ in the Environment & frameworks will be achieved under the Environment Planning Act, it is considered to offer the Colonies & Planning Act. Upon the entry into force of the of Benevolence similar protection to that currently Environment & Planning Act, a generous transitional enjoyed by the World Heritage sites ‘De Beemster’ period will apply, which should allow provinces and ‘Stelling van Amsterdam’ (Defence Line of and municipalities to gradually start operating in Amsterdam). In consultation with the provinces, conformity with the Environment & Planning Act. municipalities and stakeholders involved, the State One of the consequences of this will be that during will establish further details of this instructional a transitional period, recently adopted prevailing provision. The objective of this exercise is to ensure zoning plans will serve as environmental plans. consistency in respect of the impact of policies in Moreover, it implies that also after the entry into force all the provinces and municipalities. This will take of the Environment & Planning Act, the protection of place in the context of a consistent framework of the OUV on the basis of the provincial and municipal agreements, focused on the adequate safeguarding frameworks will still be conducted in accordance with of the OUV of the Colonies of Benevolence in all various frameworks, in line with the existing practice. the Dutch municipalities. In this context, further Part of the framework of agreements between the agreements will also be made concerning the State, provinces, municipalities and stakeholders, will transition of the prevailing frameworks (zoning plan) be focused on the most effective way to organise the to the future frameworks (environmental plan), process for optimising the protection of the OUV. including the period of transitional legislation. With regard to Ommerschans, the property as As per 1 January 2017, in addition to the Heritage submitted for nomination by the State was designated Act and the Environment & Planning Act, legislation as protected villagescape in 2011 on the basis of the regarding nature areas will also change. From that Monument & Historic Buildings Act 1988. After entry date, the new Nature Conservation Act will replace into force of the Environment & Planning Act and the current Nature Conservation Act, the Flora and the recognition as UNESCO World Heritage site, it Fauna Act and the Forestry Act, and will eventually is considered to declare the instructional provision be incorporated in the Environment & Planning Act. ‘world heritage’ on the basis of the Environment & This Act will also contribute to the preservation of the Planning Act applicable to the entire property, so that nature values related to the OUV. the total area of the property and all attributes in this property relevant to the nomination will be subject In this way, the protection of heritage (built to the protective effect of the protected villagescape monuments, archaeology, areas) nature and landscape, Ommerschans-Balkbrug. and its incorporation in provincial and municipal environmental visions, environmental plans and In the zoning plans of the municipalities of environmental permits is and will be safeguarded in Hardenberg and Ommen, the status of protected the Netherlands, as well as the harmonisation with villagescape has been reinforced by including a double the water management plans of the water boards. zoning cultural heritage (through the revised zoning plan Ommen this also applies to the zoning plan This Management Plan is based on the prevailing outlying area Ommen). In addition, all the objects protection measures following from the current that are part of the attributes, component buildings, provincial and municipal visions and plans, and are also designated as national monument under the implementation arrangements and directives in Monuments & Historic Buildings Act, and per 1 July the field of space, heritage, landscape, nature and 2016 the Heritage Act. It concerns 19 objects (of which 8 Ommerschans Section Colony iv ,

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3 in Ommen and 16 in Hardenberg), that are buildings remaining from the Colony period ( 1819–1859) and the historic State Judicial buildings of Veldzicht.

On the basis of the designation as protected villagescape and/or national monument, the municipality is obliged to request the advice of the Monuments Committee in case of applications for a building permit, a demolition permit, or an environmental permit (in both municipalities this in practical terms means a request for advice at Het Oversticht). In the protected villagescape, the strictest building regulations apply, in accordance with the Building Aesthetics Policy Documents of both municipalities. Consequently, these regulations also apply to those buildings and building structures in the property not designated as national monument, on the basis of the designation as protected villagescape. The following overview schematically indicates through which instruments the OUV, and particularly the attributes, are/will be protected by the State, province and municipalities7: Colonies of Benevolence

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ATTRIBUTES PRIOR TO 2019 AFTER 2019

Typology Multiple designations Protected Instructional provision ‘world villagescape based on the heritage’ Monument & Historic Buildings Act Environmental vision province Environmental visions provinces Environmental vision municipality Structural visions municipalities Environmental plan (integral) Zoning plans on the basis of double Environmental permit zoning Cultural policy province Heritage policy municipality Environmental permit

Structure of the landscape Multiple designations Protected Instructional provision ‘world villagescape based on the heritage’ Monument & Historic Buildings Act Environmental vision province Environmental visions provinces Environmental vision municipality Structural visions municipalities Environmental plan (integral) Zoning plans Environmental permit Underlying plans: Architectural guidelines Landscape plan/map Cultural heritage map Map of Archaeological values National Ecological Network Environmental permit

Representative buildings Monument status State based on Monument status State based on the Heritage Act the Heritage Act Monument regulations Monument regulations Zoning plans on the basis of double Environmental plan (integral) zoning Opinion Committee for Building Opinion Committee for Building Aesthetics and Heritage/ Spatial Aesthetics and Heritage/Spatial Quality Quality Environmental permit Environmental permit

Representative planting Forestry Act, Flora and Fauna Act Nature Conservation Act and Nature Conservation Act incorporated in Environment General Municipal Bye-Law/ Timber & Planning Act Regulation, varying interpretations Municipal regulation Tree Policy Plan Section Colony iv, 8 Ommerschans 203 MUNICIPALITY OF OMMEN MUNICIPALITY

structural vision structural vision cultural policy cultural 8.3.4 Through the 2016 revision of the Environmental of the Environmental revision 2016 the Through The heritage policy is set out in the Culture The heritage policy is set out in the Culture in de – 2020 “Cultuur 2017 Memorandum en vernieuwen” versterken verbinden, schijnwerpers, and reinforcing connecting, (Spotlight on culture, the Implementation Programme and renewing) In the Culture 2017 – 2020. Overijssel Culture are of Benevolence the Colonies Memorandum, theme of exceptional designated as a historic that reason, For for the identity of Overijssel. interest specific will receive the Colonies of Benevolence the Culture by attention in the policy period covered Memorandum. Plan (GOP/2013), Environmental In the Municipal vision for as the structural which also serves Ommen, the municipality of Ommen has designated heritage and landscape Ommerschans as cultural developments GOP facilitates agricultural The entity. in the vicinity of Ommerschans in terms of up- modernisation and intensification, partly scaling, development of agricultural the status by prompted with the in accordance area of the Vinkenbuurt area the The GOP also stipulates Law. Reconstruction the quality of the and preserve ambition to protect heritage. Features Catalogue. At present, the Environmental the Environmental present, At Catalogue. Features to the heritage does not assign a special status Vision of Ommerschans. value and the cultural this has been adjusted, Vision of the parts of the Colonies of heritage values of in respect located in Overijssel Benevolence explicitly and Ommerschans are Willemsoord this named and indicated on the map accompanying Vision. Environmental PROVINCE OF OVERIJSSEL PROVINCE environmental vision environmental 8.3.3 The Environmental Vision of the province serves serves of the province Vision The Environmental Stakeholders include organisations such as the include organisations Stakeholders Participation the Foundation Commission, Forestry These organisations and Veldzicht. Ommerschans, implementing plans that adopted and are have and in the preservation contribute to the protection, of the visibility and perceptibility part the (renewed) surroundings the and Ommerschans in values heritage into account the Plans which take of Balkbrug. of the status on the basis of preserved to be values and subsequently the villagescape, State-protected heritage’. These plans ‘world provision instructional under Organisation. will be dealt with in chapter 4, The province of Overijssel has laid down its has laid down of Overijssel The province in the 2009 environment policy for the physical accompanying and Overijssel Vision Environmental area The Colony implementation programme. with area Ommerschans is situated in the “outlying the agricultural In these areas, emphasis production”. the area is a guiding factor as regards development modernisation, up-scaling Further development. These are possible. farming are stock and intensive of avenues, the spatial customisation where areas is of forest and tracts ribbon development waterways, with up-scaling.in perfect harmony The municipality on the basis municipality of Ommen is a restructuring in and of the area Part Law. of the Reconstruction villagescape of Ommerschans outside the protected with area, development is designated as agricultural In the production. the main focus on agricultural on either side of the the area Vision, Environmental is designated as part and the Balkerweg Ommerweg with nature Network, Ecological of the provincial as its main focus. development when the Even as a guideline for the municipalities. Vision, the Environmental from municipalities deviate of should entail a reinforcement spatial developments Area the spatial quality on the basis of the provincial Colonies of Benevolence

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zoning plans heritage policy The zoning plan Outlying Area Ommen (2010) covers In the Heritage Memorandum “Future for heritage the entire outlying area of the municipality. The Ommen” (Toekomst voor erfgoed Ommen), a whole of the Colony area located in the municipality proactive heritage policy is presented. In 2013, the of Ommen is covered by this zoning plan. In the Heritage Memorandum was included in the GOP. zoning plan for the outlying area, the designation as The municipality of Ommen has a heritage protected villagescape had not yet been included, but regulation which governs the designation, this was adjusted in the revised zoning plan Outlying preservation, supervision and enforcement regarding Area (2014). This revised zoning plan stipulates municipal monuments and archaeological sites in the that a double zoning cultural heritage applies to the municipality. However, within the property of the protected villagescape. In the zoning plan Outlying Colony of Ommerschans, no municipal monuments Area, the zonings are indicated at plot level, for have been designated which are part of the OUV example agricultural construction areas, residential and the attributes designated in that context. These zonings and business zonings. Zonings at area attributes all enjoy national monument status, level are also included. This concerns development and consequently are also protected through the opportunities such as the enlargement of the municipal monument policy. agricultural construction area, new establishment, secondary activities and follow-up activities. In the building aesthetics policy revised zoning plan, the construction and usage The building aesthetics policy of the municipality of possibilities are unchanged. For the area outside Ommen has been set out for the entire municipality the property, the zoning plan Outlying Area and the in the Building Aesthetics Plan Ommen and revised zoning plan include the function agricultural Surroundings (2010). For the area of Ommerschans, with building plots (this applies to the agricultural area-specific building aesthetics criteria have been development area), some specific residential zonings specified. These do not conflict with the core values and agricultural uncultivated. If an initiator intends of the OUV, but should be better aligned with and to build outside the building plots, this will always tightened in relation to the OUV. have to be fully customised, with assessment of spatial quality, and in the property assessment of cultural heritage values of the protected villagescape. This 8.3.5 MUNICIPALITY OF means that further requirements can be imposed on HARDENBERG the development and/or the layout of the plot. The roads and waterways located around the property of the Colony of Ommerschans outside the protected structural vision villagescape are functionally zoned, and are all owned The municipality of Hardenberg has no structural by the municipalities (roads and roadsides) or the vision, although in 2013 a future vision 2012–2023 was water board (waterways). A licensing obligation adopted for the municipality entitled: “Hardenberg applies to the filling up of ditches or the felling of firmly approaches the future” (Hardenberg trees. This also ensures protection of the landscape stapt stevig op the toekomst af ). In respect of structure and characteristics of the surrounding area, Ommerschans and surroundings, this vision provides and in particular the orthogonal line structure within for a continuation of the policy specified in the this area. The emphasis in the outlying area on the earlier Vision Memorandum 2006 and laid down in agricultural developmental perspective fits in well the zoning plan Outlying Area, with the emphasis on with the character of the Colonies of Benevolence and the agricultural function in the outlying area. This the nomination as World Heritage site. function is basically in line with the character of the Section Colony iv, 8 Ommerschans 205 zonings at area level included in this included level zonings at area based on the landscape zoning plan are in the Landscape identities as laid down and Westhuizingerveld Map Identity Map The Landscape Identity surroundings. of guidelines for the restoration provides of new developments or the integration agricultural characteristics: in the area – closed; peat bog cultivation with values – open heath landscape; residential the property For landscape. cultivation the of Ommerschans and surroundings, is partially zoning plan Outlying Area Memorandum based on the 2006 Vision Vision and the Development Outlying Area and surroundings; Westhuizingerveld prior dating from development residential to the ambition to nominate Ommerschans the Consequently, site. Heritage as World and is to be considered plan is irreversible The houses will be realised as a given. The at the time of nomination in 2018. comprises the protected planning area villagescape south of the Boslaan. The villagescape Value-protected zoning double grounds The plan. the of part this to applies also are in this part of the planning area restoration zoned for the preservation, heritage of the cultural and expansion the As was in the area. and spatial values this areas, residential case with previous integrity and affects the area residential authenticity of the area. (2012): This is a plan for V (2012): Sluis plan Zoning heritage policy heritage — — The municipality of Hardenberg has a monument has a monument The municipality of Hardenberg preservation, designation, the governs which regulation municipal regarding supervision and enforcement within the However, monuments in the municipality. no municipal Ommerschans, of of the Colony property part of been designated which are monuments have the OUV and the attributes designated in that context. national monument status. These attributes all enjoy northern fringes of the property World World northern fringes of the property villagescape, site/protected Heritage in the vicinity of and for developments core especially site, Heritage the World the of the property In respect Balkbrug. zoning plan comprises a double zoning The grounds villagescape. Value-protected to which this double zoning applies are restoration also zoned for the preservation, heritage and of the cultural and expansion The plan anchors in the area. spatial values the designated cultural and protects this through in Balkbrug heritage values rules double zoning and the protective for individual zonings. in the regulations to the These offer sufficient protection of the nomination of OUV in the context site; Heritage the World The zoning plan comprises a double zoning villagescape with regard Value-protected to which this The grounds to the property. also zoned for double zoning applies are expansion and restoration preservation, the heritage and spatial values of the cultural concerning The decree in the area. villagescape is designation as protected Regarding included in the plan as an annex. the property, the surrounding the area zoning plans zoning plans (2013–2014): (2013–2014): Hardenberg plan Outlying Area Zoning Relevant for the Balkbrug (2013): plan Relevant Zoning — — — — Colonies of Benevolence and the heritage nomination. Colonies of Benevolence up-scaling,The vision offers scope for agricultural 5 of modernisation and intensification. Chapter Plan will return this section of the Management up-scaling,to the possible impact of agricultural of Colony modernisation and intensification for the possible remain this will and how Ommerschans, as the OUV, and safeguarding while respecting the nomination. applicable following The prevailing spatial policy for the property of spatial policy for the property The prevailing zoning in three Ommerschans is primarily anchored plans: Colonies of Benevolence

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building aesthetics policy The building aesthetics policy is used in respect of Two documents are relevant for the building environmental permit applications, for example in aesthetics policy of the municipality of Hardenberg: respect of building and demolition, or modifications of prevailing spatial plans. —— Building Aesthetics Policy Document Hardenberg: “Hardenberg Forever Beautiful“ (Hardenberg Voor Altijd Mooi) 8.3.6 WATER AUTHORITY: (2002). In this document, the building WATER BOARD aesthetics policy for the outlying area is VECHTSTROMEN adopted. The building aesthetics criteria for the outlying area of Hardenberg are Water management in the area of Ommerschans is in line with the core values of the OUV subject to the regime of two recently created water and the cultural heritage qualities of boards: the water board Drents Overijsselse Delta Ommerschans are recognised. Although (DODelta) and the water board Vechtstromen. The the document predates the designation as property of Ommerschans is subject to the regime of protected villagescape, it anticipates this the latter. Part of the Water Management Plan 2010 – designation; 2015 was drawn up jointly by the precursors of both —— Building Aesthetics Policy Document these water boards. Hardenberg “Vision of Architectural Guidelines” (Visie op Beeldkwaliteit) The water board has indicated that in future it intends (2011). In this Building Aesthetics Policy to deal in a structured and proactive way with the Document, the building aesthetics policy water heritage, as inventoried and collected in the for the cores, including Balkbrug, is Water Heritage Atlas of the Eastern Netherlands in adopted. The strictest building regulations respect of the larger management area Rijn-Oost apply to the part of Balkbrug included in (Rhine–East). the protected villagescape i.e. the property of the Colony of Ommerschans. This The plans of both water boards do not include entails intensive planning supervision activities or projects which affect the OUV of the and assessment of environmental permit World Heritage site Colonies of Benevolence to be applications by the Monuments Committee nominated. No activities or projects are planned in the and against building aesthetics criteria. property or its immediate vicinity. With the exception of the historic The main waterways in the property and approach road Coevorderweg/Zwolseweg, adjacent to the property are protected through the to which building aesthetics level 1 applies, regulations (Keur en Legger) of the water board. The the remainder of the core Balkbrug smaller waterways are not fully protected and the is exempt from building aesthetics possibility exists that smaller (sub) ditches will be regulations. Spatial quality control there is filled in. However, in practical terms this risk is only based on the zoning plan. theoretical, since it is not in the interest of the primary user (agriculture) to fill in the ditches and as a result impair the drainage of the area. Section Colony iv, 8 Ommerschans 207 Any interventions in accordance with the with in accordance interventions Any management plan of the Forestry Commission in Commission management plan of the Forestry have of canals and ditches of the fortress the system been and will be implemented been planned and have This board. in close consultation with the water digging up again of and partly concerns the dredging (filled in) canals and ditches. Colonies of Benevolence

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8.4 Organisation

8.4.1 ADMINISTRATION OFFICE The BOH is charged with the operational OMMEN-HARDENBERG AS management regarding the property and (initiating) COLONY MANAGER the realisation of the management measures required. The municipalities of Ommen and Hardenberg have For Colony IV: Ommerschans, the municipalities incorporated their entire administrative support in the of Ommen and Hardenberg jointly take the implementing organisation of the BOH. The BOH has administrative responsibility as colony manager. The also secured a mutual coordinating structure between municipalities of Ommen and Hardenberg are both both municipalities in respect of the management represented in the steering group at portfolio holder approach and the implementation of the management level. The municipalities of Ommen and Hardenberg measures. In the nomination phase, this office will have mutually agreed to work together in the context perform the supporting activities on behalf of both of the nomination and to continue this approach municipalities in the context of the nomination of the also after the nomination. If necessary and relevant, Colony of Ommerschans as part of the World Heritage administrative consultations will be held. In practice, site nomination Colonies of Benevolence, as well as both municipal councils will continue to operate in a issuing advice to both municipal councils. In addition, well coordinated and harmonised manner in respect the BOH is charged on behalf of both municipalities of this file. with the development of visions and plans, assessment, licensing, supervision and enforcement, The support of both administrations will be and the implementation of regulations in the coordinated by the Administration Office Ommen- protected villagescape, being the property submitted Hardenberg BOH), being the joint implementing for nomination, and its surroundings. At present organisation of both municipalities. and also after the nomination, the BOH will cluster, coordinate and mutually harmonise the activities in the context of the nomination. Within the BOH, a staff Section Colony iv, 8 Ommerschans 209 FEEDBACK GROUP GROUP FEEDBACK OMMERSCHANS 8.4.3 The following parties are represented in the feedback represented parties are The following & Horticultural Agricultural Ommerschans: group Hardenberg, section North, (LTO) Organisation (LTO) Organisation & Horticultural Agricultural Balkbrug section Ommen, Local Interests North, Local Interests (Plaatselijk Belang Balkbrug) and Belang Vinkenbuurt) (Plaatselijk Vinkenbuurt These five Association Ommerschans. the Historical a common position regarding reached parties have Heritage the nomination of Ommerschans as World The municipalities of Ommen and Hardenberg site. unanimously adopted this position in the context have with this position, of the nomination. In accordance the five signed by in a covenant which is laid down and on the basis of a number of conditions, parties, of the attractiveness it will be possible to preserve will serve status Heritage while the World the area, for the benefit of the community the area to upgrade to themselves The parties commit as a whole. on the basis of the ambitions Ommerschans, reinforce is that the of the agreement of each of them. Part consultations as feedback regular parties have of Ommerschans and the for the development group Commission The Forestry of the values. protection Ommerschans Participation and the Foundation not but are also participate in the feedback group, Commission The Forestry signatories of the covenant. is not in a position to participate because as a State whereas it does not conduct local policy, organisation not sign because it is an executive did the Foundation which did sign body of Association Ommerschans, the nomination following Furthermore, the covenant. in the context of the World Heritage site through (one site through Heritage of the World in the context of and consequently also secure ) the municipality(ies) group. in the steering interests the input of provincial intends to participate in of Overijssel The province the continued to ensure and the implementation costs in provincial status Heritage impact of the World policies after 2018. PROVINCE OF OVERIJSSEL PROVINCE accordance with the Management Plan; with the Management accordance with and interaction involvement including citizen the stakeholders, participation; and money) for the knowledge implementation of management measures; that might of the effects of developments and adopting appropriate affect the OUV, measures; and calamities; the purpose of monitoring and reporting the countries to UNESCO; by communication, education, knowledge information, and exchange), (research and marketing. and promotion 8.4.2 Ensuring harmonisation, coordination, Ensuring harmonisation, coordination, resources Ensuring sufficient (people, Ensuring the timely detection and identification to deal with risks for and able Being prepared of information for Ensuring adequate provision site through Heritage the World Propagating Long-term preservation and protection in and protection preservation Long-term — — — — — — — — — — — — — — After the World Heritage status has been obtained, status Heritage After the World manager and the colony will provide the BOH of the Colony For if required. replacement manager controls this colony Ommerschans, and ensures: member is appointed as activator and project manager and project member is appointed as activator for the nomination phase. The province of Overijssel joined in with the of Overijssel The province the and has expressed nomination at the end of 2015, intends to The province wish to become a partner. Plan the implementation of the Management ensure In addition, the BOH ensures an adequate ensures In addition, the BOH organisation programme contribution to the central that by established groups and to the working This will be facilitated by organisation. programme manager. the colony Colonies of Benevolence

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a representative of Veldzicht will be invited to the 8.4.5 FORESTRY COMMISSION meetings. On behalf of both municipalities, the BOH AND FOUNDATION is responsible for the secretariat, the invitations and PARTICIPATION the agenda. OMMERSCHANS

On 18 October 2007, the Forestry Commission started 8.4.4 WORKSHOP OVERIJSSEL / a participation process with local residents and HET OVERSTICHT other stakeholders, aimed at the management and development of Ommerschans and surroundings. On Het Oversticht was founded in 1925 to encourage the evening in question there was great enthusiasm, the development of spatial quality and to preserve and two participation working groups were spatial heritage. Het Oversticht supports both established: the working group water & nature and municipalities in different areas. It also assumes the working group culture & cemetery, overseen by a the role of Committee for Building Aesthetics and steering group in which the Forestry Commission, the Heritage for both municipalities, and provides Association Ommerschans and both working groups the regional archaeologist. The Support Centre were represented. The Forestry Commission called Cultural Heritage (Steunpunt Cultureel Erfgoed) on the steering group to: “Start a process of resident is part of Het Oversticht and of a national network participation in respect of Ommerschans, in which of support centres. Through this network, support local residents are given the opportunity to provide is provided to municipalities, a platform is offered input towards the development and the management for coordination between governing authorities and of the area. Use the creativity of the citizens involved parties, and knowledge and expertise on the heritage when making and implementing plans. Utilise the are encouraged. commitment of citizens for the representation and the management of the area. Ensure continuity, now Het Oversticht is one of the partners in the Workshop and in the future. Identify organisations, experts and Overijssel (Atelier Overijssel), which can be deployed funds which can contribute to the development and for the realisation of environmental quality. In the management of Ommerschans.” In order to realise the period 2014–2015, on behalf of the municipal the vision as formulated, the Foundation Participation executive boards of Ommen and Hardenberg, Ommerschans (Stichting Participatie Ommerschans) Workshop Overijssel organised three workshops was established. As the owner, the Forestry on the values of the area with the feedback group Commission will remain explicitly involved in the Ommerschans and stakeholders from the area. In the process. The Foundation Participation Ommerschans workshops the values of the territory of Ommerschans is the owner of the vision and controls the formulation within the context of the landscape of this Colony and materialisation of the sub-projects. Depending have been established by the area partners, residents on the sub-projects, these can be implemented and users, based on a broad approach. Attention was under the responsibility of third parties (the Forestry given to physical and spatial, economic and socio- Commission, municipalities or water board). The cultural values in the territory, which constituted the Foundation guarantees that the final product will basis for a joint and shared valuation of Ommerschans be in line with the vision formulated by residents and surroundings. and stakeholders. The Foundation also ensures that the enthusiastic involvement of the residents will be maintained in the future, in order to assist in the realisation of smaller projects, but also to participate in the management and in the story to be propagated. Section Colony iv, 8

Ommerschans 211 OWNERS 8.4.8 In and around Ommerschans, there are a large a large are there Ommerschans, In and around premises buildings, of the owners number of private or all to a greater are These owners and grounds. in the feedback group represented lesser extent informed are owners these addition, In Ommerschans. developments and any of the area about the status newspapers local channels like regular through there and websites. and the accessibility of the area, carries out research, out research, carries and the accessibility of the area, the and propagates educational programmes organises The Association participates in the area. of the values in the development and is involved feedback group with the together of the vision Ommerschans, Ommerschans and the Participation Foundation The Association is one of the Commission. Forestry Colonies of initiators and partners of the project and through stories, five One history, Benevolence: and organisation in the is involved this project Ommerschans in (farm) design of the visitors’ centre the the municipalities, from a grant With 4. Hoeve on Association has issued an educational publication to an which is linked the subject of Ommerschans, for primary schools. educational programme ASSOCIATION ASSOCIATION OMMERSCHANS VELDZICHT 8.4.7 8.4.6 Association Ommerschans was established at the end established Association Ommerschans was the attractive of 2001 with the ambition to preserve for the of Ommerschans and surroundings area but also to maintain the quality of life and future, the information about Ommerschans to propagate is The purpose of the Association on a wider scale. aspects and the landscape and improve to preserve also heritage elements of Ommerschans, cultural and educational taking into account the informative association which is a historical It of the area. values with the municipalities, maintains a close relationship an Oversticht, Commission and Het the Forestry which contributes to the maintenance organisation These days, the Forensic Psychiatric Centre (FPC) Centre Psychiatric the Forensic These days, location. on the Veldzicht is established Veldzicht for the psychiatry, for transcultural is a centre It problems. with psychiatric foreigners of treatment for offenders placed of an institution The conversion (TBS clinic) into an under a court hospital order The new use as concluded early in 2016. FPC was which of Veldzicht, the closing down FPC prevented cutbacks. of government 2013 as a result in threatened is of the organisation This ongoing development The new included in the management plan Veldzicht. and the function also led to changes in the buildings further The consequences of the of the site. layout in area, for the quality of the Colony development of the buildings and the appearance particular where In case of unclear. concerned, is as yet are Veldzicht of the site and the buildings, in respect developments a functional the fences which are such as for example ensures Veldzicht necessity for penal institutions, like measures by integration qualitative proper landscape architects. engaging nationally recognised such plans In addition, the municipality will have of building in respect Oversticht Het assessed by and spatial quality. aesthetics Colonies of Benevolence

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8.5 Dealing with trends and developments

8.5.1 COLLECTIVE The Colonies are aware of the fact that the RESPONSIBILITY FOR collectiveness of the seven Colonies is vital to properly ADEQUATE MANAGEMENT present this history, and the parties are willing to jointly invest in this now and in the future, in order to preserve this unique landscape, which marks a special 8.5.1.1 Common and supported aspect of the history of the Netherlands and Belgium, ambition also for generations to come. The long-term strategy for the management of the seven Colonies is focused The Colonies of Benevolence attach great importance on the preservation and the reinforcement of the to the collective and supported management of OUV. The development philosophy calls for a strategy the “cultural landscape”. From the start of the in which the consistency of the cultural heritage of nomination, great effort was put into reaching the territories is a guiding principle and serves as a consensus on the approach and the involvement of source of inspiration for the sustainable development local and regional partners as well as the people who of these territories. With this in mind, an inspirational live, work, farm and/or recreate in the landscape, document like ‘On course for the Colony Landscape’ and this will be continued after the recognition. (Koers op Kolonielandschap) was drawn up in the The ambition is to also propagate the story about early stages of the nomination process. On the basis of the history from the origins of the Colonies, and the early identification, future developments and trends way in which they have developed, and to make this will insofar as possible be translated into a uniform known and accessible to a wide audience. approach, taking into account the differences between the Colonies and the instruments of both countries. Section Colony iv, 8

Ommerschans 213 influence. The four visitors’ centres The four visitors’ centres influence. and protection protection; or not through delegation) ensure adequate delegation) ensure or not through and group in the steering representation office; input in the programme Office the Administration province, appoint one will Ommen-Hardenberg manager; colony in ensuring the design and operation area of the visitors’ centre. 8.5.1.3 Government management Government 8.5.1.3 The system of spatial planning for planological The system heritage policy; of the (immovable) The system Management measures Management measures: New (whether Both municipalities and the province On behalf of both municipalities and the The municipalities facilitate the partners in the — — — — — — — — — — The OUV of the Colonies of Benevolence is safeguarded is Benevolence of Colonies the of TheOUV with laws national policies, through in the Netherlands systems: in two laid down and regulations based on one joint concept are developed partly developed based on one joint concept are In the Dutch Colonies initiatives. private through place on takes consultation with feedback groups made about are and agreements basis, a structural the of commitment to the protection each party’s the implementation of management measures, OUV, and the contribution to subjects such as education information, and the management of the property. users owners, involve The Colonies of Benevolence and implementation in the development and scientists of the of the site management and the safeguarding The management provides quality of the heritage. of the input of the local continuity in respect expertise and the input of the specific environment of the the management and preservation regarding quality of the heritage. and also for managing the effects that may arise from arise from and also for managing the effects that may of ​​ area a larger based on collectiveness based on collectiveness realisation that the Colonies collectively the Colonies collectively that realisation of tell and visualise the whole story the parties in each Colony, the history, and group the steering by coordinated to commit themselves the site manager, of the landscape management the proper and to buildings, and the representative necessary and where maintain, protect parts of these; rehabilitate from experts and trends, to developments will meet at least the partner organisations the possibilities explore to once a year themes for Possible in this respect. of the agenda could be the installation facilities and building in energy sustainable style. historicising 8.5.1.2 Powerful organisation organisation Powerful 8.5.1.2 Management measures Management measures: New and the On the basis of the common interest a uniform approach the aim of achieving With — — — — The Colonies of Benevolence exercise joint exercise The Colonies of Benevolence of the management of and control coordination and of Drenthe The province Colonies. the seven behalf of the Province Landschap (on Kempens Administratively, site holder. act as of Antwerp) has been set up under which the group a steering Committee for Advisory An site holder operates. Quality can issue advice Education and Science, manager. as to the colony to the site holder as well have group in the steering The parties represented for the site resources mobilised financial and human the proper management. The site holder ensures site as a whole. Heritage management of the World The site holder initiates the activities that serve the quality of the World to maintain and improve the communication, and also facilitates site, Heritage The monitoring and periodic reporting. coordination, for the preservation responsible managers are colony the buffer zone, and management of the property, Colonies of Benevolence

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—— Besides, the nature values are additionally Management measures protected through European legislation New measures: such as Natura 2000. —— The State considers offering the Colonies of Benevolence protection on the basis In the Netherlands, legislation for spatial planning and of the instructional provision “world heritage is currently being simplified and made more heritage” in the Environment & Planning integral. The new Heritage Act (formerly Monuments Act. In consultation with the provinces, and Historic Buildings Act and other legislation) municipalities and stakeholders involved, entered into force on 1 July 2016. As far as the the State will establish further details of immovable heritage is concerned this Act focuses on the instructional provision. The objective the preservation, the protection and the restoration of of this exercise is to ensure consistency in the built or landscaped objects (national monuments) respect of the impact of policies in all the and archaeological monuments. Until 2019, the spatial provinces and municipalities; protection of the heritage values in the Netherlands —— The colony managers and the site manager are will be regulated by the Spatial Planning Act (Wro). charged with the timely identification of The new Environment & Planning Act, which will developments with a potential impact on in future regulate the spatial protection of heritage the OUV; values, will enter into force in 2019. In addition to —— The colony manager, through the Administration the Heritage Act and the Environment & Planning Office Ommen-Hardenberg, ensures proper Act, legislation on the subject of nature areas will input from experts at the annual working also change as per 1 January 2017. From that date, the meeting of experts focused on the timely new Nature Conservation Act will replace the current identification of developments and trends, Nature Conservation Act, the Flora and Fauna Act and and the establishment of uniform measures the Forestry Act, and will eventually be incorporated for the protection of the OUV in the light of in the Environment & Planning Act. This Act will also such developments and trends; contribute to the preservation of the nature values —— The Advisory Committee for Science, Education related to the OUV. and Quality will be consulted on These legislative changes will lead to changes developments and trends with a potential in the future instruments to be deployed, which in impact on the OUV, and where necessary principle will be of a more integrated and cumulated further investigation will be initiated character. In this way, the protection of heritage (built (HIA). monuments, archaeology, areas), nature and landscape and its incorporation in provincial and municipal environmental visions, environmental plans and 8.5.1.4 Protection nature values environmental permits in the Netherlands is and will be safeguarded, as well as the harmonisation with the In the Dutch Colonies, parts of the property and water management plans of the water boards. the buffer zone are covered by the Dutch National In case of unexpected large-scale developments Ecological Network, which provides protection of that might affect the OUV of the site, a Heritage the nature values of these areas. This also applies to Impact Assessment will be carried out. The outcomes Ommerschans, as a result of which this Colony is part of the HIA will be taken into account in decision- of a network of nature areas. In view of the nature making processes regarding the location and the values, extensive ecological research has been carried implementation of the development. out for Ommerschans, in which context specific Section Colony iv, 8

Ommerschans 215 STATE OF CONSERVATION STATE improving the visibility and perceptibility the visibility and perceptibility improving of of the landscape and building structures including aspects from the former fortress, the period of the Colony. 8.5.2 management and Preservation 8.5.2.1 and villagescape protected monuments national designation The status of protected villagescape and/ of protected The status In the context of the nomination, the property of the nomination, the property In the context fully identical of Ommerschans is of the Colony villagescape to the boundaries of the protected values the core Because of this choice, Ommerschans. adequately are the property of the OUV as regards the basis of the designation as protected on protected important attributes in respect The most villagescape. because additionally protected of buildings are designated as national monument. All the they are some of in fairly good condition. For buildings are plans for adaptive future are these buildings there and surroundings, to the fortress regard With re-use. on the basis of a vision document is in progress work and landscape heritage values the cultural to reinforce the and to improve and recognisability, structure perceptibility. in the four or national monument is anchored policy of zoning plans and the building aesthetics including a double zoning by both municipalities, This means in these plans. heritage values cultural be will always in the property that developments and heritage values, the cultural assessed against will apply to building regulations that the strictest when assessing environmental such developments or demolition. The OUV and permits for construction on the basis of the in principle protected attributes are villagescape and national designations as protected has also villagescape status monument. The protected particularly had its influence on the zoning plans and policy of both municipalities. the building aesthetics nature and buildings nature archaeological research will be exhibited in will be exhibited research archaeological the coming years. Commission coordinate The Forestry and the to the restoration the approach management and maintenance of canals Ommerschans; and ditches around which consolidation of this rehabilitation, has been implemented in collaboration Participation with the Foundation In Ommerschans Ommerschans. been made in have significant investments 8.5.1.5 Rehabilitation of landscape, of landscape, Rehabilitation 8.5.1.5 Management measures Management measures: New the After categorisation, the finds from of existing policy: Continuation and board In close consultation, the water the Commission ensures The Forestry — — — — — — attention was paid to nature values from the period of from values paid to nature attention was the Society of Benevolence. From the beginning of the 21st century, both century, of the 21st the beginning From made large-scale have Belgium and the Netherlands of and rehabilitation in the preservation investments of the landscape and the buildings in the structure vision. In doing so, based on a long-term the Colonies, and exploitation sustainable on placed is focus specific heritage to the cultural local businesses appropriate In the Dutch Colonies the essence of the territories. of unoccupied re-use emphasis is on the adaptive to restoration. proceeding before premises should be in line with the re-use The adaptive of the Colonies and the history landscape structures housing, care, innovation, (agriculture/agricultural In Ommerschans, education, detention, recreation). been made in improving have significant investments of the landscape and the visibility and perceptibility including of the former fortress, building structures also through of the Colony, the days aspects from research. archaeological Colonies of Benevolence

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The criteria in respect of the OUV and —— Renovating ramparts on the east side of the attributes have been further detailed in the context fortress; of the nomination as World Heritage site, and are —— Refurbishing bastion near the northern entrance. therefore not worded in exactly the same way in the protected villagescape and the plans and other policy Important interventions regarding the frameworks of both municipalities. This also applies Colony period are: to a lesser extent to the plans of the water board, the —— Visualising the foundation of the beggars’ Forestry Commission and other factions in the area. building and the auxiliary buildings from Until now, the province has not explicitly mentioned the beggars period; Ommerschans in the provincial plans, and the area is —— Placing morgue and entrance gate cemetery; on the whole protected on the basis of more general —— Restoring path structure cemetery; policy principles regarding spatial quality. —— Restoring fortress moat on the north side of the cemetery; vision foundation participation —— Visualising beggars’ graves and restoring grave ommerschans Mol family; For sub-areas within the protected villagescape, —— Restoring ice house; separate visions, management and development plans —— Restoring oak avenues. have been drawn up focused on the preservation, protection and where possible the reinforcement of The measures will have been finalised before the visibility and perceptibility of the heritage and the 2018, and from then on will be part of the regular existing values. The most important of these is the management and maintenance plan of the Forestry vision and the management and maintenance plan for Commission for the territory of Ommerschans. Ommerschans and surroundings of the Foundation Participation Ommerschans, drawn up and to be other management implemented in collaboration with the Forestry and maintenance plans Commission, the municipality and the water board. Veldzicht too has its own management and mainte­ In the vision and the work to be carried out following nance plan, and this also applies to the municipalities from it, three time layers can be distinguished, in respect of the management and maintenance including the time of the Colony. of public space, and to the water board for the The Forestry Commission, in collaboration with comprehensive management of the water system. the Foundation, is carrying out works to reinforce the structure and recognisability of the area of support in the area Ommerschans (fortress and immediate vicinity) by There is broad support for obtaining World carrying out various landscape and soil disturbing Heritage status for the area designated as protected interventions regarding the fortification period as villagescape, and for the preservation of the values well as the Colony period, but also by taking measures in the surrounding area, where agriculture and its aimed at the improvement of road safety in the area. ongoing development are pre-eminent. This support is laid down in a covenant concluded between both Important interventions regarding the fortification municipalities and the Agricultural and Horticultural period are: Organisation (sections Ommen and Hardenberg), —— Removing vegetation and trees; Local Interests Balkbrug and Vinkenbuurt, and the —— Dredging part of the moat around the ravelin Association Ommerschans. and the fortification moat; —— Dredging part of the filled in fortification moat; Section Colony iv, 8

Ommerschans 217 and management province of Overijssel province 8.5.2.2 Management tasks preservation tasks preservation Management 8.5.2.2 state Meanwhile, the province of Overijssel has indicated of Overijssel the province Meanwhile, that it supports the nomination of the Colonies In the to participate. desires and of Benevolence Memorandum and the Culture Vision Environmental the Society of of Overijssel, of the province and the Colonies of Ommerschans Benevolence mentioned. not explicitly are and Willemsoord This is an omission. In particular the fact that both policy can not named in the cultural Colonies are schemes of grant its consequences in respect have of monuments the restoration re-use, for adaptive Monument and the prioritising of the Foundation the monuments in Ommerschans present, At Watch. In the priority. no provincial enjoy and Willemsoord the province of the nomination, it is vital that context mention to explicitly will endeavour of Overijssel heritage of the Colonies of Benevolence the cultural policy. and cultural environmental in the provincial of to the Colony this also applies Consequently, After the World Heritage status has been obtained, status Heritage After the World designate the Colonies of Benevolence, will the State as such, and of Ommerschans, including the Colony Law on Environmental include the site in the Decree protected (Bor). This is an addition to the existing of villagescape and the protection as protected status This will individual objects as national monuments. site Heritage to facilitate the World the State allow while the the status, in preserving necessary where this should unexpectedly if intervene, can also State that pose of developments event in the be called for, an unacceptable or constitute status to this a threat policy of both The current infringement of the OUV. in, municipalities and the anchoring of this policy spatial plans and heritage instruments, for example, heritage of the cultural adequate protection provide in and to be protected present and landscape values Ommerschans. openness and structure landscape openness and structure landscape villagescape outside the protected For developments outside the property in the outside the property developments For outlying area, the prevailing spatial policy based the prevailing outlying area, important point on the zoning plans is the most in Ommen the outlying areas For of reference. these plans attach respectively, and Hardenberg and the ongoing primary importance to agriculture the agricultural of this function. For development spatial in Ommen, the prevailing area development of the reconstruction policy within the framework up-scaling,offers ample scope for further agricultural also However, modernisation and intensification. apply on the basis of the requirements for this area of the building spatial policy at the level prevailing structure, and components such as the road blocks, are and 2nd level) (1st and waterways roadsides are the waterways functionally zoned. Moreover, en Legger) of the (Keur subject to the regulations function in the outlying The agricultural board. water of the Colonies well with the character fits in area the heritage nomination, and in and of Benevolence zoning plans and combination with the prevailing the policy it safeguards environmental the provincial and the existing area openness of the surrounding too can be which there in the landscape, structure the time of the Society from to the cultivation linked of Benevolence. On the north side of the protected villagescape and On the north side of the protected the new villagescape, partly within the protected South of Sluis V is being realised. area residential the encompasses the Boslaan the planning area Value- The double zoning villagescape. protected applies to this part of the plan. villagescape protected in this part of the grounds The zoning in respect the preservation, incorporates of the planning area of the cultural and the expansion restoration concerns It in the area. heritage and spatial values dating from development a plan for residential to nominate Ommerschans as the ambition before and the The plan is irreversible site. Heritage World in 2018. realised been to have expected houses are and partial for the preservation The plan provides structures. and avenue of some road reinforcement Colonies of Benevolence

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Ommerschans in the municipalities of Ommen and surrounding agricultural area is adequately protected Hardenberg. on the basis of the prevailing zoning plans and the agricultural function. Also the existing orthogonal municipalities of ommen structure of roads, ditches, and avenues in parts of and hardenberg the outlying area is specifically zoned in the zoning Because the prevailing protection in the spatial plan Outlying Area Ommen and in the revised zoning plans and the spatial and heritage instruments is still plan. The prevailing policy specified in the zoning based on the designation as protected villagescape, plans applies to these areas. This prevailing policy both municipalities need to effectuate an update. offers scope for agricultural development, but at the This entails the alignment of the spatial and heritage same time stipulates that new initiatives that do not fit visions, policy memorandums, plans, regulations within the frameworks of the prevailing zoning plan and maps with the formulations and criteria of will be assessed against aspects such as spatial quality the OUV. The aim is to ensure that the OUV, the and the way in which such an initiative is integrated maps concerning the boundaries and the lists of in the existing landscape structure, as laid down in the attributes are properly incorporated in the landscape plans, the GOP (Ommen) and Landscape management tools of both municipalities. This relates Identity Maps (Hardenberg), and should take into to the environmental visions, the heritage and culture account the specific functional zoning of roads and memorandums, the zoning plans and, where relevant, waterways. In all cases, a customised approach is underlying architectural guidelines, architectural called for. visions and maps. It concerns adjustments which in view of the prevailing level of protection need Management measures not be effectuated immediately, but can be realised New measures: when plans, memorandums and maps are revised —— The province of Overijssel and Ommen or updated. At that time it can also be considered and Hardenberg are in consultation whether the current fragmentation as regards the on the question of how the cultural applicability of four different zoning plans and heritage values of Ommerschans can three different heritage memorandums and building be incorporated in the provincial aesthetics policy documents can be overcome through Environmental Vision and the culture the mutual coordination of the wording of plans or by policy of the province in the future. drawing up a plan for the property or the protected Continuation of existing policy: villagescape Ommerschans and surroundings. —— The provincial policy of Overijssel offers a basis As regards the zoning plan Sluis V, the for the protection of the OUV through the integration of this new building location in the principle that spatial developments that landscape can be further improved through mitigating deviate from the environmental vision measures. These can include the construction should entail a reinforcement of the spatial of a green barrier along the Boslaan, to mark the quality on the basis of the Area Features boundaries of the Colony area and to reinforce the Catalogue; historic structure near (farm) Hoeve 8 and the Eerste —— For the protected villagescape a double zoning Schansweg. cultural heritage is included in the zoning In the zoning plans of both municipalities, plans, which is to be brought in line with the focus as regards the outlying area bordering the OUV; the protected villagescape is on agriculture. A —— The openness of the surrounding area and considerable part of this outlying area has the status the orthogonal line structures of roads of agricultural development area. The openness of the and ditches situated within this area, are Section Colony iv, 8

Ommerschans 219 consultation with Veldzicht regarding the regarding consultation with Veldzicht plans re-use adaptive plans, development and the management and maintenance of site and buildings. the zoning of buildings, re-use adaptive requirements plans and building aesthetics for the sufficient opportunities provide to the in relation integration proper villagescape and the OUV. protected housing Management measures Management measures: New structured is intended to establish It of existing policy: Continuation of businesses or In case of new establishment — — — — The most important development has been the important development The most with some Sluis V, area of the residential realisation at will be realised The new construction 85 houses. the for the time of nomination. The plan provides elements of the Colony structural of some extension effectively which have structures), (avenue area of the The matter of integration been realised. not part of the site was Heritage in the World project been impossible, have plan. This would development the ambition to nominate because the plan predates World as UNESCO the Colonies of Benevolence For the medium term, some uncertainty remains the medium term, some uncertainty remains For use of and the future the future regarding to re-use adaptive The recent (10 years). Veldzicht of the closure accommodate the FPC has averted Also in the shorter term, for the moment. Veldzicht re-use the change of function can lead to the adaptive of of certain buildings on the site and in the vicinity to the use of a for example This applies Veldzicht. re- This adaptive situated in the area. farm centrally to be in line with the will have it arises, whenever use, applicable to the OUV and the protected requirements it is important to establish However, villagescape. the regarding consultation with Veldzicht structured plans and the re-use adaptive plans, development in relation management and maintenance of Veldzicht status. Heritage to a World affecting Ommerschans FACTORS AFFECTING AFFECTING FACTORS OMMERSCHANS protected through the prevailing zoning the prevailing through protected plan on the basis of functional zonings; designated as protected objects in the area villagescape and buildings with a (national) permit an environmental monument status, to which specific is required, (Wabo) apply; provisions building aesthetic obligation on the basis of the timber regulation. For demolition and renovation of buildings and demolition and renovation For is subject to a licensing The felling of trees business activities 8.5.3.1 Developments and trends and trends Developments 8.5.3.1 8.5.3 — — — — The most important development here is the adaptive is the adaptive here important development The most to this Intrinsic of detached farm buildings. re-use new forms of business activity can re-use, adaptive the Colony with a possible impact on be developed is also limited there In the vicinity of the area area. of new business for the establishment space available scale of these activities, and The nature activities. to be accommodated in buildings adapted which are to is not expected and new buildings, for re-use limited effects will be very Any affect the OUV. imposing further by and can easily be integrated spatial integration of layout, in the field requirements it concerns business In all cases, and accessibility. to impact (up environmental activities with a lower category 3). environmental In the context of the Management Plan all of the Management In the context identified which now are and trends developments affect the OUV of Ommerschans. may or in the future a brief deemed relevant, or trend development Per the management tasks and and description is provided also dealt with. are to be taken measures Colonies of Benevolence

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Heritage site. As mentioned above, the integration Continuation of existing policy: of this new building location can be improved —— The zoning plan rules out new building locations through additional mitigating measures, such as the in the property or protected villagescape; construction of a green barrier along the Boslaan —— The zoning plan does not provide for the to mark the boundaries of the Colony area and to conversion of the agricultural function to reinforce the historic structure near (farm) Hoeve 8 residential development on the site east and the Eerste Schansweg. of the Eerste Schansweg and south of the In the property of Ommerschans no plans for Boslaan. new construction are anticipated, and such plans can be ruled out on the basis of the prevailing zoning recreation and tourism plans. In the long term, a point for attention might The construction of recreational facilities in the be the development pressures on a site east of the sphere of recreational accommodation is not Eerste Schansweg and south of the Boslaan (grounds anticipated in the area, except perhaps only small- owned by a commercial developer). The municipality scale in the form of a B&B. On a limited scale, some is unwilling to allow residential development, and catering facilities will be established in the area, as consequently is not prepared to cooperate in changing well as a visitors’ centre. These developments are the current agricultural zoning. The current zoning small-scale and appropriate to the capacity of the in the zoning plan is undeveloped agricultural, and a area in terms of recreation and tourism. They will be conversion of the function to residential development subject to the zoning plan on the basis of the double is not provided for. zoning applicable to the protected villagescape, and Part of the core of Balkbrug is exempt from will be liable to the strictest building regulations. This building aesthetics regulations. This concerns also applies if such a development takes place in or the existing residential area of Balkbrug, situated near one of the attributes which also enjoys national outside the protected villagescape. The exemption monument status. implies that on or near the existing buildings, limited In the field of recreation, there is a slight risk of reconstruction and extension is allowed. No direct cluttering of the landscape caused by private owners impact on the OUV is to be expected resulting from adjusting the plots on their sites, placing fences and this. Visitors entering the area via the Balkbrug core installing horse feeders. Such interventions in the will experience such buildings as a regular part of the landscape are difficult to regulate, while they do have core buildings of Balkbrug. In respect of the buildings an impact on the perceptibility of the landscape and within the protected villagescape, however, the could notably affect the ability to experience the strictest building regulations apply. openness of the area. This development is expected to be small-scale and can be partly be regulated through Management measures the environmental permit. New measures: —— To examine if the integration of the new building Management measures location Sluis V can be improved through Continuation of existing policy: additional mitigating measures, like the —— Small-scale expansion and development of construction of a green barrier along the recreational facilities appropriate to Boslaan to mark the boundaries of the the capacity of the area are in principle Colony area and to reinforce the historic possible. Such developments will be structure near Hoeve 8 and the Eerste assessed on the basis of the double zoning Schansweg. and will have to comply with the prevailing strict building regulations. Section Colony iv, 8

Ommerschans 221 lead to demolition / new construction lead to demolition / new construction or including solar other forms of roofing, The effect might be a different panels. landscape;the of experience and appearance significant involving farming, in stock changes in the lighting at the agricultural especially effects are These businesses. few are at night, when there evident and consequently no visitors in the area, on the experience impact is to be expected The lighting in itself does not of the area. affect other aspects of the OUV; a number of these buildings will become vacant. The developments outside the protected outside the protected The developments existing on and around Developments These concern: which can roofing of asbestos The remediation systems of new open stable The emergence Change of function of farm buildings because Changes in the crops on the agricultural plots on the agricultural Changes in the crops — — — — — — with a view to their integration in the frameworks and in the frameworks with a view to their integration the protected of that apply in respect requirements villagescape and, after nomination, the OUV. within the villagescape mainly concern adjustments For building blocks in the outlying area. agricultural the frameworks these buildings blocks and initiatives, zoning plans apply to the entire of the prevailing outlying area. themselves. buildings also present agricultural The developments mentioned above must fit within must mentioned above The developments The impact of of the zoning plans. the frameworks of the lighting, with the exception these changes, in the landscape. seems to be easy to integrate expected. not Significant effects on the OUV are of chance the but plans, zoning the in out ruled not are limited such changes actually occurring is extremely of a theoretical appear to be and the possibility would to changes which lead only crop Moreover, nature. a of the openness of the landscape are a reduction of these kinds Realisation to the OUV. potential threat elephant (arboriculture, changes in the area of crop for biomass) is not a prospect. grass changing agricultural use changing agricultural of up-scaling the trend and In principle, Part of the area originally cultivated by the Society the by originally cultivated of the area Part is designated as agricultural of Benevolence new (LOG). In this LOG area, area development of businesses is in principle possible, establishment to manifest is not expected but such a development The LOG is emphatically earmarked itself in the area. for the up-scaling scope is offered as a location where building blocks in The and modernising of agriculture. the LOG offer up to 3 ha of space for the construction of the development barns, larger and of more farming and the building of silos stock intensive of crop high. The construction of 8 to 10 metres although supporting facilities is also allowed, the zoning supplied by frameworks by restricted landscape plan. The openness of the surrounding roadsides such as roads, and landscape structures the prevailing through protected are and waterways policy on the basis of the zoning plan, the regulations and the interests board water en Legger) of the (Keur water proper for example, of the farmers as regards, might take management. The fact that developments place on the building blocks with some impact on to the of the landscape is inherent the perception Also in the area. LOG function of the surrounding which is not designated outlying area surrounding of in the sphere developments agricultural as LOG, too such Here up-scaling a role. play and modernising on possible and will be regulated are developments spatial plans. the basis of the prevailing of the modernising also applies to the development villagescape. businesses situated within the protected their the option of broadening these businesses, For of income ancillary sources new through operations within the Developments is particularly relevant. villagescape will be specifically assessed protected In the area of the protected villagescape and the the protected of In the area successfully was plot swap a voluntary adjacent area, is the area As a result, concluded at the end of 2013. with the wishes of the in accordance parcelled now need for further no signs of any are farmers and there reparcelling. Colonies of Benevolence

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Management measures Developments in the utilities Continuation of existing policy: At a fair distance from Ommerschans, the —— Developments in agriculture and the LOG development of the wind farm Dedemsvaart Zuid must fit within the frameworks of the (Driehoek) is planned. The wind turbines to be placed prevailing zoning plans. The impact of here will have a shaft height of 100 metres and a tip the changes to be expected, with the height of 150 metres. Consequently, they can be seen exception of lighting, would seem to be from a great distance. The masts situated closest easy to integrate in the landscape; to the area are about 4 kilometres away. The masts —— In respect of the part of the LOG situated in the are expected to be visible at a considerable distance protected villagescape, the double zoning from some locations in the Colony area. In the cultural heritage applies. environmental impact report Veenpark Veenwieken, an assessment was carried out of the impact on the infrastructure and traffic landscape and the cultural heritage. The report states Two types of infrastructure can be distinguished. On that there is an impact on the landscape, but that it the one hand the transport infrastructure of roads, is limited on the basis of mitigating measures and cycling routes and walking paths, and on the other the variant opted for, with a ridge height below the hand the infrastructure of numerous utilities such as maximum height of 135 metres (eventually a shaft telephone facilities, data and energy supply. Water will height of 100 metres was opted for). As regards the be dealt with separately in the section comprehensive cultural heritage impact, it is stated that there is no water management. such impact because within quite some distance of the planning area no protected monuments or protected Transport infrastructure villagescapes are situated. At the time of nomination, The structure of the existing transport infrastructure the plans for the wind farm will be at the stage of in the area is specifically zoned. Therefore, no changes realisation and should therefore be considered as a in the structure of the roads is anticipated, although it given. Part of the environmental impact report was increasingly occurs that the road infrastructure in the also an assessment of the visual impact of the turbines area is too narrow for the agricultural vehicles which in the landscape. It is evident that the turbines as are becoming larger as a result of agricultural up- a cluster will be visible from a great distance, but a scaling, including contractor operations. This causes negative impact on the perception of the area is not damage to roadsides, and frictions occur between expected (measurement point in this respect is the N agricultural and other forms of traffic on the subject of road located between the planning area for the wind road safety. Therefore, the only limitation in the road turbines and the Colony area). Any visibility from the infrastructure is imposed by the width of the road. A Colony area is also limited by the landscape structures component of the vision Ommerschans was the desire of the landscape in between (bushes, rows of trees, to deal with the road safety of the Balkerweg. and the N road). On the basis of the environmental In the vicinity of Ommerschans, interventions are impact report, the wind farm situated at a distance of being implemented on the N377, in conjunction with the more than 4 kilometres will have no direct impact on N340. This concerns the adaptation of the intersection the OUV. at Balkbrug and the construction of a tunnel. This de- velopment does not affect the OUV of the Colony area. In the area of Ommerschans itself, multiple small- After its realisation, the development will lead to a re- scale developments will manifest themselves duction of cut-through driving on the north side of the around the realisation of broadband connections, protected villagescape, but this effect will be reduced by management and maintenance of the sewerage the traffic to and from the new residential area Sluis V. system and mobile telephony and data (construction Section Colony iv, 8

Ommerschans 223 archaeological research has taken place, place, has taken research archaeological of the finds will Part including excavations. to in the new visitors’ centre be exhibited be established. nature and landscape nature Management measures Management of existing policy: Continuation Ommerschans extensive In and around — — Part of the colony area is included in the Dutch area of the colony Part province (EHS) in the Ecological Network National This is an opportunity but can also of Overijssel. the The choice and to the OUV. a threat constitute in line with the design boundaries of this EHS were of the Part of the area. and the original structure the EHS in the but meanwhile is laid out, structure connecting zone. robust no longer qualifies as a area laid out will be preserved, already The part which was the As regards but the EHS will not be extended. stagnated no significant effects of the now OUV, notably expected, of the EHS are development had been aligned with because this development landscape of the the original design and structure period). (fortification period and Colony Het Oversticht. There is an explicit focus on is an explicit There Oversticht. Het but this should be in Ommerschans, archaeology in policies. firmly anchored better and more even in which finds as to the way also remain Questions Ommerschans can be made unearthed in and around might be accessible to the public. Some of the finds Information panels in the visitors’ centre. exhibited locations on special and old foundations and paving originally to visualise what was serve in the fortress in the remain still which some remnants and of there in the soil the soil. When visualising the remnants because in Ommerschans phasing is also relevant, which far excavated been finds have archaeological The fortress Society of Benevolence. the precede not are period, the beggars period and Veldzicht but visualising the one phase can incompatible, as The OUV will serve the other phase. overshadow in this an important criterion when making choices respect. take place on how solar panels can be place on how take in or near buildings in the incorporated area. Colony the local road extend and/or adjust network; to will lead in conjunction with the N340, on the traffic in cut-through a reduction villagescape; north side of the protected the impact on cultural Veenwieken, Farm heritage and landscape is assessed, and it is indicated that this impact will be limited for on the basis of mitigating measures, of turbines the construction by example the maximum with a shaft height below which was shaft height of 135 metres assessed as a variant; should and the landscape and spatially, core, the Balkbrug be situated in preferably villagescape. outside the protected heritage and archaeology heritage Management measures Management measures: New Consultation with the other Colonies will of existing policy: Continuation plans to further no The municipalities have of the N377, the reconstruction After realisation, Wind Impact Report In the Environmental in will be integrated for telephony Masts — — — — — — — — — — of masts). The masts in particular, but also the boxes but also the boxes in particular, The masts of masts). to be will have network, in support of the broadband The in the landscape and spatially. integrated properly is or on the ground on roofs of solar panels installation also a trend. Extensive archaeological research has been conducted research archaeological Extensive research In addition, field of Ommerschans. in respect carried out the course of work place in has taken in connection with the vision of the development Participation Ommerschans of the Foundation the is to restore of this work Part Ommerschans. sections of the of lost visibility and perceptibility place This takes fortification and the beggars’ Colony. of archaeologist in consultation with the regional Colonies of Benevolence

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Due to the loss of planting, including the avenue water board can nevertheless be improved and can be planting or uprooted parts of the production forest, included in the Water Management Plan of the water a different degree of visual quality may temporarily board. occur in part of the area. On the basis of the timber regulations, a replanting obligation applies to avenue Management measures planting and woodlands in the area. New measures: The replanting of the original structures offers —— The municipalities will press the water board to opportunities and is part of the action plan and the include the cultural heritage value of the 24 projects for Ommerschans and Surroundings of water structure of the Colony landscape in the Foundation Participation Ommerschans. This the Water Management Plan. includes the restoration of the fortress, following Continuation of existing policy: which the realisation of the projects for the fortress —— The existing hydrological infrastructure is and surroundings will be included in the regular protected via specific zonings (1st and 2nd management and maintenance plan of the Forestry level waterways) through the regulations Commission. In principle this has been established, (Keur en Legger) of the water board; but as a result of cutbacks some pressure on —— The water board manages the waterways in management and maintenance might occur. accordance with the provisions in the management plan (Keur en Legger) of the Management measures board. Continuation of existing policy: —— On the basis of the timber regulations, a replanting obligation applies to the avenue 8.5.3.2 Climate change and planting and woodlands; environmental impact —— The replanting of the original structures is part of the action plan for Ommerschans At local/regional level, climate change is barely and Surroundings of the Foundation noticeable, nor has any environmental impact with a Participation Ommerschans in conjunction potential influence on the OUV been identified. On with the Forestry Commission. a larger scale (see the overarching section), floods in the Netherlands and Belgium are considered comprehensive water management to be the most important risk of climate change. No interventions in the water management in the In the Netherlands this is overcome by the high area are to be expected, except for the planned water protection programme of the Department of restoration of parts of the original water structure Waterways and Public Works. This programme is around Ommerschans, in consultation with the water implemented in collaboration with the water boards. board. This is a positive development, in the context At local level, both dehydration and of which parts of the original water infrastructure are waterlogging occur as a result of climate change. restored to their original state and as a result are made However, neither of these constitutes a direct threat, visible and perceptible. because the water management in the area can be The existing hydrological infrastructure is not properly regulated via the available water sources subject to discussion and is protected via specific and the control by the water board. The regulation zonings (1st and 2nd level waterways) through the of the water management in the area currently regulations (Keur en Legger) of the water board. The takes place through the hydrological infrastructure way in which the value of the water structure of the which had already been constructed in the days Colony landscape is brought to the attention of the of the Society of Benevolence. In addition, there is Section Colony iv, 8

Ommerschans 225 Impact of recreation and Impact of recreation visitors tourism and/or Ommerschans event of natural disasters and calamities is and calamities disasters of natural event regions. security and safety the to delegated area the Colony On the basis of the OUV, a special approach; does not require a can be partially compensated by of with the exception obligation, replanting of that lead to the extinction diseases tree specific species; mostly and hail are thunderstorms winds, by usually covered and are reparable parties the private out by taken insurance of the buildings. the owners who are 8.5.3.4 The damages to vegetation and planting can and planting The damages to vegetation measures Management of existing policy: Continuation in the the responsibility In the Netherlands, and planting The damages caused to vegetation strong The damages to buildings caused by — — — — — — be partially compensated by a replanting obligation, a replanting be partially compensated by diseases that lead to of tree with the exception The damages to of specific species. the extinction and thunderstorms winds, strong buildings caused by by usually covered and are reparable mostly hail are the parties who are the private out by taken insurance of the buildings. owners The Vechtdal (Hardenberg-Ommen-Dalfsen) is a (Hardenberg-Ommen-Dalfsen) The Vechtdal with top location within the Netherlands, recreational parks (including campsites and recreational large among and ranking amusement park Slagharen), Both the stays. overnight recreational the top five firmly are municipalities of Ommen and Hardenberg of recreation committed to the further development up till now However, and tourism in the Vechtdal. appeal of Ommerschans and tourist the recreational be has been limited, and can best and surroundings of the part a result This is in described as extensive. core the recreational of Ommerschans from distance and risk preparedness dehydration of parts of the Colony area. of parts of the Colony dehydration 8.5.3.3 Natural disasters, calamities disasters, Natural 8.5.3.3 Another potential risk for particularly the the risks of climate be concluded that may It measures Management of existing policy: Continuation further against measures takes board The water For the vegetation and the planting, diseases and the planting, the vegetation For in the the responsibility In the Netherlands, — — some need in the area for extra buffer capacity in for extra some need in the area This is storage. the form of supplementary water of filled excavation the renewed by partly provided and in its at Ommerschans in moats and waterways Sluis V, area In the new residential immediate vicinity. the water to regulate in order constructed was a wadi retention). water and regional management (rainfall is posed by the planting in the area and greenery and shifts in the temperature the rise of the average this can lead to time, Over the seasons. of character In the research changes in species and vegetation. of the planting of the valuation carried out in respect this has not been specified as a risk. and vegetation, and can be regulated properly change for the OUV are negligible. considered are a potential threat, for example tree diseases that tree example for a potential threat, are Dutch elm disease. like species, certain tree threaten and calamities is delegated disasters of natural event area The Colony to the safety and security regions. with a special approach, and the OUV do not require to which on account of its of Veldzicht, the exception plan of a separate as a judicial institution character attack applies in case of calamities. The area is not a high risk area for floods or is not a high risk area The area thunderstorms winds, although strong earthquakes, and hail can cause damage to plantings and buildings. planting, This particularly applies to the avenue solitary beeches and fluttering elms (part of the original planting). Colonies of Benevolence

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area of the Vechtdal. A further explanation is that the Management measures story and the area of Ommerschans are unknown, and Continuation of existing policy: therefore its appeal to tourists and holiday makers is —— For the time being, existing facilities offer limited. The availability of recreational facilities in sufficient opportunities to accommodate the surroundings of Ommerschans is also minimal. the limited growth of the number of Ommerschans itself is not recognised as a recreational tourists and holiday makers without destination. The acquisition of World Heritage status a negative impact on the OUV to be is expected to generate only a modest growth of expected. recreation and tourism in the area. In the area itself some small-scale developments are taking place, including: 8.5.4 SOURCES OF FINANCING —— The construction of route structures for cycling and walking, and the linking of footpaths municipal sources of financing to the existing route structures. This forms In the programme budgets of Ommen en Hardenberg, part of the implementation of the vision amounts have been included to cover the process costs Ommerschans; for the nomination of the Colonies of Benevolence —— The (yet to be realised) connection of in 2018. In addition, 300 hours per year will be made Ommerschans with the Colony path available within the Administration Office Ommen- linking the Dutch Colonies; Hardenberg for administrative support relating to the —— The realisation of some small-scale facilities nomination, the participation via the feedback group as an ancillary to agricultural functions, and the input in the core team and the programme including a teahouse and visitors’ centre; team and preparation of the steering group Colonies —— The construction of a small-scale parking of Benevolence. facility for visitors to Ommerschans and surroundings; In the programme budget of both municipalities, —— The improvement of the signage to the area funds have been made available up to and including and the placement of information panels. 2017 for the implementation or facilitation of research and field work, spread over both municipalities. These This concerns minor recreational developments on budgets are clustered and are and will be deployed such a limited scale that they will not affect the OUV, in a coordinated fashion in the period 2014-2018. nor have an impact in the sphere of generating traffic. The total amount concerned is ¤ 50.000, of which In addition, the route structures and parking facility Hardenberg is contributing ¤ 25.000 for the period will be integrated in the landscape well in line with 2016/2017, and Ommen has contributed ¤ 25.000 for the heritage values, while the route structures will the period up to and including 2015. The programme use the historic paths and structures and will serve budgets of both municipalities do not yet include a to reinforce these. These developments definitely structural entry for the period after 2018 to cover constitute a positive contribution to the prominence the costs of implementing the measures laid down of the World Heritage site and enhance the way it in the Management Plan. A budget will in any case is experienced. As regards the economy of the area, be required to cover the costs of the programme although Ommerschans does offer new economic organisation at overarching level and the process costs opportunities in the field of tourism and recreation, for facilitating the feedback group and activities in these too will be limited in size. the field of promotion, information, education and monitoring and research. Section Colony iv, 8

Ommerschans 227 PROMOTION, INFORMATION INFORMATION PROMOTION, AND EDUCATION OMMERSCHANS agreed funding of the joint organisational of the joint organisational funding agreed for the costs and the structural costs at site, Heritage management of the World Colonies of the seven level the overarching of Ommerschans. and for the Colony information and communication information 8.5.5 promotion sources of financing other parties of financing other sources In the area of Ommerschans the Foundation of Ommerschans the Foundation In the area Management measures Management the provide province the and municipalities Both — — Information on Ommerschans is part of the Colonies and can be found on the website of Benevolence the Association of both municipalities, websites Ommerschans. Ommerschans and The Forestry Participation on the placed information boards Commission have In order to propagate Ommerschans, various various Ommerschans, to propagate In order route website, activities (brochures, promotional the this purpose, For deployed. etc.) are planners, The house be further developed. must house style benches, signs, in welcome will be incorporated style fences and posts. information boards, the Ommen will market As part of city marketing, heritage in combination with the cultural existing as a unique selling point. special scenic surroundings approach. Ommerschans is a part of this marketing and heritage conviviality beauty, Looking at natural strategy. in the marketing words key are In principle, the other parties in the area will the other parties in the area In principle, for management and costs each bear their own to this applies boards water the For maintenance. and the Forestry and for Veldzicht management water of Commission to the management and maintenance the sites and attributes under their ownership.

(ver – vision heritage and space) (ver – vision heritage access to state sources sources state to access provincial sources of financing sources provincial Following nomination, the capacity reserved for the capacity reserved nomination, Following for the the management costs of In respect the nomination phase until 2018 will be continued at the nomination phase until 2018 will be continued of 300 hours for the implementation of the the level manager. tasks of the colony management and maintenance municipal properties, in the municipal maintenance been incorporated have (roads, plans and management plans for public space for mobilising the The costs greenery). and roadsides and and Heritage Aesthetics Committee for Building for the assessment of, Committee for the Monuments plans and applications for environmental example, amounts relating included in the regular are permits, and are Oversticht Het by to the services rendered fees. the administrative by covered After UNESCO World Heritage status has been status Heritage After UNESCO World the State the Colonies of Benevolence, obtained by Law on Environmental will include this in the Decree site in the Heritage a World this, (Bor). Following qualify for VER funding, will in principle Netherlands although this is not guaranteed. In the nomination phase, VER sources have have VER sources In the nomination phase, stories’. five history, ‘One contributed to the project For the maintenance of national monuments, the maintenance of national monuments, For individuals can apply for management and private and seek advice from (BRIM) maintenance grants and Overijssel. Flevoland Watch Monument At provincial level, it already has been indicated it already level, provincial At in the that Ommerschans should be incorporated to be eligible for incidental in order policy cultural This is province. the by provided resources grant individuals who intend to also necessary for private because incorporation Watch, bring in Monument policy influences the of Ommerschans in provincial Watch. prioritising of Monument Colonies of Benevolence

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cemetery, near the parking facility and on and within and tells the story of the fortress and of the Colony the fortress site (in front of the fortress part). Within of Ommerschans. Finally, the Association organises the fortress there are two pedestals which when visitors’ days and volunteers/ days in the area, in stepped on respond by telling the story of the fortress. collaboration with the Foundation Participation The Association Ommerschans is a participant Ommerschans and the Forestry Commission. Many in the project ‘One history, five stories’, which activities in the field of education and to certain includes the realisation of visitors’ centres in each of degree also information are thus organised by the the four management units, or clusters of Colonies. Association Ommerschans, and these activities are in The realisation of visitors’ centres is thus dealt with part facilitated by both municipalities. in a joint context. In the visitors’ centres, uniform Archaeological and flora research has been information on all the Colonies is provided. In conducted in the area on behalf of the Forestry Ommerschans a visitors’ centre will be set up by the Commission for the property of the Colony of Hiemstra family in (farm) Hoeve 4. This visitors’ Ommerschans. Through fieldwork and archaeological centre is in line with the collective story and presents research, the subsoil of the area has been inventoried. identical information material (panels and brochures) In the course of the research, various finds were about the Colonies of Benevolence. Association made and archived. Some of these finds will become Ommerschans is planning to place a scale model of the available for exhibition in the visitors’ centres or institution and the surrounding area in the visitors’ will be made digitally accessible via websites and centre which is specifically focused on the Colony of film material. Some wishes still remain, for example Ommerschans. It is the intention to open the visitors’ the creation of an inventory of the exact locations centre before the UNESCO World Heritage status has of the foundations based on ground radar research, been obtained. and to visualise (laying open, marking, etc.) these foundations. education With the aid of municipal grants, the Association Ommerschans is developing an educational booklet on Ommerschans and the days of the Colony. This educational booklet provides the basis for an educational programme for the primary schools. As part of this programme, the schools will be given a tour round the area of Ommerschans and surroundings. The educational booklet and the programme tell the story of both the fortress period and the Colony period, and aims at keeping both stories alive in the area. In addition, the existing booklet about Ommerschans, written by Ans Esselink, will be rewritten, with the addition of the most recent developments. The Association also has a flyer, which is updated annually. For the tours, maps of Ommerschans have been made. Both booklets will be more widely used by the Association for the propagation of the stories through tours, lectures, being present with stands at different activities. The Association offers guided tours around the fortress

8 Section Ommerschans 229

Monitoring 8.6 Details on the subject of monitoring are provided provided Details on the subject of monitoring are in this section it is in the main section. Therefore, sufficient to point out that the colony considered data for the monitoring of the manager will provide Heritage Ommerschans after the UNESCO World manager will has been obtained. The colony status with the parties in Ommerschans agreements make information and will about the supply of the required if necessary. initiate research

9 Section Colonies V and VII Wortel and Merksplas Management Plan World Heritage nomination — Colonies of Benevolence Colonies of Benevolence

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9.0 Introduction

The reason for preparing the Management Plan, the landscape structure remained preserved. In that section Wortel and Merksplas, is that Belgium and sense, Wortel is the only hybrid Colony, where the the Netherlands have jointly decided to propose structure of a free as well as an unfree Colony is to UNESCO that the Colonies of Benevolence are recognisable. nominated for UNESCO World Heritage status. Because of the strong cohesion and the similar The province of Antwerp, Kempens Landschap, the history, the two Colonies are regarded as one city of Hoogstraten and the municipality of Merksplas management unit and dealt with in one section. recognise the outstanding values of both Colonies. Wortel Colony and Merksplas Colony are two of In 1999, the Flemish Minister for the Environment the total of seven Colonies of Benevolence founded and Employment issued the “decree on the definitive by the Society of Benevolence in the period 1818 to protection as landscape” in respect of both the 1825. Wortel was founded in 1822 as the first free State Benevolence Colony Wortel and the State Colony of the Society of Benevolence in the Southern Benevolence Colony Merksplas. In 2009, the province Netherlands. In 1825, Merksplas was founded as of Antwerp adopted the Spatial Implementation an unfree Colony by the Society of Benevolence of Plan for Merksplas Colony, designating the area as the southern provinces. It is the last Colony of the ecological infrastructure of supralocal interest. In series to be founded. In 1830 the Colonies started to 2014, this was followed by the Spatial Implementation deteriorate, and in 1859 the Society of Benevolence Plan for Wortel Colony, with equal status. The in the Southern Netherlands was dissolved. In 1870 municipalities will incorporate the provisions in both Colonies were purchased by the Belgian State these provincial spatial implementation plans in their and developed into ‘State Benevolence Colonies’. regulations and licensing. As from 1870, the Merksplas Colony underwent The ambition of the province of Antwerp as a comprehensive programme of refurbishment well as the city and the municipality is to obtain and expansion, resulting in a five-fold increase of UNESCO World Heritage status for Wortel Colony the reception capacity. During this period, Wortel and Merksplas Colony as part of the seven Colonies of Colony transformed into an unfree Colony, where Benevolence. Section colony v and vii, 9

Wortel and Merksplas 233 The Management Plan is valid for 10 years for 10 years Plan is valid The Management and will enter into force on the date that the World on the date that the World and will enter into force carried out in the is obtained. Work status Heritage nomination phase is insofar as possible in accordance with this section. This section, Wortel and Merksplas, is an integral part is an integral and Merksplas, This section, Wortel Plan Colonies of Benevolence, of the Management In Heritage site. World nomination file UNESCO Plan the of the Management section the general dealt with. management aspects are overarching sections of Colonies separate or cluster Colony Per with specific characteristics, up been drawn have for and management measures developments that section. In compliance with the Operational how Plan stipulates Management the Guidelines, “Outstanding the the globally unique significance, of (OUV), of the Colonies Value” Universal and/or reinforced will be preserved, Benevolence the state, taking into account the current restored, and the vision on authenticity initial circumstances and integrity for the coming years. Colonies of Benevolence

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9.1 Outstanding Universal Value

In the general section of the Management Plan the The Colonies of Benevolence bear testimony to Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) of the Colonies an exceptional and large-scale early 19th century of Benevolence is described. Below a more detailed utopian experiment in social engineering, with description of the OUV of Wortel Colony and the objective of eradicating poverty through Merksplas Colony is provided. a system of agricultural settlements. The seven Colonies demonstrate the evolution of the system with free and unfree Colonies, 9.1.1 Outstanding Universal Value and encompass the traces of its successes and Wortel and Merksplas failures. The experiment is an important step in the long Western European tradition of care of The property Colonies of Benevolence is nominated the poor and distinguishes itself by its large scale as “Cultural Landscape”. It is a transnational and and the active role of the State. serial nomination. The Colonies of Benevolence are nominated on the basis of the criteria (iii), (v) and This is reflected in: (vi). Each criterion is further substantiated on the 1 The systematic disciplining (labour, basis of a total of eight essential characteristics. These training and morality) of poor and needy essential characteristics are used for the comparative citizens, organised on a national scale; analysis and the definition of the attributes. 2 The building up of self-reliant communities with high-quality facilities; Criterion III: 3 The organisation as a ‘laboratory for better To bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony citizens’, for the existing society. to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared. 9 Wortel and Merksplas Section colony v and vii ,

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Criterion V: Criterion VI: Be an outstanding example of a traditional Be directly or tangibly associated with events human settlement, land-use, or sea-use which is or living traditions, with ideas, or with beliefs, representative of a culture (or cultures), or human with artistic and literary works of outstanding interaction with the environment especially when universal significance. it has become vulnerable under the impact of irreversible change. The nationally organised experiment in poverty reduction in the Colonies of Benevolence took The Colonies of Benevolence are an exceptional root as a social initiative of the elite and the series of agricultural settlements, cultivated as national government. It combined traditional “islands” in inhospitable heath and peatland Christian values like charity and work ethic areas. The orthogonal structure and distinctive with the ideas of the Enlightenment, such as the layout of the landscape reflect the character of belief in emancipation, makeability, self-reliance, free and unfree Colonies. The strict hierarchic freedom of religion and the relationship between structure and dimensioning, with the carefully individuals and the State. The experiment had considered placement of buildings and planting, a great impact on the thinking about edification was instrumental in the intended influencing of of the masses, social mobility and the role and the behaviour of the inhabitants. The current responsibility of the State in that respect, and it cultural landscapes illustrate the extent, marks an early step in the development of the the ambition and the evolution of this social European tradition of social engineering. At the experiment. same time, the ambition proved to be utopian. Due to the numerous associative meanings, the This is reflected in: Colonies earned their place in the collective 4 The cultivation and organisation memory of the Netherlands and Flanders. of extensive closed agricultural settlements with a strict hierarchic structure and This is reflected in: dimensioning, with the aim of working out 7 The joint action of citizens and State in an integrated solution on a national scale to an innovative approach to tackling poverty on a the problem of poverty; national scale, in a public-private partnership; 5 The organisational model with two types: 8 The landscape of memory with its diverse free and unfree Colonies. The system was and evolving meanings in the collective memory focused on all the target groups of the poor and of the Netherlands and Belgium. needy, based on the belief in progress, according to which poverty in all its forms could be solved; Wortel was the first Colony in the Southern 6 The focus on the maximisation and Netherlands, founded as a free Colony, with colonists’ the optimisation of agricultural productivity farms, four central buildings (‘les quatre bâtiments’) by the colonists. and four guards’ houses. Experiences gained in Frederiksoord and Willemsoord were incorporated in the design, but adapted to local conditions. Originally a spinning hall, a school/church, a director’s house and a warehouse were located in the central buildings. In the absence of water for transport, a grid of roads was constructed on the heath (on sandy soil) around a central crossroads. Colonies of Benevolence

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Merksplas was founded as an unfree Colony. In its Both Wortel Colony and Merksplas Colony encompass design, experiences from all the previous Colonies the three criteria. Both Colonies offer a representative were incorporated. The original plan contained a reflection of a number of sub-aspects, with the central institution with various facilities, four large emphasis on sub-aspects III 2, V 4 and 5 and VI 8. For farms and four sheep pens, a bakery, and in a later Merksplas this also includes sub-aspect III 1 and V 6. phase also a barracks. The road structure and the plot layout were inspired by the functional needs of the agricultural practice. Characteristics Wortel Organisationally, the Colonies of Benevolence in relation to OUV in the Southern Netherlands differed from that of the sister Colonies in the Northern Netherlands: there Typology: was, for example, no bell to regulate the daily rhythm, First free Colony, later unfree Colony. Farm ribbons no freedom of religion, and the overall operational with central crossroads with facilities and ongoing management was adapted to local agricultural development. practice and financial circumstances. However, the Structure of the landscape: similarities were more striking than the differences. Main avenues, roads and paths in between the main As regards the layout of the landscape and the road structure. Canals, Staakheuvelseloop (slow- structure of the organisational model, the Wortel running brooks). Applied measurement system: Colony and Merksplas Colony fit in perfectly with approx. 600 and 60 metres. the series of Colonies as it was developed in seven Representative buildings and planting: years’ time. In 1859, the Society of Benevolence in the Guards’ houses, workshops, farm, cemetery, village Southern Netherlands was dissolved. Subsequently, centre (crossroads). the property was purchased by the Belgian State. As from 1870, a relaunch was effected as ’State Benevolence Colony’. All kinds of buildings were Characteristics Merksplas added, but the plot layout remained preserved. In in relation to OUV the series, Wortel is the Colony where the original grid and the plot layout are most clearly visible until Typology: today. Merksplas reflects the up-scaling of the farms Unfree Colony. Central institution with large-scale in the plot structures and the geometrical composition model farm and ongoing development. around a central institution. Structure of the landscape: Main avenues, secondary avenues, moat. Applied The most important attributes are: measurement system: 225 metres. —— The basic typology of the free and unfree Representative buildings and planting: Colonies of Benevolence; Large Farm and surrounding buildings, prison guards’ —— The structure of the landscape, consisting houses, chapel, school, cemetery. of roads and avenue structures, water structures, the measurement system applied, and the grid of the buildings; —— The buildings and planting representative of the experiment in poverty reduction and its ongoing development. Section colony v and vii, 9

Wortel and Merksplas 237 INNOVATION INNOVATION 6.AGRICULTURAL 6.AGRICULTURAL 3. MINI-SOCIETY FOR FOR MINI-SOCIETY 3. ALL DENOMINATIONS ALL DENOMINATIONS Large Farm, consisting Farm, Large of: homes – stable stables – horse barn – hay – cow sheds stable – quarantine cellar – potato – 3 open barns Farm north of building Farm farm Chapel ‘OLV Hemelvaart’ Chapel ‘OLV Chapel choir (east side) 8. LANDSCAPE OF MEMORY LANDSCAPE OF MEMORY 8. Cemetery Cemetery and Merksplas for Wortel centre Visitors’ being set up) (currently Colony COMMUNITIES 2. SELF-RELIANT 5. ORGANISATIONAL ORGANISATIONAL 5. MODEL FREE/UNFREE MODEL FREE/UNFREE Central institution with Central model farm large-scale development and ongoing Farm ribbons with central ribbons with central Farm with facilities crossroads development and ongoing Distance north/south Distance north/south 225 metres approx. roads Warehouse’ ‘Middle School Distance east/west- main structure oriented 600 metres approx. houses Guards’ Symmetric building yard large around complex (south side) Workshops south of Workshops complex building central PROBLEM PROBLEM 7. SOCIAL INITIATIVE ELITE ELITE SOCIAL INITIATIVE 7. 1. TRADITION TRADITION 1. PUNISHMENT PUNISHMENT DISCIPLINING: DISCIPLINING: 4. INTEGRATED INTEGRATED 4. EDUCATION, CARE, CARE, EDUCATION, SOLUTION POVERTY POVERTY SOLUTION Cultivation landscape Main avenues road Regional Secondary avenues Cultivation landscape Main avenues Secondary avenues Moat Guardhouse houses Prison guards’ School houses (Head) houses Guards’ (Casino) Barracks Houses opposite barracks LANDSCAPE LANDSCAPE CULTIVATION CULTIVATION VI. PRECURSOR VI. PRECURSOR WELFARE STATE STATE WELFARE V. LARGE-SCALE LARGE-SCALE V. III. LANDSCAPE OF III. LANDSCAPE OF SOCIAL ENGINEERING SOCIAL ENGINEERING Wortel Wortel Merksplas Merksplas Merksplas Wortel Wortel Merksplas Merksplas Wortel Wortel Colonies of Benevolence

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9.1.2 INTEGRITY AND 2 Attribute illustrates what it was AUTHENTICITY historically, but the historical context has not been well preserved; The Colonies of Benevolence are cultural landscapes 3 Attribute is damaged element in relation consisting of cultivated rough ground, and developed to what it looked like at the time of landscaping/ into agricultural colonies with a view to eradicating construction; poverty through labour, training and disciplining. 4 Attribute concerns element that does not Until today, that basic principle and objective remain originate from the selected period, but with recognisable in the orthogonally structured landscape regard to which the historical positioning has with avenues, meadows, fields and forests, and been respected, particularly placement in and with the characteristic houses, farms, institutions, respect for the grid. churches, schools and industrial buildings. In Wortel Colony the OUV is currently visible and In the establishment and the development of the perceptible in the structure of the landscape and the Colonies of Benevolence, the following periods can be planting, in certain spatial characteristics and specific recognised: objects. 0 Preliminary phase: the period before the arrival of the Society of Benevolence, with The following aspects are recognisable in the undeveloped heaths and bogs with sporadic structure of the landscape: cultivation; —— The orthogonal parcellation of the first 1 Foundation phase: cultivation and cultivation with central north-south organisation by the Society of Benevolence axis, parallel transverse links with (1818–1825); a fixed dimensioning of approximately 2 The further evolution of the Colonies 600 metres; (varying in time per Colony; roughly 1825–1859); —— The plot boundaries of the colony houses and 3 Phase of state institutions in the unfree forest in narrow uniform lots, separated by Colonies, partial privatisation in the free a system of canals and paths. The plots are Colonies, and increase in scale in all the Colonies the remains of the farm lots from the days (varying in time per Colony, roughly after 1859); of the free Colony; 4 Phase of redevelopment and valuation —— The avenues form an impressive grid-shaped of the heritage (starting from the period pattern, which is hierarchically structured 1980–1990). with single and double avenues (with a double row of trees); —— The central crossroads with the current integrity and authenticity of buildings, which still have a characteristic attributes wortel colony and 45° positioning but which date from the merksplas colony period after the transformation of the site In the context of the nomination, the attributes are into a State Benevolent Colony; assessed in terms of recognisability and authenticity: —— The drainage and dewatering systems too have 1 Attribute possesses authenticity and an orthogonal structure; integrity, and gives a good and perceptible —— As regards the planting the avenue plantings impression of how the attribute looked in the consisting of common oak, but also historical context in the period concerned; northern red oak and beech, are distinctive, as are the timber production forests with 9 Wortel and Merksplas Section colony v and vii ,

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pine afforestation, which in some cases is date mainly from the phase as State Benevolence gradually switching to deciduous forest Colony (1870–1969). and heath relicts with some fens modelled on the ancient fen complexes. In Merksplas Colony, too, the OUV is still visible and perceptible today in the structure of the landscape Spatial characteristics are: and the planting, in certain spatial characteristics and —— The open character of the plots in the centre; specific objects. —— The closed character caused by the wooded areas along the edges; The following aspects are recognisable in the —— The vistas: from the outside the Colony structure of the landscape: boundaries are visible, and the road and —— The orthogonally laid out landscape, with a grid- water structures provide vistas; shaped avenue pattern and an extensive, —— Functionality of the houses and buildings, characteristic building stock. The water including their orientation. structure of the not fully closed 6,5 metre wide moat, of the canals and ditches along Characteristic of the buildings are: avenues and roads, and of the fens; —— The main building of the agricultural Colony, —— The main road structure (including the avenue the former institution with central offices, planting and front gardens and so-called workshops and dormitories, dates from ‘overtuinen’ – gardens on the other side the late 19th century. These days it is used of the road or ditch – at the Kapelstraat, exclusively as a detention centre; Osserweg, Gasthuisdreef, Beersedreef and —— The building structure which is part of the the Steenweg op Rijkevorsel); landscape structure, i.e. the houses at the —— The secondary road structure (including intersection of the Kolonieweg, similar the avenue planting and front gardens to the structure applied in 1819 in the, and ‘overtuinen’ at the Kweekstraat, also free, Colony of Willemsoord in the Dammekenstraat, Gentse Wijk, Northern Netherlands; Nijverheidstraat, Zoete Inval, Beukendreef —— The double tied houses, concentrated and and Rode Dreef ); symmetrically situated at the north-south —— The measurement system: the distance between main axis and at the western part of the the north-south roads is approximately 225 nearby east-west axis, with hedged utility metres; gardens. —— The remaining plot boundaries of the farmlands; —— The vagrants’ cemeteries along the The typology, the spatial and landscape characteristics Gasthuisdreef; in Wortel Colony date from the foundation phase. —— The timber production forests. In the planting Through the subsequent phases and the development sporadic heath and fen relicts of the vast into State Benevolence Colony (vagrants’ Colony) pre-colonial heath plains remain. In the they have remained largely preserved. These grid the main avenues were provided with attributes are authentic within their historical a double avenue planting, consisting of context (classification 1). The existing buildings, too, mainly common oak, but also northern red are authentic within their historical context. Only a oak and beech. The layout of the landscape few workshops and farm houses have been radically is derived to a large extent from the days of changed in relation to the time of construction the Society of Benevolence. (classification 3). The buildings and their functionality Colonies of Benevolence

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Spatial characteristics are: —— The industrial buildings and sites, including the —— In Merksplas the buildings are centrally so-called ‘middle warehouse’ dating from situated in the avenue structure. the first quarter of the 20th century, and The organisational renewal in 1870 some more recent industrial buildings near served to reinforce this effect; the former brickworks. The brickworks —— The architecture, the spatial development were the earliest industrial activity, and and the landscape reflect a high degree served mainly to provide bricks for the of cohesion; Colony buildings; —— Open character: the open plots west of —— The guards’ houses (‘de Zoete Inval’ – Open the Colony; House – and ‘de Gentse Wijk’ – Ghent —— Internally closed character caused by wooded District), both dating from the 1930s; areas (north, south, east) and by clustering —— Other farm buildings, such as the hay barn, open of buildings on the intersection of the main barns, potato cellars, quarantine stable and roads; and from the outside due to the the Small Farm, located in the southern avenue planting along the moat; part of the Colony; —— Functionality of the houses and buildings, —— The ensemble of staff housing at the Steenweg including their orientation. op Rijkevorsel and the more scattered houses for senior personnel, each with Characteristic of the buildings are: a garden with a beech hedge. —— The impressive building complex (the Large Farm – a model farm with main buildings – The broad lines of the parcellation and landscape pigsties and cow shed, and houses for the structures date from the foundation phase. Parts of guards-supervisors and their families), the buildings also date from that time. The typology, designed by Victor Besme, around the the spatial and landscape characteristics in Merksplas rectangle of the original institution of the Colony are authentic in their historical context Society of Benevolence. This building (classification 1; only a few plot boundaries are no complex was established in 1878 to longer visible in their context). Currently the most replace the labour farms from the time striking representative buildings date from the phase of the Society of Benevolence. It ensured of the State Benevolence Colony (1870–1969). These a simpler business administration and too are authentic in their context (classification 1). supervision, as well as self-sufficiency of the Colony. The old building from the days of Johannes van den Bosch is incorporated in it. Besme’s architectural input and the set-up of the site prove that the 1870 relaunch of the beggars’ Colony was a prestige project for the Belgian government; —— The chapel from 1899, located on the central axis and designed by the architect Besme, who used industrial elements both in terms of materials (metal) and construction method (skylight);

Section colony v and vii, 9 241 Wortel and Merksplas

LOCATION AND BOUNDARIES LOCATION

9.2.1 9.2 The properties of Wortel (V) and Merksplas (V) and Merksplas of Wortel The properties

Merksplas Colony Merksplas Wortel Colony and and Colony Wortel (VII) are surrounded by a fairly open landscape with by surrounded (VII) are at the outer areas wooded The zonings. mainly rural edges of both Colonies and the planted embankment the the view of and from protect Merksplas around a buffer Because of this closed character, Colony. called ‘Green are areas is not needed. The wooded is and their preservation bretellen), (Groene straps’ in policies and management plans. anchored The properties of Wortel Colony and Merksplas and Merksplas Colony of Wortel The properties the original with in accordance bordered are Colony These of the Society of Benevolence. area cultivation boundaries encompass the attributes of the sites. Colonies of Benevolence

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↑ Wortel (V), structure of the landscape (J.V.L.) 9 Wortel and Merksplas Section colony v and vii ,

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↑ Merksplas (VII), orthogonal pattern of the landscape (L.V.) M1.7 IDENTIFICATION Identification COLONY 5 — WORTEL Colony1:50.000 V: Wortel 1:50.000 Colonies of Benevolence

Heikant 244 51°27'0"N

Oude Strumpt Nieuwe Strumpt

Heesboom 51°26'30"N 51°26'0"N

Castelre 51°25'30"N 51°25'0"N 51°24'30"N 51°24'0"N 51°23'30"N 51°23'0"N 51°22'30"N 51°22'0"N

Merksplas

Property

Bufferzone 51°21'30"N

Coordinate System: RD New Projection: Double Stereographic Datum: Amersfoort Units: Meter

0 1 Km. 51°21'0"N

4°45'30"E 4°46'0"E 4°46'30"E 4°47'0"E 4°47'30"E 4°48'0"E 4°48'30"E 4°49'0"E 4°49'30"E 4°50'0"E 4°50'30"E 4°51'0"E 4°51'30"E 4°52'0"E 4°52'30"E 4°53'0"E 4°53'30"E Section colony v and vii, 9

Wortel and Merksplas 245

51°20'30"N 51°20'0"N 51°19'30"N 51°19'0"N 51°18'30"N 51°25'0"N 51°24'30"N 51°24'0"N 51°23'30"N 51°23'0"N 51°22'30"N 51°22'0"N 51°21'30"N 51°21'0"N 4°53'30"E 4°53'0"E 4°52'30"E 4°52'0"E 4°51'30"E Merksplas 4°51'0"E 4°50'30"E 4°50'0"E 4°49'30"E 4°49'0"E 4°48'30"E 4°48'0"E 4°47'30"E Km. 1 4°47'0"E Property Bufferzone 4°46'30"E 0 CoordinateSystem: RDNew Projection: Double Stereographic Datum: Amersfoort Units: Meter IDENTIFICATION M1.9 COLONY 511 — MERKSPLAS 1:50.000 M1.9 Identification Merksplas VII: Colony 1:50.000 4°46'0"E Colonies of Benevolence

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9.2.2 QUALITATIVE DESCRIPTION was forced to sell by Royal Decree. Experiences gained OF WORTEL AND MERKSPLAS in Frederiksoord and Willemsoord were incorporated in the design, adapted to local conditions. The first name was “South-Frederiksoord”. 9.2.2.1 Broad outline In the absence of water for transport, a grid of roads was constructed on the heath (on sandy soil), Wortel and Merksplas, founded in 1822 and 1825, around a central crossroads. are the Colonies in the Southern Netherlands. They For this project a major part of the rough heath were set up along the lines of the free Colonies in was cultivated, by stripping the turf off the vegetated the Northern Netherlands such as Frederiksoord topsoil, burning the heather sods and fertilising the (Wortel) and the unfree Colonies such as Veenhuizen acidic and not very fertile sandy soil. In the course of (Merksplas). Wortel Colony and Merksplas Colony the cultivation of the heath, avenues were constructed are situated at a short distance from each other in the in an orthogonal structure. At the intersection of Kempen region in the province of Antwerp, adjacent the main avenues, a diamond-shaped square was to the current Dutch-Belgian border. constructed for “les quatre bâtiments”, with the In 1821, for the purpose of managing these two director’s house, a primary school, a warehouse and southern Colonies, the Society of Benevolence of the an industrial building, which included a spinning Southern Netherlands was established. The Belgian hall. Until 1827, 125 simple small stone single-storey branch of the Society survived until 1859, even after farmhouses were built, measuring approximately 7,5 Belgian independence in 1830, but the Colonies metres x 15 metres, with thatched roofs. In addition to deteriorated. In 1870, the Belgian government a living room there were three bedrooms, a basement purchased Wortel Colony and Merksplas . In 1871 and a wooden shed. These rectangular buildings construction was started of a new agricultural Colony were situated on either side of the avenue, with the in Merksplas, and in 1882 in Wortel. From then on, façade oriented towards the avenue. Each family was the Colonies were called State Benevolent Colonies. provided with housing, some cattle and grain, and In 1891, the Act for the repression of vagrancy was was to cultivate the infertile heath. In the period up adopted, which provided Wortel and Merksplas with till around 1850, a centrally structured landscape their iconic character of vagrants’ Colonies. They originated made up of avenues, canals, buildings and retained the status of vagrants’ Colony until 1993 (the farmlands, with in the north uncultivated fens and abolition of the Vagrancy Act), albeit interrupted at heaths and in the south forests crossed by avenues. regular intervals by different kinds of use, such as the In 1822 the first families moved into the farms. reception of refugees and the internment of political The population grew from 151 in 1822 to the maximum prisoners around the time of the World Wars. of 636 in 1829. The initial phase of the project can be considered a failure. It soon became clear that the families from the city could not cope with rural life. 9.2.2.2 Foundation phase 1822 – 1828 Moreover, the ideas of the Dutch lacked appeal, and financial mismanagement occurred. Therefore, the Wortel was the first Colony in the Southern free agricultural Colony was disbanded as early as Netherlands, founded as a free Colony. The area 1828, and the remaining residents were employed as (213 hectares of rough ground owned by the Duke of farm workers. Salm-Salm and the banker Hennesy, and 303 hectares owned by the municipality of Wortel) was purchased In 1823, the Society of Benevolence of the Southern by the Society of Benevolence of the Southern Netherlands decided to proceed with the construction Netherlands in 1822. The municipal council of Wortel of Merksplas Colony. The line between the church 9 Wortel and Merksplas Section colony v and vii ,

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towers of Merksplas and Rijkevorsel dictated the 9.2.2.4 Nationalisation 1870 orientation of the main avenue in east-west direction. The characteristic pattern originated as a result of After the Society of Benevolence in Belgium had parallel and perpendicular avenues. Merksplas was been dissolved in 1859, it was not until 1870 that the designed as an unfree Colony for beggars fit for work. Belgian State purchased the property. In 1886 (after In 1824, the first beggars’ building was moved into. the workers’ revolt in Wallonia and in response to the Today, this building is still part of the prison complex, growing awareness among the elite of the ‘threat’ of albeit in refurbished form. 100 hectares of forest vagrants) legislation on the repression of vagrancy was planted north of the Colony, and 200 hectares of was passed. This law was further refined by the 1891 farmland was cultivated in the Colony. Lejeune Act. From 1871, renovations and adjustments In 1825 the buildings around the courtyard of what were initiated in both Colonies, designed by the is currently the prison were completed. The Colony famous architect Victor Besme en managed on site functioned until 1859, when the Society of Benevolence by the engineer F. Zanen from Turnhout, who was of the Southern Netherlands ceased to exist. employed by the Bridges and Roads Authority, where Besme held the position of ‘Inspecteur Voyer’ (road inspector). In respect of the central building for 9.2.2.3 Belgian independence 1830 vagrants in Merksplas, signed specifications and plans have been found9. For Wortel such evidence is lacking, In 1830 Belgium became independent. In Wortel but there are reasonable grounds to assume that F. Colony the population rebelled and the harvest was Zanen made the design10. In 1881, prison buildings destroyed. The mayor of Wortel played a role in were erected for the vagrants. Until 1910 new this, due to the forced sale eight years earlier. Many buildings were constructed that define the current beggars joined either the Dutch army or the army of appearance of the area. To facilitate construction, the rebels. Most of the farms were set on fire. The brickworks were established and clay was extracted “Dutch project” came to an end. In 1841 the Society’s from the soil. Subsequently, some of these clay pits contract expired, but the Belgian State refused to were used as landfill, while others are still visible as purchase the domain. Merksplas Colony, too, was ponds. In Wortel the farm, the barracks and the prison virtually abandoned. In 1840 the Belgian government guards’ houses were built. Canals and sub-canals ceased its financial support of the project. In 1859, the were dug and the plot layout remained preserved. The Society of Benevolence of the Southern Netherlands prison building symbolises the unfree Colony that was dissolved. The last 250 colonists had to return Wortel was converted to during this period. Wortel to their original municipalities, or they were housed Colony was designed for ‘ordinary beggars’ according in monasteries or with farmers. A small number to the Lejeune Act, who begged because they were of residents remained. In 1846, in order to prevent poor as a result of old age, unemployment, disability public auction, Prince Frederick purchased the or sickness. Merksplas became the location for the domains of Wortel Colony and Merksplas Colony. ‘professional beggars’ who were accused of laziness, The school (with 52 pupils remaining at that time) debauchery or drunkenness. was demolished. In 1853, 15 families were still living In 1878, four dormitories for vagrants (currently in in Wortel. The farms of Wortel Colony gradually use as a centre for illegal immigrants) arose in Merksplas disappeared (most of them only after 1890, while one Colony, in line with the existing prison building. In 1880 reportedly remained in existence until the 1950s 8) and the Large Farm, with a built-up area of 3.000 square nothing remains of these buildings today. During this metres, was completed, and up to 210 hectares of land period, the buildings in Merksplas were unoccupied was in use. In 1899 the chapel was completed. Behind and dilapidated. the prison industrial buildings arose, in which by 1910 Colonies of Benevolence

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15 companies were active. In addition to agriculture, During the interwar period, a start was made with a Merksplas also functioned as location for all kinds of classification of the delinquents and a differentiation crafts, such as forging, making buttons, clogs and shoes, of the institutions. Merksplas Colony became more and (basket) weaving. Companies from other regions and more a semi-open prison, with security housing (Brussels, Breda) also established workshops there. during the night, but employment in the open air or Moreover, some 120 prison guards’ houses and a school in workshops during the day. Different departments were built during this period. Until just before the First were set up, including a department for the mentally World War, Merksplas Colony experienced a steady ill and a sanatorium. In addition, the organisation growth to about 5400 vagrants. started an agricultural school for inmates. From 1935, Over this period the number of residents in provisions for psychiatric patients were created in Wortel also increased, to 958 in 1904. Business Wortel, in addition to the reception of vagrants. In activities in Wortel focused on agriculture (123 1938, refugees from Eastern Europe and German Jews hectares of fields and pastures) as well as forestry (246 were housed in Merksplas, while during the Second hectares of planted fir trees). World War the occupiers locked up political prisoners As in Wortel Colony, the buildings in Merksplas there. After the war, by contrast, collaborators were Colony were fully aligned with the chequered interned in Merksplas. structure of the avenues. The straight axes along the agricultural plots and buildings ensured efficient From 1946 all the beggars and vagrants were initially monitoring of the vagrants in the closed Colony. In housed in Wortel Colony, turning the institution the series of all the Colonies, Wortel is the Colony in Merksplas into a genuine penal institution. where the original grid and the plot layout is the most For security reasons, a number of architectural evident until today. Until 1893, colonists dug the moat adjustments were carried out, and the penal (8 to 12 metres wide) around Merksplas Colony, with institution was modernised through the addition the exception of the southernmost part of the Colony, of new facilities. In 1951 an additional pavilion for which remained virtually uncultivated. The original vagrants was started again in Merksplas. uncultivated landscape consisting of heaths and fens is still recognisable there. From the 1950s until the abolition of the Vagrants Act and the closure of the State Benevolence Colonies During the First World War, Wortel and Merksplas in 1993, the Colonies were in use for vagrants were in use as a location for the shelter of refugees. (mainly in Wortel) as well as ordinary prisoners. At Most of the beggars had been enlisted in the army. the time of closure, 260 vagrants continued to live After the wartime period, the number of in Wortel Colony, while in 1996 27 still remained, vagrants in Merksplas Colony declined significantly. on a voluntary basis11. From that time, the central The national economy flourished due to the prison buildings in Wortel, which in May 1996 were renovation of the country. However, 1.087 vagrants converted into an institution for short-term prisoners, were killed by the Spanish flu epidemic of 1918. were only used by the prison authorities. Most of Gradually, the buildings of the organisation assumed the residential buildings have since that time been a different function. In 1920 the sewage works were occupied by personnel of the penal institution – after converted into the Small Farm, with the function of refurbishment and modernisation – or have been penal agricultural school. In the 1920s – 1990s, the demolished. Some were not reconstructed following Colonies had a varying population, with Wortel even a fire. In the prison complex several old wings being completely closed for some time (from 1929 to (including the dormitories for the vagrants) were 1935), while Merksplas was invested with additional ordinary prison tasks. 9 Wortel and Merksplas Section colony v and vii ,

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replaced by new construction. Some brick buildings 9.2.2.6 Current meaning: cultural were limed and painted white (Wortel Colony) or heritage, landscape, social, yellow (Merksplas). After a revolt in 1956, the prison status, functional building in Merksplas had its saddle roofs with tiles largely removed and its walls painted pink. Currently, Wortel Colony still has two built-up areas: around the crossroads (‘les quatre bâtiments’) and the prison. In addition there are undeveloped zones 9.2.2.5 Protection from 1999 in the Colony: a central open agricultural zone, a closed forest zone around this agricultural zone (with With the abolition of the Vagrancy Act in 1993, the the exception of the northeast) where the cemetery Colonies were dissolved. This carried the risk of is located, and a wild heath zone in the northeast leading to fragmentation of the area. Due to a lack of with some fens and a large pond. The avenue pattern alternatives for the vacated buildings, these remained and the parcellation provide the landscape with its unoccupied. In 1996, a number of citizens in Merksplas orthogonal structure. This layout is protected under united in the Platform ‘Save Merksplas Colony’. the provisions of the protected landscape. Agriculture The rescue was to take the form of protection of the is practised by farmers from the area on field plots landscape, restoration of the buildings, upgrading of (undeveloped plots). nature and providing the area as a whole with new Of the four buildings around the central dynamics. This also became a growing realisation in crossroads, three are left: the former vagrants’ farm Wortel, which led to the ‘March on Wortel’ for the in the northeast corner, the Casino (former barracks) purpose of preserving the Colony. In reaction, the in the southeast corner, and the former school in the province of Antwerp in 1997 founded the non-profit northwest corner. organisation Kempens Landschap in order to put the The school and the Casino are in use as responsibility for the preservation and accessibility residential accommodation and as party hall/ of the areas in public hands. In 1999 the objective of brasserie (including the renovation at the rear preservation was formalised by granting the status of carried out in accordance with the original plan) protected landscape to the landscapes and the building by non-profit organisation Widar, which runs a stock of Wortel Colony and Merksplas Colony. home for adults with a moderate to severe mental All the components of the sites have remained handicap. the property of government organisations at The major part of the former vagrants’ farm municipal, provincial, Flemish and federal level. This is in use by non-profit organisation De Bonte came about as a result of the sale since 1993 of parts Beestenboel, which organises agricultural classes of the sites by the federal government, which only and farm camps for young people, and rents out a retained the ownership of prisons and the reception of party hall and a weekend accommodation. A small illegal immigrants. Kempens Landschap successfully part of the vagrants’ farm is in use by the non-profit ensured appropriate re-use of the buildings, and organisation Natuurpunt, which runs visitors’ centre management and restoration where necessary. ‘De Klapekster’, including an information desk, conference room, museum and cafeteria. Another small part is in use by non-profit organisation ‘De Slinger’, a youth association for disabled children which regularly organises activities for members. The city of Hoogstraten uses a number of warehouses north of the farm as storage facility and as a stable for the shepherd. Colonies of Benevolence

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The sizable historic façade of the prison can be in Merksplas are designated as monument, whereas seen from the access roads. The subsequently added those in Wortel are not. Many buildings in Wortel buildings of the penitentiary institution are not visible have been included on the Inventory of Architectural from the main avenue, as these are situated behind the Heritage of the Heritage Agency. Facilities for tourism historic building. The institution is the property of the and recreation in Merksplas are to be found at the federal Buildings Agency. closely spaced sports fields, the Chapel (events and In addition, 19 private houses are situated museum) and the Large Farm. Both are the property around the prison. With the exception of the house of the municipality of Merksplas. In conjunction with situated north of the penitentiary institution, all Kempens Landschap, a masterplan (2012–2020) was of these are historic prison guards’ and teachers’ developed for the restoration of all the monumental houses. The façades are still clearly visible from the buildings in Merksplas Colony. This plan allows avenues. The garden zones (both sideyard strips and scope for the hotel and catering industry, (rural) backyards) of these houses are protected by hedges. accommodation, youth activities, agriculture or The houses have been given in long-term leasehold to agriculture-related functions, recreation and housing. the occupants. The recreational functions should not exceed the capacity of the area and should be ‘tailor-made for Currently, Merksplas Colony is used for agriculture, the Colony’. Various walking, horseriding and cycling nature, tourism, recreation, community facilities, routes run through the area. Other areas should allow housing and economic activities. Agriculture is shared tourist and recreational use. practised by farmers from the area who have land on The community facilities include the prison in lease. According to the ‘organisational and avenue the former beggars’ institution, the cell prison and the management plan (also known as ‘consensus plan’) studios of architect Victor Besme. These are owned by mainly grass and corn are to be grown as animal feed the Buildings Agency and managed by the Ministry of on vacant plots north of the Steenweg op Rijkevorsel Justice. As a result of renovations and modernisations (N131). South of this road, mostly trees are to be carried out over the years, much of the original cachet grown. The nature values are determined on the has disappeared. Most of the roofs were removed, one hand by the alternation of agricultural land, its for example, and the brick walls were repainted. usage, boundaries in the form of plantings, trees, However, the façade of the entrance building of water features and avenues, and the presence of small the former beggars’ institution has retained its landscape elements. On the other hand there are appearance. Elements of the original Dutch period forest areas (in the east) and heaths (in the south) are still present (including the foundation stone), and that date from before the cultivations. The avenue were given a facelift by Besme during the renovation. structure with rows of trees, the water features and Behind this entrance building, industrial buildings the moat around the Colony determine the structure are situated where prisoners were employed. Any of the landscape. These nature values, landscape future renovations should not damage the protected and cultural heritage values are protected under the buildings. Parts of the protected buildings and, for provisions of the protected landscape. In addition, the example, the courtyard are being restored. The area nature values are protected through the designation as also contains a number of buildings which are used ecological infrastructure of supralocal interest. for sporting purposes by guards, for child care and The other functions are situated mainly in the for other support functions. A number of private central part of the Colony. The building stock should companies are situated northeast of the institution. be preserved, and where that is not possible (the This area should not develop into an industrial estate, prison), the link with the original architecture should and activities should preferably benefit the prison or be maintained. Restoration is called for. The buildings other community facilities. 9 Wortel and Merksplas Section colony v and vii ,

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Since 1993, the former dormitories of the beggars’ institution have been in use by the Ministry of the Interior as a reception centre for expelled asylum seekers (illegal immigrants). These buildings, too, have been modernised. New buildings have been added and old façades were repainted. Moreover, a new entrance building was added on the original sight axis between institution and chapel. In the north of the Colony water extraction takes place by the provincial drinking water company PIDPA. In addition, two landfills are situated there for drinking water sludge, of which the southern one is still in use. Apart from this there are two old landfills in the Colony, one for domestic waste and one belonging to the former gas plant. The prisoners’ cemetery is also included as a community facility in the spatial implementation plan. Housing is partly situated within the enclosure of the prison for prison management and staff (45 houses, in part vacant and in disrepair), and partly in a former staff district and along the Steenweg op Rijkevorsel. These houses are owned by the building company ‘De Noorderkempen’ and have been given in leasehold to occupants, whether or not these are employed by the prison of the reception of illegal immigrants, for a period of 99 years. A renovation package is imposed as part of the leasehold. The authenticity and the cultural heritage framework must remain preserved and the houses must be integrated in the landscape. The road structure consists of public roads. The traffic should not exceed the capacity of the area, which may impose restrictions on the functions. Between the Chapel and the Large Farm a communal parking facility is located. Colonies of Benevolence

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9.3 Safeguarding in legal and policy frameworks

9.3.1 LEGAL AND POLICY endeavoured to achieve consistency in the contents of FRAMEWORKS WORTEL AND the plans and to synchronise the terms of the plans. MERKSPLAS

In respect of Wortel Colony and Merksplas Colony, 9.3.2 THE FLEMISH REGION different governing authorities in Belgium have taken decisions regarding the protection of the values of the In 1999, the Flemish Minister for the Environment heritage. The attributes are safeguarded through both and Employment issued the ‘decree on the definitive the protection regime of the spatial policy and that protection as landscape’ in respect of both the State of the monument policy, independent of the current Benevolence Colony Wortel and the State Benevolence application for the granting of UNESCO World Colony Merksplas. In this decree historic, socio- Heritage status. Within the context of the UNESCO cultural, scientific and aesthetic values are specified, World Heritage status there is no need for imposing together with the objectives regarding the future additional requirements on the heritage values of management. The decree emphasises the unique status Wortel Colony and Merksplas Colony. of the areas and the buildings, and stipulates that the The main section is referred to with regard to heritage is to be “preserved in its entirety”. the international frameworks provided by UNESCO. Also by a 1999 ministerial decree the Chapel, the In this section the legal and policy frameworks, Large Farm, the prison buildings between the main plans and regulations applying to Wortel Colony building and the Chapel, the façades and the roofing and Merksplas Colony at regional, provincial and of the main building and the school building were municipal level are dealt with. These plans each granted protection as monument in Merksplas Colony, have their own term. In future, when updating these to which in 2007 were added the quarantine stable, plans and drafting new plans, the OUV will explicitly the stables/workshops, the potato cellars, three open be taken into account. Where possible it will be barns and the storage buildings. 9 Wortel and Merksplas Section colony v and vii ,

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In between both Colonies and in the northern elements, the decrees designate the Colonies as part of Wortel Colony (area running up to the Dutch heritage which is to be “preserved in its entirety”. The border) the Natura 2000 site Heesbossen is located, spatial implementation plans drawn up in subsequent which includes the protected nature monument years all refer to these provisions in the decrees on the Bootjesven. protection as landscape. In addition to these decrees, visions and The Heritage Agency (AOE), which is active management plans have been drawn up. In 1998, within the Flemish Region, prepares and implements the Flemish Land Agency (VLM) prepared the immovable heritage policy. The AOE lists and protects development vision Wortel Colony, and in 2005 valuable buildings, landscapes, archaeological sites the Organisational and Avenue Management Plan and sailing heritage. It supports the immovable for both Wortel Colony and Merksplas Colony. The heritage management (https://inventaris. VLM is also the water authority for the waterways onroerenderfgoed.be/) and carries out policy-oriented in the Colonies. The 2001 plan for the Reparcellation research. The AOE issues (binding) advice in respect Rijkevorsel-Wortel and the 2011 plan for the of interventions affecting the heritage. Reparcellation Zondereigen, which affects Merksplas Colony, were also drawn up by the VLM. In 2013, the Flemish Agency for Nature and Forest produced an 9.3.3 PROVINCE OF ANTWERP integrated management plan for Wortel Colony. These plans refer to the ‘decree on the definitive protection In 2009, the province of Antwerp adopted the as landscape’ and endorse the cultural heritage value Spatial Implementation Plan for Merksplas Colony, of the Colonies, the heritage values and the nature designating the area as “ecological infrastructure of values in the areas, as well as the cohesion of the supralocal interest”. In 2014, this was followed by the landscape and the buildings. Spatial Implementation Plan for Wortel Colony with As a result of this protection as landscape, equal status. Consequently, the province of Antwerp characteristic elements of the Colonies are protected is competent on behalf of both Colonies to further in the spatial plans as well as in the heritage policy. outline the details of the implementation plan, which The orthogonal parcellation of the landscape, is binding for the Flemish Region, the province of the water structure of the (plot) ditches, ditches Antwerp and the municipalities. along roads, fens, the moat of Merksplas Colony, In addition, Kempens Landschap in 2014 the structure and design of the main roads and the produced an integral and integrated Landscape secondary roads (including the avenue plantings, Management Plan for Merksplas Colony, which will front gardens and ‘overtuinen’ – gardens on the other be followed in 2016 by a draft Management Plan side of the road or ditch), the measurement system, Wortel Colony. In these spatial implementation plans the plot boundaries of colony houses, farmlands and and management plans, the protections stipulated forest, the vagrants’ cemeteries, the timber production in the decrees on the protection as landscape are forests as well as the combination of openness (in the incorporated and given concrete expression by the centre of Wortel Colony and the west of Merksplas Flemish Region. Colony), the closed character along the edges (due to Monument Watch Antwerp conducts wooded areas and in Merksplas Colony to the avenue periodic inspections and draws up comprehensive planting along the moat) and the vistas of the Colonies reports with concrete recommendations regarding have been laid down in these. maintenance, restoration and preservation of a In respect of Merksplas Colony the buildings building or interior in respect of which membership have also been laid down in plans/policy as heritage has been applied for. Monument Watch Antwerp and as monument. In addition to the individual is one of the five provincial branches of non-profit Colonies of Benevolence

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organisation Monument Watch Flanders, which aims 9.3.5 WATER MANAGEMENT to encourage the maintenance of valuable historic heritage. Kempens Landschap and the municipality In accordance with the 2003 Flemish Decree on of Merksplas are members in respect of a number of Integrated Water Policy, consultation structures monuments. have been set up by the managers of the waterways in the area. The area of Wortel Colony and Merksplas Colony is part of the River Meuse basin 9.3.4 CITY OF HOOGSTRATEN (Maasbekken), to which the River Basin Management AND MUNICIPALITY OF Plan of the River Meuse 2016–2021 applies. The MERKSPLAS consultation structures ensure the coordination between the managers of the waterways (Flemish In 2004 the city of Hoogstraten, of which Wortel is government, provinces, municipalities) and with part, drew up a Municipal Spatial Development Plan the various sectors, such as nature, agriculture and Hoogstraten. There is also a Mobility Plan (2016, economy. In Wortel Colony and Merksplas Colony, subject to the plan being approved). In 2012, the three non-navigable waterways have been classified municipality of Merksplas adopted the comprehensive as being of the 2nd category (the Staakheuvelseloop, and joint forest management plan for public forest and the Laak or Bolkse Beek, and the Goorloop). These are private forest in the municipality of Merksplas. Here, administered by the province of Antwerp. The other too, there is a Mobility Plan (2001). In these plans, the waterways are not classified and are administered protection as landscape has been incorporated. by the owners, users of the adjacent land or the As yet, the municipality of Merksplas and road authority. In respect of the Colonies, no water the city of Hoogstraten do not have the ambition management measures with spatial consequences to be recognised by the Heritage Agency (AOE) are specified in the River Basin Management Plan of as immovable heritage municipality or to join an the River Meuse 2016–2021 and the basin-specific intermunicipal immovable heritage authority. This components. would provide the municipality/city with additional powers for the protection and management of the heritage, which currently falls within the competence of the AOE. However, these additional municipal powers are not required for the proper protection of these Colonies. The AOE issues advice with regard to municipal permits regarding applications for demolition and for the felling or clearing of woody heritage if these are included in the fixed inventory, receives notifications of archaeological preliminary research involving interventions in the soil, and of the commencement of an archaeological excavation. The AOE also grants permission for any actions in or affecting protected property.

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with the steering group of the World Heritage site Heritage of the World group with the steering co-chairmen The two of Colonies of Benevolence. also members of the steering Landschap are Kempens and the of the city of Hoogstraten The mayors group. as the responsible as well municipality of Merksplas, also members are aldermen of this city/municipality The municipal councils are group. of the steering of Kempens of Directors members of the Board the city/municipality and administratively Landschap, Coordination in the Technical represented are for the Agency Agency, The Heritage Committee. and the Flemish Land Agency and Forest Nature as members and group a seat in the steering have Coordination in the Technical also represented are Committee. Heritage UNESCO as World by recognition Following as in addition to its role Landschap, site Kempens and Merksplas Colony manager for Wortel colony will also act as joint site manager for the Colony, with the in collaboration Colonies of Benevolence, of Drenthe. province

KEMPENS LANDSCHAP AS KEMPENS COLONY MANAGER Organisation Organisation 9.4.1 9.4 Through several members of its Board of members of its Board several Through The board of Kempens Landschap consists Landschap consists of Kempens The board Directors, Kempens Landschap is in direct contact Landschap is in direct Kempens Directors, of two members of the provincial government of government members of the provincial of two as co-chairmen,Antwerp and 65 municipal councils including the of Directors, as members of the Board Merksplas. of municipality the and Hoogstraten of city In 1997, the non-profit organisation Kempens organisation the non-profit In 1997, of Antwerp, the province founded by Landschap was of both retention assignment the with as its first Landschap’s Kempens Colonies in public hands. for areas of these valuable mission is “the preservation ” The objective for now and for later. the community, in scope than in respect is broader of the organisation Colonies: “the acquisition, protection, the two of just of the environment, restoration valuation and required heritage in the and cultural natural landscape, with particular for the attention of Antwerp, province the management, the accessibility and preservation, of the open monuments public opening up to the general in its possession.” Colonies of Benevolence

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After the World Heritage status has been obtained, 9.4.2 TECHNICAL COORDINATION Kempens Landschap will provide the colony manager COMMITTEE and replacement if required. For Wortel Colony and Merksplas Colony, this colony manager controls and In order to coordinate policies and management ensures: of Wortel Colony and Merksplas Colony, Kempens —— Long-term preservation and protection in Landschap has established the Technical accordance with the Management Plan; Coordination Committee. The following are —— Propagating the World Heritage site through represented in this committee: communication, education, knowledge —— Kempens Landschap (chairman); (research and exchange), information, —— Municipality of Merksplas and City of and promotion and marketing; Hoogstraten; —— Ensuring harmonisation, coordination, —— Agency for Nature and Forest (ANB); involvement and interaction with —— Heritage Agency (AOE); the stakeholders, including citizen —— Flemish Land Agency (VLM); participation; —— Building company ‘De Noorderkempen’; —— Ensuring sufficient resources (people, —— Drinking water company PIDPA; knowledge and money) for the —— Two local associations (non-profit organisation implementation of management measures; Save Merksplas Colony and non-profit —— Ensuring the timely detection and identification organisation Convent Hoogstraten). of the effects of developments that might affect the OUV, and adopting They discuss all matters relating to management, appropriate measures; maintenance and development of the Colonies. —— Being prepared for and able to deal with risks Although the Technical Coordination Committee and calamities; itself has no formal power, all government plans —— Ensuring adequate provision of information are discussed in this committee first, prior to being for the purpose of monitoring and adopted by the competent boards. The committee reporting by the countries to UNESCO; adopts opinions in consensus, which ensures that —— Sharing relevant information with the carefully considered conclusions are reached that site management; enjoy broad support. —— Encouraging mutual exchange of knowledge and availability of expertise in the field of spatial quality, so that developments take 9.4.3 PROVINCE OF ANTWERP place with the OUV as starting point, and with the input of knowledge about The province of Antwerp is a member of the steering the heritage and design expertise. group, and two members of the provincial government are co-chairmen of Kempens Landschap. Protection In addition, Kempens Landschap ensures an adequate and management of Wortel Colony and Merksplas contribution to the central programme organisation Colony is delegated by the province of Antwerp to and to the working groups established by that Kempens Landschap. programme organisation. This will be facilitated by the colony manager. 9 Wortel and Merksplas Section colony v and vii ,

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9.4.4 CITY OF HOOGSTRATEN in that connection. The meetings are organised by the EN MUNICIPALITY OF city and the municipality with an open invitation to MERKSPLAS the population. This will lead to a constantly changing group of volunteers with a stable core. Through their administrators, the municipality of Merksplas and the city of Hoogstraten are members of the steering group and of the Board of Directors 9.4.6 OWNERS of Kempens Landschap. They are administratively represented in the Technical Coordination Owners of buildings in Wortel Colony and Merksplas Committee. The municipality/city have licensing Colony and organisations accommodated in these authority in respect of measures implemented in the buildings are directly or indirectly represented in Colonies within the prevailing spatial implementation the Technical Coordination Committee. All the plans. Sectoral plans (mobility, forest management buildings are in public hands. Private individuals and plan) and municipal spatial implementation plans fall organisations have a 99-year lease agreement. within the competence of the municipality/city and should always be in accordance with the provincial spatial implementation plan and the regional decrees (monuments, protected landscape).

9.4.5 PARTICIPATION LOCAL RESIDENTS

Participation of residents of the Colony, neighbouring residents and users of the area and the facilities located there, takes place in two ways. On the one hand it is achieved through representation of the municipalities and stakeholder organisations in the Technical Coordination Committee. On the other hand it takes place through the organisation of information meetings and through a management committee. There is no formal feedback group for Wortel Colony and Merksplas Colony. Whenever there is a topical pretext, Kempens Landschap and the municipality/city will organise information meetings in order to encourage the involvement of the environment and to inform interested parties on progress, for example in respect of the World Heritage nomination and major restoration and adaptive re-use projects. In both Colonies management committee meetings take place twice a year. In these meetings discussions will take place with volunteers and local interested parties about the activities in the area, and agreements will be made on the input of volunteers Colonies of Benevolence

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9.5 Dealing with trends and developments

9.5.1 COLLECTIVE which marks a special aspect of the history of the RESPONSIBILITY FOR Netherlands and Belgium, also for generations to ADEQUATE MANAGEMENT come. The long-term strategy for the management of the seven Colonies is focused on the preservation and the reinforcement of the OUV. The development 9.5.1.1 Common and supported philosophy calls for a strategy in which the ambition consistency of the cultural heritage of the territories is a guiding principle and serves as a source of The Colonies of Benevolence attach great importance inspiration for the sustainable development of to a collective and supported management of these territories. With this in mind, an inspirational the “cultural landscape”. From the start of the document like ‘On Course for the Colony Landscape’ nomination, great effort was put into reaching (Koers op Kolonielandschap) was drawn up in the consensus on the approach and the involvement of early stages of the nomination process. On the basis of local and regional partners as well as the people who early identification, future developments and trends live, work, farm and/or recreate in the landscape, will insofar as possible be translated into a uniform and this will be continued after the recognition. approach, taking into account the differences between The ambition is to also propagate the story about the Colonies and the instruments of both countries. the history from the origins of the Colonies, and the way in which they have developed, and to make this Management measures known and accessible to a wide audience. New measures: The seven Colonies together are necessary —— On the basis of the common interest and the to properly present this history, and the parties realisation that the Colonies collectively are willing to jointly invest in this now and in the tell and visualise the whole story of future, in order to preserve this unique landscape, the history, the parties in each Colony, 9 Wortel and Merksplas Section colony v and vii ,

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coordinated by the steering group and management and the safeguarding of the quality of the site manager, commit themselves to the heritage. The management provides continuity the proper management of the landscape in respect of the input of the local environment and and the representative buildings, and to the input of the specific expertise regarding the maintain, protect and where necessary management and preservation of the quality of the rehabilitate parts of these; heritage. —— With the aim of achieving a uniform approach to developments and trends, experts from Management measures the partner organisations will meet at least New measures: once a year to explore the possibilities —— On behalf of the municipality of Merksplas, in this respect. Possible themes for the city of Hoogstraten and the province the agenda could be the installation of of Antwerp, one colony manager will sustainable energy facilities, and building be appointed, who is employed by in historicising style. Kempens Landschap.

9.5.1.2 Powerful organisation 9.5.1.3 Government management based on collectiveness and protection

The Colonies of Benevolence exercise joint The OUV of the Colonies of Benevolence is coordination and control of the management of safeguarded in the Netherlands and Flanders the seven Colonies. The province of Drenthe and through policies with laws and regulations laid down Kempens Landschap (on behalf of the province in two systems: of Antwerp) act as site holder. Administratively, —— The system of spatial planning for planological a steering group has been set up under which the protection; site holder operates. An Advisory Committee for —— The system of the (immovable) heritage policy; Science, Education and Quality can issue advice —— Besides, the nature values are additionally to the site holder as well as to the colony manager. protected through European legislation The parties represented in the steering group have such as Natura 2000. mobilised financial and human resources for the site management. The site holder ensures the proper In case of unexpected large-scale developments that management of the World Heritage site as a whole. might affect the OUV of the site, a Heritage Impact The site holder initiates the activities that serve Assessment will be carried out. The outcomes of to maintain and improve the quality of the World the HIA will be taken into account in decision- Heritage site, and also facilitates the communication, making processes regarding the location and the coordination, monitoring and periodic reporting. The implementation of the development. colony managers are responsible for the preservation and management of the property, the buffer zone, Management measures and also for managing the effects that may arise New measures: from a larger area of ​​influence. The four visitors’ —— The colony managers and the site manager centres based on one joint concept are developed are charged with the timely identification partly through private initiatives. The Colonies of of developments with a potential impact Benevolence involve owners, users and scientists on the OUV; in the development and implementation of the site Colonies of Benevolence

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—— The colony manager, through Kempens simultaneously with this rehabilitation and the Landschap, ensures proper input from multiannual renovation plan for Merksplas Colony, experts at the annual working meeting of adaptive re-use of unoccupied premises is sought experts focused on the timely identification to fit within the original landscape structures and of developments and trends, and the the history of the Colonies (agriculture/agricultural establishment of uniform measures for the innovation, care, housing, education, detention, protection of the OUV in the light of such recreation). One of the actions taken in this regard developments and trends; is the establishment of a visitors’ centre in the Large —— The Advisory Committee for Science, Education Farm in Merksplas. and Quality will be consulted on developments and trends with a potential impact on the OUV, and where necessary 9.5.2 STATE OF CONSERVATION further investigation will be initiated (HIA). 9.5.2.1 Preservation and management

9.5.1.4 Protection nature values protected landscape and designation monuments Wortel Colony and Merksplas Colony have been In the context of the nomination with regard to designated as protected landscape by the Flemish Wortel Colony and Merksplas Colony, the property Region, and as ecological infrastructure of supralocal almost entirely coincides with the boundaries of interest by the province of Antwerp. These the protected landscapes. Consequently, the core designations provide protection of the nature values values of the OUV are adequately protected. In of these areas. The development vision Wortel Colony, Merksplas Colony the representative buildings are the Organisational and Avenue Management Plans additionally protected on account of their designation for Wortel Colony and Merksplas Colony, as well as as monument. All the buildings are in fair or good the forest management plan of the municipality of condition, or will be restored to good condition. Some Merksplas provide protection of the nature values. of the buildings are included in the masterplan for The Natura 2000 site Heesbossen is located in rehabilitation which is being implemented since 2012. between both Colonies and in the northern part of The status of protected landscape and the Wortel Colony. monument status are laid down in the spatial implementation plans of the province of Antwerp, the city of Hoogstraten and the municipality of Merksplas. 9.5.1.5 Rehabilitation of landscape, This means that developments in the property are nature and buildings always assessed against the cultural heritage values and that in case of construction or demolition a From the beginning of the 21st century, both permit is always required, which is assessed against Belgium and the Netherlands have made large-scale the decree concerning the protection of immovable investments in the preservation and rehabilitation of heritage (onroerenderfgoeddecreet). The Heritage the structure of the landscape and the buildings in Agency issues a binding advice in this connection. the Colonies, based on a long-term vision. In doing so, For Wortel Colony and Merksplas Colony, specific focus is placed on sustainable exploitation and avenue restoration plans are being implemented local businesses appropriate to the cultural heritage in order to reinforce the structure of roads and essence of the territories. In the Belgian Colonies, waterways. 9 Wortel and Merksplas Section colony v and vii ,

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The criteria in respect of the OUV and 1 Establishing accommodation units in the attributes have been further detailed in the context northern stable home; of the nomination as World Heritage site, and are 2 Revitalisation and restoration of the therefore not worded in exactly the same way in historic farm complex around the central the designations as protected landscape, the spatial courtyard, including restoration of the former implementation plans and other policy plans of the cowsheds for accommodation units; city and the municipality. When updating the spatial 3 Restoration and adaptive re-use hay barn implementation plans, the protection of the OUV will and shed, and restoration and adaptive re-use have to be included. quarantine stable; 4 Restoration and adaptive re-use masterplan 2012–2020: the former potato cellars; vagrants’ colony of merksplas 5 Full restoration of the Vagrants’ Chapel, Since 2012, the implementation of a masterplan for as the final step in the restoration campaign; the rehabilitation of Merksplas Colony has been in to be followed by interior restoration and progress. In order to finance this project Flemish, adaptive re-use of the Chapel. provincial and European grants have been and will be applied for. Private partners are also requested to support in the area cooperate in realising the project and to guarantee the There is broad support for obtaining World Heritage day-to-day management and functioning in the long status for Wortel Colony and Merksplas Colony. term. This support is evident from the consensus planning reached in the Technical Coordination Committee The following phases of the masterplan have been of Kempens Landschap and from meetings held with realised or are being implemented: residents of the Colonies and local residents. 1 Completed in 2012: Restoration of the roofs of the Large Farm; 2 Completed in 2014: Restoration of the 9.5.2.2 Management tasks preservation roof and repair of the skylight of the Vagrants’ and management Chapel; Restoration of the façade of the southern stable home of the Large Farm; Restoration of The protection of the attributes is covered the three open hay barns of the Large Farm; by spatial decrees and heritage regulations, the 3 In progress as from 2015: Restoration foundations for which were laid in the designations southern stable home for establishment of as protected landscape. There are no special points visitors’ centre / catering facility (intended of focus. The spatial resolutions issued by other opening spring 2017); Restoration of the governing authorities are under legal obligation to ancillary buildings of the potato cellars for respect the conditions of the protected landscape, and facility for soccer team; Heating, ventilation, air this has been the case in all the relevant spatial plans conditioning, installation of sanitary facilities and management plans of the municipalities and the and electricity, dismantling of pigsties; region. 4 As from 2016: Restoration horse stables; A management task for the site holder and the Development outdoor area: courtyard of the colony manager is to ensure that future spatial plans Large Farm and car park. and management plans will continue to take these conditions into account. For the future (planned up to 2021, start depending on funding) the masterplan covers the following phases: Colonies of Benevolence

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region Management measures Obtaining the status of UNESCO World Heritage Continuation of existing policy: does not in any way change the status of protected —— Ensuring that future spatial plans and landscape which is effective for Wortel Colony and management plans comply with the Merksplas Colony. Both Wortel Colony and Merksplas conditions of the protected landscapes; Colony are included in the Inventory of Architectural —— In case of future updates, spatial implementation Heritage of the Heritage Agency, which can also be plans to be brought into line with examined online. The protection decrees can also protection of the OUV; be consulted via this website. Both Wortel Colony —— Implementation of avenue management and Merksplas Colony qualify for a heritage grant in plans, forest management plans and the respect of management and maintenance. masterplan Merksplas Colony.

province of antwerp From 1996, the province of Antwerp has been the key player in the preservation of Wortel Colony and 9.5.3 FACTORS AFFECTING Merksplas Colony. In that year, the province set up WORTEL AND MERKSPLAS Kempens Landschap, which since then has taken on the management of the Colonies. In this way, 9.5.3.1 Developments and trends the province has safeguarded the preservation and affecting Wortel and Merksplas the management of the Colonies, through actions such as finding appropriate new functions and users In the context of the Management Plan all developments for the buildings and the lands. The province of and trends are identified which now or in the future may Antwerp supports the nomination of the Colonies of affect the OUV of Wortel Colony and Merksplas Colony. Benevolence as World Heritage site, and will continue Per development or trend deemed relevant, a brief to participate in the steering group. In drawing up description is provided and the management tasks and the Provincial Spatial Implementation Plans for both measures to be taken are also dealt with. Colonies, the province has assumed the responsibility for the spatial protection and the protection as business activities immovable heritage. In Wortel and Merksplas the future of the prison and the reception of illegal immigrants in Merksplas are of major importance. The function is expected city/municipality to continue for some time to come. The federal Due to the supraregional interest of Wortel Colony government has indicated that it is in favour of the and Merksplas Colony, the province of Antwerp restoration and revaluation of the existing buildings. is the appropriate authority to draw up the spatial This will lead to modifications to the buildings. The implementation plan. The Flemish Region, the city very long-term future use of the buildings is as yet of Hoogstraten and the municipality of Merksplas uncertain. comply with the provisions of this plan in their Specifically in Merksplas, the current design structural and management plans. and the use of the prison demands attention. The entrance pavilion, which is located on the sight line between the former beggars’ institution and the Chapel, negatively affects the view. Most of the roofs of the prison and the centre for illegal immigrants were removed (with the exception of the entrance 9 Wortel and Merksplas Section colony v and vii ,

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building) and the walls were repainted, as a result New measures: of which the brick ornaments are no longer clearly —— In Merksplas Colony lies a more comprehensive visible. The courtyard of the prison was altered and task, because an appropriate function the workhouses on the prison site were radically must be found and maintained for a larger renovated. In the event of future adjustments these number of buildings. This is included in the aspects can partially be restored. Furthermore, both in multiannual plan/masterplan. It concerns Wortel and in Merksplas vacant staff housing occurs the Large Farm, the potato cellars, the hay within the security perimeters of the prison, and in barn and the scattered farm buildings; Merksplas sheds and warehouses behind the prison —— As regards the industrial area in Merksplas are without user function. Colony, work will take place on the Outside the prison site in Merksplas Colony, redesign and the better integration of there is an industrial area which contains buildings buildings. Usage should benefit the prisons that are considered inappropriate. In Wortel Colony and community facilities. there is a need for reconstruction of sheds north of the vagrants’ farm. housing Traditionally, the Colonies have had a housing Management measures function related to the vagrants’ institution and the Continuation of existing policy: prisons. The houses were in use by management and —— As long as the prisons and the centre for staff, by guards, teachers, the doctors and nurses, illegal immigrants will remain in Wortel etc. Over time, the houses outside the security Colony and Merksplas Colony, measures perimeters were no longer occupied exclusively by are provided for in policy plans and people employed in the Colony. There is a need for management plans. It should be noted that modernisation and in some cases also for expansion the Ministry of Justice and the Buildings of the houses in order to comply with current Agency have primary control in this respect. requirements. Houses within the security perimeters Therefore, the site holder can exercise less are unoccupied. In general there is a development direct influence. This particularly concerns towards increasing urbanisation in the Kempen the restoration (obviously in a safe way) landscape. This also affects the Colonies. The care of the roofs of the prison and the centre facilities in Wortel are in need of additional housing. for illegal immigrants in Merksplas, and a new approach to the function of the labour Management measures buildings in both Colonies; Continuation of existing policy: —— Restoration and revaluation of the prison —— In both Colonies expansion of housing and buildings takes place in consultation with making adjustments is only allowed subject the Heritage Agency; to approval by the Heritage Agency; —— For the other community functions in Wortel —— For Wortel Colony as well as Merksplas Colony, Colony, the spatial implementation plan the spatial implementation plan and the allows for a conference accommodation landscape management plan include around the crossroads, including provisions for the continuance of the complementary and supporting functions. appropriate functions and the maintenance North of the vagrants’ farm, reconstruction of the houses and gardens; of sheds – if sober in appearance – is justifiable. Colonies of Benevolence

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—— In Wortel Colony minor functional adjustments maintaining that situation. Provisions in are provided for in the spatial implemen- the spatial implementation plan to achieve tation plan, in order to ensure better this include the limitation of private parties alignment with current use and the to one per weekend, in one hall around the history, i.e. the designation of the corner central crossroads (Casino or Vagrants’ Schooldreef north-south axis as garden Farm). Low-dynamic rural tourism, the zone and the plot north of the Schooldreef exploitation of a food and beverage facility as agricultural area. and socio-educational functions are allowed under certain conditions in the recreation and tourism buildings around the crossroads, including Much frequented regional cycling and walking the restored Vagrants’ Farm. In and around routes run through the Colonies. In general the the northern sheds sports and games are recreational and tourist use in the Colonies does not allowed, albeit without the creation of put undesirable pressure on the values in the area, infrastructure. In the northwestern part, although some aspects require a degree of regulation. a recreational forest and a bivouac area Occasionally large-scale events take place, such as are allowed, with restrictions (no sanitary horse trials in Merksplas and mountain bike races facilities and infrastructure). in Wortel. In Merksplas the use of sports fields is on the increase, particularly the football pitches. The changing agricultural use new functions of the Large Farm in Merksplas also Agriculture is an obvious component of the use of the focus on recreational and tourist use. In a regional Colonies. In Merksplas, the Large Farm is no longer context, there is a need for the improvement of the an agricultural location. As is the case in Wortel, the recreational connection between the two Colonies. agricultural plots are in use as field plots by farmers from the area. The objective is to maintain the plots as Management measures an open area. On a number of plots maize is cultivated Continuation of existing policy: instead of a low-growing crop. —— In Merksplas Colony, regulation in the field of recreation is focused mainly on the Management measures Large Farm, its centre square, the event Continuation of existing policy: area around the Chapel and the sports —— The preservation of the open agricultural fields. In respect of the sports fields, the land in both Colonies is included in the spatial implementation plan allows youth decree protected landscape and in all recreation and a guest accommodation for the management plans. Agriculture is an young people near the open barns. Guest important function for the preservation accommodation is also allowed in the of the openness of the area. The field plot Large Farm. These functions are important function will be maintained, and low- to reinforce the economic basis for the growing crops will be encouraged. The management of the buildings. Measures will construction or restoration of the wooded focus on maintaining the balance between borders and rows of trees lining the usage and the capacity of the area. The agricultural plots will also be encouraged; transition to the recreational areas will be —— In the heath areas, the aim is to preserve the accentuated with hedgerows; openness. According to the landscape —— The recreational use of Wortel Colony is less management plan, sheep grazing is an pronounced, and measures are focused on effective method in this regard. 9 Wortel and Merksplas Section colony v and vii ,

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New measures: —— In Wortel the maintenance of the crossroads will —— Specifically for Merksplas Colony appropriate be given special attention; use is sought for the quarantine stable, for —— In Merksplas special attention will be given to example a care function. the restoration of avenues in the southern part, through the creation of nature strips, infrastructure and traffic restoration of the original connection The traffic infrastructure in both Colonies is an between the Chapel and the Large essential part of the landscape: together with the Farm (being implemented in 2016) and waterways it contributes to the orthogonal landscape. restoration of the avenue structure west of Due to the ongoing development culminating in the Colony; the current usage, the avenue pattern is no longer —— Public access to the roads in the Colonies will be clearly visible everywhere. Sometimes it is no longer maintained. In accordance with the spatial consistently laid out. Unwanted cut-through traffic implementation plan and the avenue occurs in the Colonies between Rijkevorsel and management plan, the roads can be made Hoogstraten, using mainly the cobbled streets (in low-traffic, provided that their appearance Merksplas Colony the Steenweg op Wortel). The is preserved. Through traffic, and roads are damaged by speeding cars as well as by particularly north-south through traffic, heavy (agricultural) traffic. Walkers, cyclists and will be discouraged in accordance with the horseriders sometimes come into conflict with the spatial implementation plan; motorised (agricultural) traffic. Incidental nuisance is —— Due to the construction of central parking caused by quads, motocross bikes and the like. facilities (with overflow capacity in In recent years, much effort has been put in Wortel), illegal parking along the avenues the prevention of illegal parking along the avenues, is no longer necessary and will be through measures such as the construction of central discouraged. The capacity of the parking parking facilities with overflow capacity. facility will not be extended and a limit is thus imposed on the parking requirement Management measures generated by new functions. Continuation of existing policy: —— Where necessary, the avenue structure will be heritage and archaeology reinforced or restored, and the visibility The developments in the Colonies have affected the will be improved. In both Colonies a heritage values and possibly also the archaeological consistent layout will be applied. According values. Developments are still in progress. to the Avenue Management Plan of the The appearance of the prison in Merksplas Flemish Land Agency, the avenues in open Colony is not satisfactory. In Wortel Colony, areas should remain transparent. The view preserving the unity of the crossroads is important. of the façades from the avenues should not Furthermore, the Large Farm in Merksplas was found be disturbed; to be in disrepair. The Large Farm and the Chapel —— In forests there should be a border between will be rehabilitated on the basis of the masterplan the forest and the row of trees along 2012–2021. Intensive efforts are made to find new the avenue. Where an avenue forms the functions for all the buildings in Merksplas Colony transition from a forest to an agricultural included in this masterplan. area, on the side of the forest a border and a roadside should be preserved or restored. Standard widths apply to these avenues. Colonies of Benevolence

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Management measures in Merksplas and invasive tree species north of the Continuation of existing policy: Torendreef in Wortel. —— In a general sense, the requirements of In Merksplas several obstacles in the sight axes the protected landscapes, spatial are noted. Also specifically for Merksplas, it should implementation plans and management be pointed out that the moat has dried out, and is plans, stipulate that the Colonies as a overgrown and partly filled in, which has caused the whole should be protected, preserved blurring of this line and thus of the boundaries of and managed. This provides adequate the landscape. This moat and the clay pits (including protection of the landscape, the buildings those in Wortel) are contaminated; in the case of the and the current usage functions; clay pits mainly through storage of sludge from the —— In addition, the preservation and maintenance water extraction and through domestic waste in the of both beggars’ cemeteries is categorically past. The forest in both Colonies consists exclusively stipulated; of coniferous wood, whereas mixed forest would be —— Specifically for Wortel Colony, preserving more appropriate. the unity of the crossroads ‘les quatre In Wortel, the transition from the forest in the bâtiments’ is stipulated; north to the open area is not gradual. In some places —— For Merksplas Colony, management measures the forest edges have become damaged by agricultural are anticipated for bringing back the activities. functional consistency of the judiciary buildings, for restoring the subdivision Management measures with hedgerows or rows of trees on plots Continuation of existing policy: that are not in agricultural use, and for —— Preservation of the compartment landscape of increasing the recognisability of the clay the Colonies as carrier of the structure; pits and the brickworks. New volume can —— Preservation and is possible reinforcement of the be added after the removal of the pigsties; forest zones. In accordance with the decree —— Furthermore, for both Colonies the possibility protected landscape and the landscape of soil research is kept open in order to management plan, this is to be achieved by determine the archaeological values, diversifying towards more natural, mixed, independent of the usual research local and rejuvenated deciduous forest, associated with activities in the soil. while at the same time combating invasive tree species. On the other hand, it is the nature and landscape intention to partially retain the coniferous The landscapes of Wortel Colony and Merksplas forest as a reminder of the forestry from Colony have evolved through two centuries of use. the days of the Colonies. Several cultivation In the landscape, the original parcellation can still relicts and avenues from those days will be clearly perceived. In later phases, construction also be preserved. The nature values which and expansion have always showed respect for exist only as relicts should be restored and the landscape. However, in both Colonies some improved; fragmentation occurred and overdue maintenance is —— The aim is to remediate the contaminated evident in the cultural landscape. This is reflected, for clay pits; example, in the avenue patterns which are sometimes —— A task specifically for Wortel Colony is to interrupted, and a small number of rows of trees that preserve and reinforce the wooded areas have disappeared. In forests and gardens non-native at the outer edges. This also applies to species can be found, such as large conifers in gardens the forest area and the valley of the Mark 9 Wortel and Merksplas Section colony v and vii ,

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River. In the north (part of the Natura 2000 Management measures site Heesbossen) wet and dry tree heaths Continuation of existing policy: are to be restored and redeveloped, and —— In the landscape management plan for across the Colony pools, wells, basements Merksplas, a provision is made for renewed for specific fauna such as salamander, tree use of the canals for dewatering of plots frog, bat, etc. will be created. to stimulate the flow. The moat is to be New measures: cleaned up and the water level of the —— There is a wish to improve the ecological Biesven pond is to be improved; connection between the two Colonies; —— In Wortel, management measures are provided —— For Merksplas Colony a point for attention is the to stop the discharge of waste waters restoration of the sight axes where possible. from buildings into the water of the Both on the east side and the west side there Staakheuvelseloop, and to effectuate is a wish to create forest corridors. Between drainage through a pressure pipeline. the buildings and the forest, restoration of On the other hand, the dewatering of the the heaths could lead to a buffer between agricultural area should preferably take the functions. Landscape grants are place via the Staakheuvelseloop. available for this purpose. The canals and New measures: particularly the embankments of the moat —— In conjunction with the realisation of an in Merksplas should be restored and the environment for certain varieties of banks be cleared. species, new fens and pools should be created. comprehensive water management The comprehensive water management in Wortel cumulation (small-scale Colony and Merksplas Colony focuses on the canals interventions) and the old waterways running through the area. In the course of two centuries, Wortel Colony and Under the above heading of nature, attention was paid Merksplas Colony have developed into what they are to the contamination of the moat in Merksplas Colony. today. The development of the main functions, the This is also important for the management of the landscape and the cultural heritage values have been water quality. Furthermore, there are irregularities in described previously. In addition, it is important to the moat, and walls and bridges are of inferior quality. ensure that the combination of small interventions Some small canals are poorly maintained, some are and the occurrence of concerted developments will incorrectly restored and some have disappeared over not be disruptive. A focal point for these Colonies in the years. There is also cause for concern regarding this connection is the abundance of traffic signs and the water level in the Biesven pond. In Wortel Colony, signposts of different styles and designs. Furthermore the water of the Staakheuvelseloop is polluted by in some places small elements such as streetlights, untreated waste from buildings. In a number of garden fences and partitions have disappeared or waterways, water control works have an undesirable the view of the façades has become restricted due inhibitory effect. to vegetation. Colonies of Benevolence

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Management measures the rise of the average temperature and shifts in the Continuation of existing policy: character of the seasons. Over time, this can lead to —— Traffic signs should obviously comply with changes in species and vegetation. Up till now, this has traffic regulations and rules for the use of not become evident from the forest management plan, public roads. The number of signs could although non-native species that have been present possibly be limited through zoning, making for a long time have been identified. rules applicable throughout the area. It may be concluded that the risks of climate New measures: change for the OUV are properly regulated and can be —— For other signs (announcements of events, considered negligible. signposts to indicate sites and buildings) a house style will be developed and controlled; 9.5.3.3 Natural disasters, calamities —— When granting permits for events this house and risk preparedness style will be referred to. It can also be a determining factor for other objects such The area is not a high risk area for floods or as lighting, fences, etcetera. earthquakes, although strong winds, thunderstorms and hail can cause damage to plantings and buildings. This particularly applies to the avenue planting and 9.5.3.2 Climate change and solitary beeches (part of the original planting). environmental impact For the vegetation and the planting, diseases are a potential threat, for example tree diseases that At local/regional level, climate change is barely threaten certain tree species. noticeable, nor has any environmental impact with a The damages to vegetation and planting can potential influence on the OUV been identified. On be partially compensated by a replanting obligation, a larger scale (see the overarching section) floods in with the exception of tree diseases that lead to the Netherlands and Belgium are considered to be the the extinction of specific species. The damages to most important risk of climate change. In Belgium, the buildings caused by strong winds, thunderstorms and measures to combat the impact of climate change have hail are mostly reparable and are usually covered by been laid down at federal and regional level in the insurance taken out by the private parties who are the Flemish Climate Policy Plan 2013–2020, the National owners of the buildings. Adaptation Strategy 2010 and the National Adaptation Plan (not yet adopted as per 2016). At local level, both dehydration and 9.5.3.4 Impact of recreation and tourism waterlogging occur as a result of climate change. and/or visitors Wortel and However, neither of these constitutes a direct threat, Merksplas because the water management in the area can be properly regulated via the available water sources Wortel Colony and Merksplas Colony are attractive and the control by the Flemish Land Agency. Some landscapes for recreation in the region. So far, this adjustments in the water management have been has not led to major recreational pressure. A campsite described above. The water management utilises the is located in the southern part of Merksplas Colony. waterways which had already been constructed in the The size of the flow of tourists and holiday makers is days of the establishment of the Colonies. limited. Another potential risk for particularly the greenery and the planting in the area is posed by 9 Wortel and Merksplas Section colony v and vii ,

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It is expected that after the nomination there will be on management agreements regarding, for example, a slight increase. A growing number of tourists and landscape elements, and project subsidies in respect holiday makers can be easily accommodated in the of, for example, educational activities with young area. The establishment of a visitors’ centre, catering people). facility with accommodation option in Merksplas As part of the masterplan for the rehabilitation Colony will provide opportunities for the reception of of Merksplas, work has so far been carried out with tourists and holiday makers. the aid of funds obtained through European, Flemish The existing infrastructure, including the and provincial subsidies, adding up to a total of 35 recreational infrastructure of (regional) walking, million Euros. horseriding and cycling routes, is sufficiently generous to accommodate a growing number of tourists and holiday makers. 9.5.5 PROMOTION, INFORMATION AND EDUCATION IN WORTEL Consequently, no negative effects on the OUV are AND MERKSPLAS anticipated as a result of the expected and intended increase in the number of tourists and holiday makers, including day trippers. promotion In recent years, Wortel Colony and Merksplas Colony Management measures have already been propagated through various Continuation of existing policy: promotional activities (brochures, website, route —— For the time being, existing facilities planners for walkers, cyclists and horseriders, etc.) offer sufficient opportunities for the These are available at catering facilities, at guest accommodation of the intended increase accommodations and at buildings accessible to the in the number of tourists and holiday general public. In addition, a Colony app has been makers without a negative impact on the developed for Wortel Colony and Merksplas Colony, OUV to be expected. as a tool for visitors to get to know the Colonies.

information and communication 9.5.4 SOURCES OF FINANCING Information on Wortel and Merksplas can be found on the website Colonies of Benevolence (Koloniën In a number of management plans for Wortel van Weldadigheid – www.kolonienvanweldadigheid. Colony and Merksplas Colony (Organisational and eu) and on the website Kempens Landschap www. Avenue Management Plan, Forest Management kempenslandschap.be/nl/wortel-kolonie and www. Plan, Integrated Management Plan, Landscape kempenslandschap.be/nl/merksplas-kolonie. It can Management Plan, Adaptive Re-use Plan Large Farm also be found on the websites of the province of and Chapel area) different fields of activity have been Antwerp and the city and the municipality. included for which grants may be obtained. Kempens Landschap is a participant in the It is the objective of Kempens Landschap to project “One history, five stories”, which includes obtain recognition of the Colonies as ‘Open Heritage’, the realisation of visitors’ centres in each of the in accordance with the decree concerning the four management units, or clusters of Colonies. The immovable heritage of the Flemish Region. This will realisation of the visitors’ centres is dealt with in a serve to obtain extra funding (such as heritage grants, joint context. In Merksplas Colony a visitors’ centre research grants, subsidies based on collaboration is established in the Large Farm. This visitors’ centre agreements between municipalities, subsidies based is in line with the collective story and presents Colonies of Benevolence

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identical information material ((interactive) panels and brochures) about the origins and the story of the Colonies of Benevolence. The visitors’ centre in the Large Farm focuses on both Wortel and Merksplas, with specific attention being paid to their special history as vagrants’ Colonies. It is the intention to open the visitors’ centre in the spring of 2017.

education In the farm at Wortel Colony, Kempens Landschap offers accommodation to ‘De Bonte Beestenboel’, where schoolchildren can get a taste of the countryside and rural life, to visitors’ centre ‘De Klapekster’, which provides information on nature and the history of the Colony, and to nature museum ‘Jan Spannenberg’, with activities in the field of nature education. A visitors’ centre will soon be opened in the stable home of the Large Farm in Merksplas. This will become the gateway to Wortel Colony and Merksplas Colony, where information about the past and the present of the Colonies will be offered. Furthermore, a private prison museum is established in the basement beneath the Chapel. Section colony v and vii, 9

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MONITORING APPROACH MONITORING In 2008, the municipality of Merksplas, in the municipality of Merksplas, In 2008, 9.6.2 collaboration with Kempens Landschap, appointed a Landschap, with Kempens collaboration of the Large for the restoration architect restoration as part of the masterplan Colony, in Merksplas Farm Watch Monument 2008, and June In May 2012–2021. horse stables, carried out inspections at the Antwerp the the open barns, homes, the stable the cowsheds, barn, the open shed, the the hay stable, quarantine house. potato cellars and a worker’s Interim developments in the area will be monitored will be monitored in the area Interim developments in conjunction with the manager, the colony by Committee Coordination members of the Technical In consultation between and the users in the Colonies. for monitoring the the data required these parties, will Colony and Merksplas Colony in Wortel values be collected and opportunities will be sought to carry contribute to the monitoring which will out research of the area.

RESEARCH AND BASELINE AND BASELINE RESEARCH CARRIED MEASUREMENTS OUT

9.6.1

9.6 Monitoring In the context of the nomination, research has been of the nomination, research In the context and their integrity and conducted into the Colonies, The attributes been established. authenticity have (see section 1.2 and chapter 2 been inventoried have of the nomination file). Details on the subject of monitoring are provided provided Details on the subject of monitoring are in this section it is in the main section. Therefore, sufficient to point out that the colony considered data for the monitoring the manager will provide after the Colony and Merksplas Colony of Wortel has been obtained. status Heritage UNESCO World with the agreements manager will make The colony about the supply of and Merksplas parties in Wortel if and will initiate research information the required monitoring activities Insofar as possible, necessary. will be carried out in conjunction with the data in accordance collection as part of the digital register heritage. on immovable with the decree Colonies of Benevolence

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The timing of scheduled works and the condition of the property are the determining factor in this respect: —— In poor condition: annual reporting; —— Work in progress: reporting no later than 6 months after completion of the work; —— In good condition and no work scheduled in the short term: five-yearly reporting.

A record or progress report will be drawn up in respect of the work carried out, specifying the nature of the activities, location, date, results, including photographic material. 9 Wortel and Merksplas Section colony v and vii ,

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↑ Planted Avenue (J.V.L.)

10 Section Colony VI Veenhuizen Management Plan World Heritage nomination — Colonies of Benevolence Colonies of Benevolence

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10.0 Introduction

The reason for preparing the Management Plan, in progress in order to safeguard the management section Veenhuizen, is that Belgium and the and the development of the World Heritage site. Netherlands have jointly decided to propose to The World Heritage status does not carry with it UNESCO that the Colonies of Benevolence are any additional formal claim on the management nominated for UNESCO World Heritage status. and maintenance of the site, other than that already Veenhuizen is one of the total of seven Colonies of governed by laws and regulations and in management Benevolence founded by the Society of Benevolence and maintenance plans. in the period 1818 to 1825. The drawing up of a Management Plan is an obligatory part of the The municipality of Noordenveld recognises the nomination file to be submitted. outstanding value of Veenhuizen. In this area, a combination of multiple time layers is visibly In compliance with guideline 108 of the Operational present: the landscape pre-dating the Colony of Guidelines of UNESCO, the Management Plan Veenhuizen, the landscape pattern and remains of stipulates how the globally unique significance, the the Colony period under the management of the “Outstanding Universal Value” (OUV), of the Colonies Society of Benevolence, and the further development of Benevolence will be preserved, reinforced and/ of Veenhuizen by the Judiciary. This led the or restored, taking into account the current state, the State to definitely designate the area as protected initial circumstances and the vision on authenticity villagescape on 1 April 2008. The Colony landscape of and integrity. The measures deployed to achieve this Veenhuizen and the existing landscape and cultural objective and the way in which the parties concerned, heritage values as included in the OUV which is to being the governing authorities and other parties be safeguarded, are protected to a great extent on involved with the management of the heritage, the basis of the prevailing plans and rules, and the contribute to it, are central to this section. This municipal instruments ensure that any developments mainly concerns a structured description of activities can be integrated in the landscape well in line with the Section Colony vi, 1010

Veenhuizen 277277 This is the section for Colony VI: the Colony of VI: the Colony This is the section for Colony The Colony of Veenhuizen covers the whole of the covers of Veenhuizen The Colony of the Society of Benevolence. area original cultivation is included in of Veenhuizen A map of the Colony chapter 2. The Management Plan is valid for 10 years and will for 10 years Plan is valid The Management Heritage on the date that the World enter into force out in the nomination carried is obtained. Work status with this phase is insofar as possible in accordance section. Veenhuizen. Veenhuizen. The Management Plan is primarily a self-binding a self-binding Plan is primarily The Management In site. Heritage plan for the site holder of the World in particular those activities the section Veenhuizen, that concern the management of the described are management’). (‘the colony of Veenhuizen Colony Plan the section of the Management In the general the four clusters dealt with. For issues are overarching Wortel Ommerschans, & Parten, of Colonies (Oorden sections separate and Veenhuizen) & Merksplas with specific characteristics, up been drawn have and management measures. developments OUV. The scale of agricultural developments in the developments The scale of agricultural OUV. with the ongoing development landscape is consistent the by function as experienced of the agricultural In addition to of the Colony. the days from area the specific ecological and in parts of the area this, time layers the separate from values archaeological and been respected have area Colony in this present number of buildings in the into account. A large taken been designated as national monument or have area monument. provincial Colonies of Benevolence

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10.1 Outstanding Universal Value

10.1.1 OUTSTANDING UNIVERSAL of the system with free and unfree Colonies, VALUE VEENHUIZEN and encompass the traces of its successes and failures. The experiment is an important step in The property Colonies of Benevolence is nominated the long Western European tradition of care of as ‘Cultural Landscape’. It is a transnational, serial the poor and distinguishes itself by its large scale nomination. The Colonies of Benevolence are and the active role of the State. nominated on the basis of the UNESCO criteria (iii), (v) and (vi). Each criterion is further substantiated on This is reflected in: the basis of a total of eight essential characteristics. 1 The systematic disciplining (labour, These essential characteristics are used for the training and morality) of poor and needy comparative analysis and the definition of the citizens, organised on a national scale; attributes. 2 The building up of self-reliant communities with high-quality facilities; Criterion III: 3 The organisation of a ‘laboratory for better To bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony citizens’ for the existing society. to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared. Criterion V: Be an outstanding example of a traditional The Colonies of Benevolence bear testimony to human settlement, land-use, or sea-use which is an exceptional and large-scale early 19th century representative of a culture (or cultures), or human utopian experiment in social engineering, with interaction with the environment especially when the objective of eradicating poverty through it has become vulnerable under the impact of a system of agricultural settlements. The irreversible change. seven Colonies demonstrate the evolution Section Colony vi,

10 Veenhuizen 279 The joint action of citizens and State in The joint action of citizens and State The landscape of memory with its diverse freedom of religion and the relationship between between and the relationship of religion freedom had The experiment individuals and the State. on the thinking about edification impact a great and social mobility and the role of the masses, and it in that respect, of the State responsibility of the in the development marks an early step the At of social engineering. tradition European to be utopian. the ambition proved same time, the meanings, associative Due to the numerous Colonies earned their place in the collective and Flanders. memory of the Netherlands in: This is reflected 7 on a tackling poverty to approach an innovative partnership. in a public-private national scale, 8 memory meanings in the collective and evolving and Belgium. of the Netherlands The landscape of the Colonies of Benevolence is The landscape of the Colonies of Benevolence unique in that it bears material and authentic witness inspired of the social elite, efforts to the large-scale the early 19th century the Enlightenment, to solve by objective The comprehensive problem. urban poverty hand and on the other of on the one hand self-reliance is labour and training, and discipline through order of in the design and the coherence clearly reflected of the landscape The layout landscape and buildings. model of connected to the organisational is directly with different or unfree, (free Colony the respective a pattern of long have Colonies The free regimes). Colonies while the unfree ribbons with small farms, surrounded institution, a pattern with a central have farms. large by encompasses all three of Veenhuizen The Colony reflection offers a representative criteria. Veenhuizen schedule The following of a number of sub-aspects. a brief outline of the representative presents components. The cultivation and organisation and organisation The cultivation types: model with two The organisational The focus on the maximisation and The Colonies of Benevolence are an exceptional an exceptional are The Colonies of Benevolence as cultivated settlements, series of agricultural “islands” in inhospitable heath and peatland and distinctive The orthogonal structure areas. of the character of the landscape reflect layout hierarchic The strict Colonies. and unfree free the carefully with and dimensioning, structure of buildings and planting, placement considered in the intended influencing of instrumental was The current of the inhabitants. the behaviour extent, the illustrate landscapes cultural of this social the ambition and the evolution experiment. in: This is reflected 4 settlements closed agricultural of extensive and structure hierarchic with a strict out with the aim of working dimensioning, solution on a national scale to an integrated of poverty. the problem 5 was The system Colonies. and unfree free of the poor and groups focused on all the target according based on the belief in progress, needy, forms could be solved. in all its to which poverty 6 productivity the optimisation of agricultural the colonists. by or with events associated or tangibly directly Be with ideas, or with beliefs, with living traditions, of outstanding universal works artistic and literary significance. in poverty experiment The nationally organised took in the Colonies of Benevolence reduction of the elite and the as a social initiative root combined traditional It national government. ethic charity and work like values Christian with the ideas of the Enlightenment, such as the self-reliance, belief in emancipation, makeability, Criterion VI: Criterion Colonies of Benevolence

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III. LANDSCAPE 1. TRADITION DISCIPLINING: 2. SELF-RELIANT COMMUNITIES 3. MINI-SOCIETY FOR ALL OF SOCIAL EDUCATION, CARE, PUNISHMENT DENOMINATIONS ENGINEERING

Evolution: State institutions (Metzelaar) and staff housing: Ribbon village, workshops: Churches and cemeteries: School buildings Morgues ‘Koepelkerk’, Protestant, VI- Barracks Community building 3.1.77 Front buildings Esserheem and Norgerhaven / multifunctional Synagogue, VI-3.1.1.80 Institution building Second Institution accommodation St. Hieronymus Aemilianus Cell building ‘Rode Pannen’ Cluster around ‘Maallust’ church (Catholic) Cell building behind ‘Rode Pannen’ (corn-drying kiln, windmill Rectory, variant type VII Labour institution hull, grain silo, dairy factory, Denominational school, formerly Tied houses: grain and flour warehouse) Roman Catholic church Type II: for State constable, shepherd, Rode Pannen Cluster around the Hospice Cemeteries Type IV/V: Training, ‘Maallust’, ‘Vooruit’, ‘Huis en (Hospice, pharmacy, etc.) Haard’, ‘Controle’, ‘Helpt Elkander’ Workshop ‘De Werf’ (including Type VI: ‘Leering door Voorbeeld’ cooperage, forge, sawmill, Type VII: ‘Humaniteit’, ‘Geestkracht’, ‘Nauwgezetheid’ woodshed, power station, Director’s house ‘Ruimzicht’ (type VII) slaughterhouse) Tied houses for verger, coachman, doctor Cluster around ‘Oud Bergveen’ (‘Toewijding’), pharmacist (‘Plichtgevoel’), cotton mill (cotton mill, steam- Tied house director ‘Klein Soestdijk’ powered cotton mill) Directors’ hotel with caretaker’s house – Excelsior ‘de Villa’

V. LARGE- SCALE 4 . INTEGRATED SOLUTION POVERTY PROBLEM 5. ORGANISATIONAL MODEL 6. AGRICULTURAL INNOVATION CULTIVATION FREE/UNFREE LANDSCAPE

Large-scale landscape with central institutions, Nature Unfree model layout with three Farms with integrated housing landscape: institutions (‘Middenhuisboerderijen’): Waterworks: lock III, VI-3.1.15, lock ‘Vijfde Wijk’, lock II, (farm) Hoeve 1, ‘Florisland’, VI- bascule bridge (farm) Hoeve 2 and carriage (farm) Hoeve 5, including associated premises, potato shed, VI-3.1.32 tm VI-3.1.33 shed,’ Jachtweide’ (Third Institution), VI-3.1.112 to VI- 3.1.116 Distance between the ‘wijken’ is 750 metres; 375 (orthogonal structure); 25 metres (plots, peat cutting lots)

VI. PRECURSOR 7. SOCIAL INITIATIVE ELITE 8. LANDSCAPE OF MEMORY WELFARE STATE

Prison museum, cemeteries Section Colony vi, 10

Veenhuizen 281 the main avenues and their characteristic and their characteristic the main avenues planting; Preliminary phase: the period before phase: the period before Preliminary and phase: cultivation Foundation of the Colonies The further evolution in the unfree institutions Phase of state of and valuation Phase of redevelopment as the main drainage canal and the six as the main drainage to it. parallel ‘wijken’ integrity and authenticity of of integrity and authenticity of Veenhuizen Colony attributes Main road structure and avenue planting, with planting, and avenue structure road Main 1 with the Society of Benevolence, of the arrival heaths and bogs with sporadic undeveloped cultivation; 2 the Society of Benevolence by organisation (1818–1825); 3 1825–1859); roughly in time per Colony; (varying 4 in the free privatisation partial Colonies, in scale in all the Colonies increase and Colonies, after 1859); roughly in time per Colony, (varying 5 the period 1980– from the heritage (starting 1990). Secondary road structure and avenue planting. and avenue structure Secondary road Plot boundaries of the farmlands; canal with the Kolonievaart structure Water — — — — Veenhuizen currently ‘breathes’ the OUV. Virtually Virtually the OUV. ‘breathes’ currently Veenhuizen the OUV is visible and in the area everywhere in of the landscape, in the structure perceptible in certain spatial characteristics, landscape elements, and in the design and the use of in specific objects, materials for the buildings. were of the nomination, the attributes In the context and authenticity. assessed in terms of recognisability observations: This has led to the following of the the structure elements in Recognisable landscape: — In the establishment and the development of the of and the development In the establishment periods can be the following Colonies of Benevolence, recognised: — — —

INTEGRITY AND INTEGRITY AUTHENTICITY 10.1.2 Landscape: Buildings: Landscape of memory: Typology: Characteristics Veenhuizen Veenhuizen Characteristics to OUV in relation in a peat landscape (partly large-scale present), still other Colony, not found in any set up which was farms) and by (surrounded institutions with three of facilities. a core Society with agriculture cultivation peat area, Natural spatial cohesion of landscape, strong and forestry, contrast perceptible planning and architecture, isolated landscape and cultivation; natural between location is experienced. waterworks, phases: and third the first from Mainly institutions, health care, prisons, farms, houses, etc. Strong workshops, facilities, correctional the course in cohesion preserved architectonic – particularly from of ongoing development phase. the third Prison museum, cemeteries. Ongoing development unfree Colony, cultivation Colony, unfree Ongoing development schools and industrial buildings. The Colonies are a are The Colonies buildings. schools and industrial time historic landscape with different living cultural per Colony which the developments through layers, the original path. Everywhere, own their followed have of the landscape and the whole structure cultivation facilities and collective individual of functions, range found. be still can worked, and lived colonists the where The Colonies of Benevolence are cultural landscapes cultural are The Colonies of Benevolence and developed ground, rough of cultivated consisting colonies with a view to eradicating into agricultural and disciplining. training labour, through poverty remain that basic principle and objective today, Until landscape in the orthogonally structured recognisable and with fields and forests, meadows, with avenues, churches, institutions, farms, houses, the characteristic Colonies of Benevolence

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Characteristic of the landscape are: —— The high degree of openness on the open plots of farmlands north of the Hoofdweg; —— The closed character of the forest areas north and south of the Colony; —— The vistas: interaction between open and closed along the ‘wijken’ as a result of the interaction between forest and pasture lands and the vistas offered by the orthogonal road and water structure; —— The measurement system, with the distance between the ‘wijken’ 750 metres, 375 metres in the orthogonal structure and 25 metres for the plots and peat cutting lots.

Characteristic of the buildings are: —— The large number of built objects (184 objects in total) of various scales and sizes, and from different time periods; —— The general cemetery at the Eikenlaan 10 and the Jewish cemetery at the Kerklaan —— The archeologically valuable sites: Third Institution.

Characteristic of the greenery are: —— Monumental greenery of the planting around the three institutions; —— Timber production forests of Bankenbosch/ Florisland and the forests north of Veenhuizen; —— Specific vegetation of the Sterrebos. Section Colony vi,

10 Veenhuizen 283283 Broad outline Broad QUALITATIVE DESCRIPTION QUALITATIVE VEENHUIZEN 10.2.2.1 10.2.2 Veenhuizen was developed by the Society of the Society by developed was Veenhuizen Of all the Colonies of Benevolence, the construction the construction Of all the Colonies of Benevolence, ambitious in size. the most was of Veenhuizen territory of this large context The architectonic in the further development enhanced by was phase. the third Vagrants Colony. as an unfree after 1822 Benevolence accommodated were as orphans and widows as well In institutions. square-shaped large in three there the took over government the Dutch central 1859, of the Society the days but buildings from territory, the target be found. Gradually still can of Benevolence changed (no longer orphans and abandoned groups a and the emphasis shifted towards children) valley north and south of the property and agricultural agricultural and property the of south and north valley of the property. and west east (open) areas

LOCATION AND BOUNDARIES LOCATION

10.2.1 10.2 Veenhuizen of Colony Property; zone. Buffer — — — — is bordered of Veenhuizen of the Colony The property cultivated of Veenhuizen with the area in accordance in the foundation the Society of Benevolence by These boundaries phase of the Colonies (1818–1825). The Colony encompass the attributes of the site. The is located in the municipality of Noordenveld. areas and the surrounding major part of the Colony use and zoning – mainly agricultural a rural have in the south – which is nature partly (Fochteloërveen) landscape rural with the traditional consistent largely the buffer zone around The the Colonies. around landscape and is based on the closed/open property the purpose is to protect Its sightlines. the existing The buffer zone consists the Colony. view of and from bogs/stream and raised of a combination of forests The Colony of Veenhuizen is part of the World of the World is part of Veenhuizen The Colony As such, site Colonies of Benevolence. Heritage of the following consists of Veenhuizen the Colony components: Colonies of Benevolence

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↑ Veenhuizen (VI), Second Institution (J.V.L) Section Colony vi,

10 Veenhuizen 285

53°1'0"N 53°0'30"N 53°0'0"N 52°59'30"N 52°59'0"N 53°5'0"N 53°4'30"N 53°4'0"N 53°3'30"N 53°3'0"N 53°2'30"N 53°2'0"N 53°1'30"N 6°29'0"E 6°28'30"E Huis ter Heide 6°28'0"E Norg Zuidvelde 6°27'30"E 6°27'0"E Westervelde 6°26'30"E 6°26'0"E 6°25'30"E 6°25'0"E 6°24'30"E 6°24'0"E Veenhuizen Een 6°23'30"E 6°23'0"E 6°22'30"E Km. 1 6°22'0"E Property Bufferzone 6°21'30"E 0 CoordinateSystem: RDNew Projection: Double Stereographic Datum: Amersfoort Units: Meter IDENTIFICATION 6°21'0"E M1.8 COLONY 5I — VEENHUIZEN 1:50.000 M1.8 Identification Veenhuizen VI: Colony 1:50.000 Colonies of Benevolence

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prison. From 1875, following new legislation and the raised bogs at Veenhuizen. In 1800, remnants of the reorganisation of the Judiciary, work began on a this were the ‘wijken’ (waterways in peat districts) major construction programme on the site, led by J.F. perpendicular to the Slokkert river, including the Metzelaar, the chief architect of the Judiciary, and his Veenhuizerdijk and the barge canal, the latter son W.C. Metzelaar, in his function of Chief Engineer- constructed in a natural valley. Veenhuizen originally Architect for Prisons and Court Buildings. contained a church and a cemetery. The church Up till the 1980s Veenhuizen was a closed was demolished before 1660, probably due to the enclave, with its own regime and its own rules. Until subsidence and oxidation that occurred in the course that time, on account of agriculture and the numerous of the peat cultivations. In the 17th century the workshops, the judicial village functioned more or cemetery was moved to higher sandy soils. In 1812 it less as an autarkic community. Subsequently, the was still called the ‘Spanish Graveyard’. government withdrew from the management of public roads, agriculture and housing. The Judiciary still the landscape around 1830 operates two prisons in the territory: Esserheem and In 1822 the Society of Benevolence purchased the Norgerhaven. Large parts of the territory became hamlet and peatlands of Veenhuizen in order to the property of different owners and were given new establish an unfree Colony there, similar to the one functions, but the State still owns a great deal of land at Ommerschans. The raised bog was divided into and buildings there. plots and drained through the system of ditches, ‘wijken’ and the Kolonievaart canal. The prisoners made the lands suitable for agricultural use. From the 10.2.2.2 Origins and development raised bogs turf was cut, and the upper layer of the less peaty parts was burnt off. In this way, the natural the landscape around 1800 upper layer disappeared down to the point where the Because of the raised bogs and wet heath, the underlying sand was reached. Following this, the plots landscape around Veenhuizen was not easily were ploughed and made suitable for use as arable accessible and the area was sparsely populated at land or for forestry production. As a result of the the beginning of the 19th century. It was inhabited cultivations, land levels subsided significantly in some by animals like foxes, cranes and vipers, and used by places. inhabitants of the surrounding hamlets to graze sheep, cut turf and grow buckwheat. The northwestern edge Around 1850 the different uses of the cultivation of the peatlands, in the area of the upper reaches of process could be recognised within the orthogonal the Slokkert river, accommodated the remains of the plot structure. Some plots retained a natural character, settlement of Veenhuizen, which originated in the whereas a bit further along wheat was grown. The 14th century. At the beginning of the 19th century, roads along the orthogonal ‘wijken’ and canals were Veenhuizen comprised six buildings for agricultural planted with oak trees (Quercus robur). The agrarian activities and a cemetery. The farms were surrounded supervision was organised from the twenty farms by fields and orchards, and in the river valley hay spread across the Colony. The transport of goods meadows and pastures were to be found. Via dirt took place primarily via the Kolonievaart canal in the roads and paths, Veenhuizen was connected with direction of the Drentse Hoofdvaart canal. the villages of Norg, Westervelde and Een a little bit further north. Although the Colony was ‘rationally’ constructed over and in the heath and peat landscape, the former As early as the 16th and 17th centuries, the first structure of the hamlet of Veenhuizen remained attempts were made at large-scale cultivation of recognisable: the colonial structure of ‘wijken’ Section Colony vi,

10 Veenhuizen 287 10.2.2.4 Landscape pattern 10.2.2.4 Current landscape Current 10.2.2.3 Cultivation was carried out according to a rational to a rational out according carried was Cultivation The basis is pattern, typical of peat cultivations. main canal, the Kolonievaart, a straight formed by Halfway of 750 metres. at intervals with six ‘wijken’ a polder ditch is to the ‘wijken’, parallel that distance, the outer ‘wijken’ from 375 metres exactly situated. At drawn. were of the Colony boundaries the external forms the basis The grid, with multiples of 375 metres, In conjunction with the waterways, of the land use. To in this way. created was pattern road a rectilinear bridges several traffic, and water accommodate road some of constructed, and a number of locks were preserved. remained which have Most of the heaths and peat bogs around the former and peat bogs around of the heaths Most and cultivated been have of Veenhuizen penal Colony was land. The infrastructure agricultural in use as are the addition of roads, through considerably expanded areas and the residential and ditches, ‘wijken’ canals, landscape to the makeable An exception in size. grew located south of Fochteloërveen, area is the nature heath and bog the original wet where Veenhuizen, stream The Slokkert landscape is being preserved. its original character. has retained too, valley, of of the penal Colony the structure Within of the has changed. Most not much Veenhuizen of oaks and beeches planting avenue characteristic most filled in and were Some ‘wijken’ exists. still activity is Agricultural enlarged. of the plots were (maize) and pastures focused mainly on fodder crops and horses. for cows landscape is no longer The original natural but boundaries, within the Colony recognisable and the wet the Oude Norgerwerg such as structures plots offer a glimpse into heath of the northwestern soil also The peaty and wet the landscape of the past. to the pre-colonialrefers past. around 1900 landscape around the As from 1879, the water system was connected was system the water 1879, As from connecting with the barge canal and the former connecting with the barge and the Third the Second Institution dikes; cultivation situated on former farmlands. were Institution Although the raised bog landscape around bog landscape around Although the raised the engulfed by had become increasingly Veenhuizen at Smilde and Haulerwijk, adjacent peat cultivations an autonomous and largely still was Veenhuizen raised bog and in the heath Colony self-sufficient landscape. Farming on the nutrient-poor soil turned out to on the nutrient-poor Farming and after failed rye yields, insufficient produce was epidemic the Colony and a cholera harvests In 1859 system. the agricultural to reorganise forced the Colony took over Netherlands of the the State of 10,000 then consisted by which of Veenhuizen, The the Society of Benevolence. from inhabitants, The to pasture. partially converted land was arable that consequently became possible herds larger the Moreover, led to higher fertiliser production. to the production agriculture emphasis shifted from for example and deciduous wood, of coniferous of Florisland. The area in the southern expansion as beeches well planted with oaks as were avenues the existing expanded ). The State sylvatica (Fagus them with new replaced and facilities and institutions detention centres. canal and other Frisian with the Haulerwijk took place still of the transport As most waterways. and increased, the importance of the roads water over along the Kolonievaart such as the Hoofdweg roads paved. canal were Colonies of Benevolence

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Veenhuizen was much larger than the The orthogonal basic structure and the Colonies that had hitherto been constructed. On a corresponding block-shaped parcellation are still site measuring ​​over 4,000 hectares, the three large relatively intact. The original dimensioning has institutions were each surrounded by eight colony withstood time, and the existing avenue planting farms. Along the Kolonievaart canal personnel emphasises the spatial pattern. The waterways have facilities were created, which grew into a village. This lost their trade and traffic function. Of the six ‘wijken’ typology – an orthogonally laid out landscape with only the ‘Sixth Wijk’ still exists in its entirety, and part three institutions and a village – is found nowhere else. of the ‘Fifth Wijk’ between the Kolonievaart canal and The distinctive design of Veenhuizen is the Second Institution, with a cross-connection to the systematic and rational, with a directive infrastructure former industrial area. The other ‘wijken’ were largely on which the parcellation pattern is based, and a filled in and subsequently opened up again. Only the strong hierarchical structure with a high degree of ‘Second Wijk’ was virtually completely filled in. variation between open and closed landscape. The Outside the built-up areas, the central part of contiguous buildings embody the principle of the the territory is still characterised by agricultural land ‘total institution’: the imposition of a network of use. The high degree of openness is occasionally authority and power structures in accordance with interrupted by avenue planting and a forest plot. The a closed norms system. As in the other Colonies, forest plots are located mainly at the northern and here too there is a direct relationship between the southern edges of the territory (south of the canal), function and the layout of the site. The spread of where they constitute a transition to the nature the buildings shows the typical pattern of centrally reserves of De Slokkert and Fochteloërveen. They are situated institution buildings, surrounded by the partly timber production forests and partly natural collective farmlands and farms belonging to the raised bogs. institution. Subsequent developments conformed The openness of the outlying area has been to this set-up and enhanced it. Father and son J.F. affected by recent additions such as the new and W.C. Metzelaar made clever use of the existing residential neighbourhoods which were built around structure, and W.C. Metzelaar considerably expanded the Kerklaan within the existing basic structure. An the clustering of functions around the institutions and ammunition depot and a Ministry of Defence office the Reformed church. He also used the positioning of were also added. These are hidden from view by tied houses to reinforce the rectilinear axes. afforestation, but all the same they affect the original Metzelaar also applied a very advanced building openness of the area. Of the 24 institution farms 14 are typology, with for example different types of houses left, virtually all of them post 1890. Hoeve (farm) 7 and each linked to a job level: the more important the several ancillary buildings are older. function, the larger and more distinguished the house. Officials with some standing were given a house with veenhuizen: ensemble first a name. This was a moralising name, which at the institution — norgerhaven same time provided information about the occupant’s The cluster around the now disappeared First profession: ‘Geestkracht’ (Spirit) for the vicar, Institution is dominated by Norgerhaven State labour ‘Waakzaamheid’ (Vigilance) for the superintendent. institution, built in 1884 (replacing Veenhuizen I) Each house was symmetrically structured: in – inside a partly preserved moat – and the adjacent combination with the repetition of the houses this new juvenile detention centre. Norgerhaven was an emphasises the systematic design of Veenhuizen. ambitious project. The symmetry of the buildings The yard planting, too, confirmed the hierarchy: for and the decorations was meant to emphasise the example, a brown beech was planted in the yards of prestige and the power of the State. On the site of the the highest officials. institution itself houses were built, and Norgerhaven Section Colony vi,

10 Veenhuizen 289 veenhuizen: ensemble third veenhuizen: ensemble third institution Along the Hoofdweg important ancillary Along the Hoofdweg the behind this ribbon, around On the grounds also connects with this ribbon, The Kerklaan Along the remains of the former Third Institution, Institution, of the former Third Along the remains a small and somewhat remote demolished in 1925, the of houses and farms is located around group 1839. dating from Stoom, former cotton mill Het factory in Drenthe, steam-powered the first This was are Located nearby a house and B & B. currently house and the farm also the cotton mill director’s 1723 from The farm De Jachtweide Stoomhoeve. of remnant This is the last is also to be found here. the given was It the former hamlet of Veenhuizen. Institution. farm of the Third function of first at the rear. These houses have been adapted for re-use for re-use been adapted These houses have at the rear. accommodate hotel Bitter en Zoet, while and now a spine clinic. The former leprosy the hospital is now also been preserved. have and an ice dome institution located, such as the octagonal Dutch buildings are and the former synagogue (both church Reformed of the Society), the directors’ the days dating from In addition hotel and some houses and farms. now house ‘Klein Soestdijk’, is the director’s there community and the nearby housing, sheltered a meeting accommodation. The shell now building, in the present is still of the original Catholic church (the monument on the Kerklaan national protected of the churches the three school). Consequently, still the Society are by denominations distinguished there. of dairy arose former corn mill, a conglomeration mill Maallust. factory buildings and the grain and the school at its church Catholic with the Roman accommodates a brewery; now Maallust beginning. the In 2010, silo contains a climbing tower. the grain dairy factory became a cheese dairy. historic veenhuizen: ensemble second veenhuizen: ensemble second institution – esserheem This cluster also houses a great many former many also houses a great This cluster This cluster contains a large number of houses. number of houses. contains a large This cluster is in use as a prison. Adjacent to the site a former is in use as a prison. Adjacent Roest’ tied houses – ‘Rust with two labour institution – is Work) for & Zest equals Rust (Rest & ‘Werklust’ a cluster this is now re-use located. After adative is a there Along the canal Judiciary. office of the with a former school. of tied houses ribbon consisting facilities and production buildings, a military buildings, facilities and production with cell block, a slaughterhouse police barracks a information office), the sawmill, a tourist (now and the former with woodsheds, workshop wood turf – with its historical – fuelled by station power to its original fully restored The latter was machinery. of the former On the north side of the rectangle state. after the ‘wijk’ had been filled in Second Institution, and houses lined with high trees arose a wide avenue including the former homes of Metzelaar, designed by and the doctor of the hospital situated the pharmacist The houses for officials reflect a clear building The houses for officials to emphasise This not only served typology and style. but also patients and staff, between the hierarchy The many echelons. the higher and lower between en edifying names on the houses for officials (‘Werk One Elkander’ – Help ‘Helpt and Pray, Bid’ – Work and educational to the paternalistic testify Another…) of the Colony. character The very extensive building cluster around the former around building cluster extensive The very and a institutions contains two Second Institution and facility business premises of historical variety dates moat of the Second Institution The buildings. square-shaped The enormous years. the early from at was 1823, dating from metres), x 145 building (145 but fallen into decay, after having rebuilt one stage shape: a single-storey recognisable its it retained Since 2005 this building with a double saddle roof. side of the The east has been the Prison Museum. demolished. Located adjacent to it is was rectangle now 1895, building dating from the new institution at the rear. Esserheem prison, with new extensions The façade is identical to that of Norgerhaven. Colonies of Benevolence

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veenhuizen: individual objects Spread across the outlying area there are still some isolated objects to be found. Their location is related to the functional context of agriculture and forestry. For example, a number of larger farms are located outside the building clusters: Hoeve 8, Hoeve 5, Hoeve 4 and the institution farm ‘Broeningerf’. These are solitary buildings, arranged in a regular pattern in the grid. The Sterrebos, with its star-shaped pattern of paths, dates from the time of increased afforestation owing to a shortage of manpower for agriculture. Located nearby is the general cemetery – also known under the illustrious name of “The Fourth Asylum’ – with different sections for villagers, employees and prisoners or patients. Until 1875, these latter categories were buried anonymously. Between 1823 and 1875 alone, more than 11,000 people were buried here. Protestants and Catholics were buried separately. A bit further down the remnants of the Jewish cemetery are to be found, with only one remaining gravestone. Also worth mentioning are the graves of Belgian war refugees (1914–1918). Section Colony vi, 10

Veenhuizen 291291 STATE 10.3.2 the major part of the Colony 2008, On 1 April of Veenhuizen (property and buffer zone) was of Veenhuizen villagescape on the basis designated as protected Act. Buildings and Historic of the Monuments canal, of the Kolonievaart south of the area Part original which in the part of Fochteloërveen, i.e. intended to be part of the plans of the Society was not included in the was of Veenhuizen, Colony from This deviation villagescape in 2008. protected the boundaries applying to the nomination will be means of adjustment by in the coming years corrected villagescape. of the boundaries of the protected and Science is for Education, Culture The Minister for taking a decision in this respect. responsible

LEGAL AND POLICY LEGAL AND POLICY VEENHUIZEN FRAMEWORKS

10.3.1 Colony VI: Veenhuizen has been included in the VI: Veenhuizen Colony to to with regard The main section is referred frameworks legal and policy legal and 10.3 in Safeguarding laws and regulations of the different Dutch governing Dutch governing of the different and regulations laws The thus ensuring legal safeguarding. authorities, the protection through safeguarded attributes are as monument policy of spatial policy as well regime independent of the UNESCO World policy, and nature of the UNESCO the context Within status. Heritage is no need for imposing there status Heritage World of on the heritage values additional requirements Veenhuizen. UNESCO. by provided the international frameworks plans In this section the legal and policy frameworks, at national, applying to Veenhuizen and regulations dealt with. These are level and municipal provincial when term. In future, their own plans each have the OUV new plans, updating these plans and drafting into account. will be taken Colonies of Benevolence

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The Colony of Veenhuizen is included in the & Planning Act, which will in future regulate the protected villagescape on account of: spatial protection of heritage values, will enter into —— The design as Colony of Benevolence and the force in 2019. The Environment & Planning Act development into closed State labour and offers good opportunities for the integral protection penal institution; of the OUV in areas, and for the integral assessment —— The corresponding spatial layout of the area, of developments. The Act contains separate, generic which is characterised by a systematic and rules regarding the safeguarding of the qualities of a strict hierarchic structure; World Heritage site, and puts the State in a position —— The monumental value of the buildings and to issue instructions to other governing authorities in the special cohesion between function, respect of the safeguarding of the values of UNESCO buildings and parcellation; World Heritage sites. In consultation with the —— The integrity, recognisability and rarity of provinces and municipalities involved, the State will this structure. establish further details of this instructional provision. The objective of this exercise is to ensure consistency In the zoning plan Veenhuizen, the protected in respect of the impact of policies in all the provinces villagescape is translated into a double zoning cultural and municipalities. This will take place in the context heritage. In addition, there are 121 built objects of a consistent framework of agreements, focused on with national monument status (and 13 provincial the adequate safeguarding of the OUV of the Colonies monuments) in Veenhuizen. of Benevolence in all the Dutch municipalities. In On the basis of the designation as protected this context, further agreements will also be made villagescape and/or national monument, the concerning the transition of the prevailing frameworks municipality is obliged to request the advice of (zoning plan) to the future frameworks (environmental the Monuments Committee in case of applications plan), including the period of transitional legislation. for a building permit, a demolition permit, or an The idea is that the current regime of the protected environmental permit. In the protected villagescape, villagescape is the starting point for the further the strictest building regulations apply, in accordance detailing of the instructional provision within the with the Building Aesthetics Policy Document. framework of the Environment & Planning Act, in Consequently, these regulations also apply to those consultation with and upon agreement of the provinces buildings and building structures in the property and municipalities involved. not designated as national monument on the basis The State and the province also have a key role of the designation as protected villagescape and its in respect of the Natura 2000 site Fochteloërveen. The translation into the zoning plan Veenhuizen. Nature Vision 2009 – 2029 was drawn up with regard In the Netherlands, legislation for spatial to this site. In this document the relationship with the planning and heritage is currently being simplified World Heritage site Veenhuizen is emphasised. The and made more integral. The new Heritage Act site has a strict protection regime (N2000). (formerly Monuments and Historic Buildings Act As per 1 January 2017, in addition to the Heritage and other legislation) entered into force on 1 July Act and the Environment & Planning Act, legislation 2016. With regard to the immovable heritage, this Act regarding nature areas will also change. From that focuses on the preservation, the protection and the date, the new Nature Conservation Act will replace restoration of the built or landscaped objects (national the current Nature Conservation Act, the Flora and monuments) and archaeological monuments. Up to Fauna Act and the Forestry Act, and will eventually 2019, the spatial protection of the heritage values be incorporated in the Environment & Planning Act. in the Netherlands will be regulated through the This Act will also contribute to the preservation of the Spatial Planning Act (Wro). The new Environment nature values related to the OUV. Section Colony vi,

10 Veenhuizen 293 identity and spatial quality of the province. The identity and spatial quality of the province. is an inspirational Compass Heritage Cultural which municipalities and initiators of framework account into to take expected are new developments The Compass supports in their planning processes. as designated for heritage structures the cultural and focuses site in Veenhuizen, Heritage the World reinforcement and specifically on the preservation on and orthogonal structure of the hierarchic, and open areas maintaining the alternation between the roads, and the cohesion between complexes, forest and open spaces. areas green buildings, waterways, three This also applies to the spatial pattern of the and the village farms, by surrounded each institutions, canal. In this respect, ribbon along the Kolonievaart policy commitment is of provincial level the highest a sustainable aimed at creating applied to Veenhuizen, balance proper with a spatial and economic basis, In case and development. preservation between wishes to be the province of spatial developments, The at an early stage. in the planning process involved of the to use the consistency expected initiators are heritage as the main pillar for new plans. cultural designated 13 of Drenthe the province In 2009, The provincial Veenhuizen. monuments in provincial monuments (buildings are interest) of supralocal as the national regime subject to the same protection permit an environmental cases In many monuments. for changes to a monument, for which is required to be submitted to the municipality. applications are for the preservation available are resources Provincial monuments. of provincial re-use and adaptive (The image 2017–2020 Memorandum The Culture that in the coming period the states of Drenthe) in the two investment an extra will make province in both Colonies of museums/visitors’ centres Frederiksoord located in the province: Benevolence the the period 2017–2020, For and Veenhuizen. a fixed will receive interest museums of provincial on condition that they amount of subsidy per year, a clear plan specifying their activities in the present concerned. year PROVINCE OF DRENTHE PROVINCE 10.3.3 In addition, the use by the Judiciary of the existing the existing of the Judiciary In addition, the use by of the survival prisons is important for the long-term of the built objects in Veenhuizen. and use structure employer is the largest the Judiciary present, At Custodian In the ‘Masterplan in Veenhuizen. new Construction 2013–2018: Agency Institutions property’ and disposal of State penal institution with the outlines a policy for the prisons, the State or whether new construction intention to investigate Esserheem and of the prison complexes renovation is called for. in Veenhuizen Norgerhaven The State traditionally holds an important position traditionally The State of the Judiciary only is the use by Not in Veenhuizen. but at present vital importance for the use of the area, of many a major actor as the owner is also the State The in Veenhuizen. farmlands and forests premises, which is part Agency, Estate Real Government Central Directorate-General for Government of the Central of the of the Ministry and Management Estate Real for is responsible Interior and Kingdom Relations, the management and maintenance of this property. to sell the part of is aim for the coming years Its the use by that is no longer in direct this property and Defence. of Justice Ministries In this way, the protection of heritage (built the protection In this way, and nature areas), archaeology, monuments, and in provincial and its incorporation landscape, plans environmental visions, municipal environmental permits is and will be safeguarded and environmental as the harmonisation with as well in the Netherlands, boards. plans of the water management the water up a Provincial has drawn of Drenthe The province to which 2014), reviewed (2010, Vision Environmental is linked. Compass (2009) Heritage the Cultural policy is focused on the preservation The provincial qualities of Drenthe. key of the and reinforcement that the historic In this connection it is recognised a contributory factor to the are of Drenthe values Colonies of Benevolence

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In the course of the process leading to the definitive —— Creating clarity on ownership, management acquisition of the status of UNESCO World Heritage and maintenance (over the years many site, both museums in the Colonies will receive an ambiguous situations have arisen in respect extra boost. These museums are already collaborating, of the transfer of land); also with the visitors’ centres in the other Colonies —— Improving the agricultural structure by means of Benevolence, with a view to increasing the size of of land exchanges, in principle on their audience. a voluntary basis; —— Reinforcing the landscape in accordance The chapter connecting and renewing contains a with the landscape concept outlined detailed description of the Colonies of Benevolence. in the vision ‘Working on the Future of The province of Drenthe has expressed a particular Veenhuizen’, based on the municipal commitment in respect of the Colonies of landscape policy plan; Benevolence and is the driving force behind the —— Improving the recreational accessibility in process to achieve the definitive nomination as the outlying area of Veenhuizen. transnational and serial World Heritage site in 2018. This includes the drawing up of a nomination file As a result of the link with the prevailing spatial and a Management Plan, but also the continued framework and the landscape policy plan of the communication about the programme and the municipality, the OUV is properly safeguarded in involvement of the many partners. At the same time, the context of this land use. The framework of the the province is preparing for the situation following landscape policy plan is the guiding factor in this the decision of the World Heritage Committee (the respect. Moreover, the documents ‘On Course for nomination is on the agenda of the Committee for the Colony Landscape’ and the landscape study the summer of 2018). The province of Drenthe is carried out by the University of Groningen serve as willing to assume the role of ‘site holder’, first point important sources of inspiration for the further plan of contact, in the Netherlands, in conjunction with a development. The safeguarding is also provided for party at provincial level in Belgium. The management in the organisation of the land use, with the land use should ensure good communication between the committee being composed of representatives of Colonies at overarching level. This will in any event the State (Central Government Real Estate Agency), include: harmonisation of the management of the municipality, water board, agriculture/Agricultural individual Colonies, dealing with possible threats to & Horticultural Organisations (LTO) and nature the territories, communication and education, and conservation organisations. the coordination of the monitoring and the reporting obligations to UNESCO. 10.3.4 MUNICIPALITY OF Finally, in January 2016 the Provincial Executive of NOORDENVELD Drenthe adopted the project memorandum on the land use Veenhuizen. The land use will take shape structural vision or within the prevailing spatial frameworks of the environmental vision municipality and the province, and will build on The strategic spatial policy framework for the the vision “Working on the Future of Veenhuizen”, municipality of Noordenveld is currently laid down which in 2011 was adopted by the Board Committee in the intermunicipal structural vision (IGS Leek – Veenhuizen. The land use covers the entire Colony of Roden). Veenhuizen: In 2014, the municipal council of Noordenveld decided to prepare one (new) environmental vision Section Colony vi,

10 Veenhuizen 295 tourism for different target groups; groups; target tourism for different State, the province and the municipality the province State, office in the development will collaborate the basis of their own each on Veenhuizen, The municipality regards responsibilities. itself as the party primarily responsible in developments future for coordinating Veenhuizen. zoning plan veenhuizen The decree on designation as protected designation as protected on The decree indicates per component The table below Improvement, expansion and coordination of and coordination expansion Improvement, Taking into account this vision for the future, the this vision for the future, into account Taking — — Virtually the entire Colony area of Veenhuizen is of Veenhuizen area Colony the entire Virtually zoning plan Veenhuizen the prevailing by covered Vision (2013). On the basis of the new Environmental the municipal zoning plan Veenhuizen Noordenveld, which will (2023 at the latest), will also be reviewed of the boundaries. adjustment involve plan. zoning in the prevailing villagescape is covered and anchors the cultural The zoning plan stipulates is an important and of Veenhuizen heritage values of these values. for the preservation instrument site Heritage elements of the World Structuring The core in a double zoning. been incorporated have in the detailed been anchored of the OUV have values (attachment to the zoning heritage valuation cultural in the regulations thus been established plan)and have and the main structure in the zoning plan. In this way, in the zoning been safeguarded have profiles the cross waterways, roads and of plan, including the profiles also are The secondary structures as the trees. as well in the zoning plan. protected been included in the these have of the OUV how zoning plan. — — while maintaining and increasing (+250) while maintaining and increasing particularly in the judicial employment, sectors with and in craft sectors, and care work; production of pilot projects for new forms of detention of pilot projects or combinations with other sectors; to the character of Veenhuizen: on new of Veenhuizen: to the character be buildings (to locations or in the historic re-use); for adaptive renovated construction of luxury residential of luxury residential construction sheltered accommodation for the elderly, housing for elderly dementia patients and of clinics establishment disabled people, for specialised care; the emphasis on cultural heritage and the emphasis on cultural nature; vision future of veenhuizen The vision provides insight in the opportunities The vision provides of Veenhuizen, development Sustainable Maintaining the prisons, plus the development plus the development the prisons, Maintaining Attracting new business activities appropriate new business activities appropriate Attracting Development of the care sector: new of the care Development Vitalisation of working and living conditions; of working Vitalisation with of tourism and recreation, Reinforcement — — — — — — for the municipality of Noordenveld as a whole. as a whole. for the municipality of Noordenveld the principles This document is intended to provide of on the Future “Working outlined in the Vision interpretation. with a practical (2013) Veenhuizen” the Vision Future of Veenhuizen is intended to Veenhuizen of Future the Vision the parties committed to the preservation provide with inspiration, of Veenhuizen and the development point in this guidance and support. The starting is not only currently Veenhuizen is that respect prison village of the and foremost as the first known so in the future. but that it will remain Netherlands, development forward it puts for Veenhuizen, be spatially these could and it specifies how proposals, heritage value cultural outstanding The translated. of inspiration as a source is defined of Veenhuizen of economic and spatial development for the future spatial vision focuses on the following The the area. the while preserving and economic developments, of Veenhuizen: character and the structure — — — — — — Colonies of Benevolence

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COMPONENT PROTECTION ESTABLISHED IN ZONING PLAN VEENHUIZEN

STRUCTURE OF THE LANDSCAPE

Main road structure and avenue planting Regulated on zoning plan map for main structure, including profiles of roads and waterways, ditto for cross profile of main structure, including the trees. Main structure included in the zoning plan regulations. The profiles are shown on map annexes.

Secondary road structure and avenue Similar to main structure. Zoning road or roads, without planting. planting

Plot boundaries of the farmlands In Veenhuizen this concerns the canals near the three institutions, plus the plots around the Second Institution. Canals around Third Institution zoned as agricultural area with value archaeology 2 (but as part of the land use plan)

Locations of the institution farms The exact locations are not explicitly protected, other than through designated agricultural plots

Water structure Water structure is an integral component of the main and secondary structures

CHARACTERISTICS OF THE LANDSCAPE

Open characteristics The outlying area is zoned as agricultural area, other than arboriculture

Closed characteristics The alternation between agricultural and forest plots is included in the zoning plan map

Vistas Vistas are safeguarded by the main structure and in the profiles

Measurement system Mapped in the zoning plan

OBJECTS

Built objects, partly national monuments Built objects are spatially protected through the protected villagescape status. Protection of (121), partly provincial monuments (13) national and provincial monuments is provided by the Monuments and Historic Buildings Act. In addition, the zoning plan defines characteristic buildings (Ka).

Cemetery The cemeteries are included in the zoning plan; the Jewish cemetery is not.

Archeologically valuable area Part of the zoning plan

GREENERY

Monumental greenery The ‘overtuinen’ (gardens on the other side of the road or ditch) south of the canal have not been included in the zoning plan (Klein Soestdijk and Maallust).

Timber production forests Owned and managed by the Forestry Commission. No separate management regime known on account of history as production forest.

Specific vegetation/cultivars (recreational Owned and/or managed by the Forestry Commission. No separate regime known on account of forest) history as recreational forest. Section Colony vi, 10

Veenhuizen 297 WATER BOARD BOARD WATER NOORDERZIJLVEST 10.3.5 list of monumental trees list of monumental The hydrological set up of the ditch structures set up of the ditch structures The hydrological a number of hydraulic years, In recent The Colony of Veenhuizen is situated in the of Veenhuizen The Colony Noorderzijlvest. Board of the Water management area 2016–2020 Programme Management The Water outlines of the policy of the contains the broad specified The actual activities are board. water no further Of these, and projects. in programmes as yet. been published have detailed versions for attention for the no specific points are There The water management of Veenhuizen. water with in accordance manages the waterways board the management schedules and ensures established under its ownership. of the waterways preservation and on owners In addition, it imposes requirements to the discharge with regard users of other waterways of water. in the is laid down area of the Colony and the drainage board. en Legger) of the water (Keur regulations canal have in the Kolonievaart engineering works at its expense. board the water by been renovated Noordenveld has a list of monumental trees, for of monumental trees, has a list Noordenveld in the stock the purpose of maintaining the tree by protected are The trees municipality in the future. the selective maintenance and by carrying out active number A large felling applications. assessment of tree included on the list. are in Veenhuizen of trees (part ofConsequently, planting along the ) the avenue which is designated as attribute in the structure road the list. through OUV is protected building aesthetics monument policy The Enforcement Department of the municipality is The Enforcement for the implementation of the municipal responsible which includes national programme, enforcement These are villagescapes. monuments and protected programme. in the enforcement incorporated The municipal building aesthetics policy for The municipal building aesthetics on the basis of the that stipulates Veenhuizen the major part villagescape, designation as protected is subject to a special building aesthetics of the area with the emphasis on the authentic buildings regime, New and the Judiciary. of the Society of Benevolence quality as the existing should take developments point and should not be dominant. The the starting is focused on the preservation policy in Veenhuizen The structure. existing of the and reinforcement are aim is that functional and spatial developments The appearance qualities. in the existing integrated in is safeguarded of the orthogonal parcellation Document and Policy Aesthetics the Building the criteria ‘the buildings are through reinforced situated clearly aligned’ and ‘the buildings are The criterion or perpendicular to the road’. parallel the buildings and around of institution ‘concentration of the spatial design value supports the core church’ and the institutions of farms around with a cluster of the review integral the next the village ribbon. At (2008), Paper Policy Aesthetics municipal Building site will be taken Heritage the OUV of the World into account. No municipal monuments have been designated in been designated in municipal monuments have No objects monumental far the most By Veenhuizen. as national monument (121) protected already are monument (13). The municipality is or provincial of dealing the implementing authority in respect permits for the with applications for environmental objects Valuable monuments. national and provincial spatial enjoy status monumental that do not have villagescape. part of the protected as protection plan stipulates zoning In addition, the prevailing buildings (Ka). characteristic Colonies of Benevolence

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10.3.6 SITE MANAGERS

In 2010, the managing organisations involved (Forestry Commission, Drents Landschap and Society for the Preservation of Nature) have expressed their support for the nomination of Veenhuizen as part of the World Heritage site. Besides, they manage the landscapes of Veenhuizen, and in particular the unique area of Fochteloërveen, within the Natura 2000 frameworks. Section Colony vi,

10 Veenhuizen 299299 A significant part of the built monuments and will agreements In the course of 2016/2017, of the Kolonievaart canal and associated structures such and associated structures canal of the Kolonievaart is the of Drenthe The province as locks and sluices. N919. road of the provincial and manager owner by owned facilities are and infrastructural some roads which Agency, Estate Real Government the Central properties the of dispose to intention its expressed has task in the accommodation without government principle in this connection The basic coming years. good through is that the ensemble will be preserved also estate real The sale of government stewardship. as a result that will become vacant applies to premises complexes. of prison closure of the future be made with the parties concerned about how estate real the sale of the government to arrange redundant. declared and structures The management of the different concerned. of the owner objects is the responsibility basis using place on a project This sometimes takes and production forests The recreational volunteers. Government the Central by owned are forests the Forestry and managed by Agency Estate Real Commission.

OWNERSHIP AND OWNERSHIP MANAGEMENT

10.4.1 10.4 Organisation The ownership of the road and water structures and water of the road The ownership and built objects varies. A major part of the roads is major part of the roads A and built objects varies. and social the municipality of Noordenveld, by owned cemeteries the facilities such as the sports complex, by theowned and managed station are and the fire the municipality has also Recently, municipality. in 2009 the site of the former some land, i.e. purchased to be in a position to control order in Institution, Third and manager is the owner board that location. The water The agricultural area of Veenhuizen (approximately (approximately of Veenhuizen area The agricultural The Colony hands. in private is largely hectares) 3.100 mainly companies, has 12 agricultural of Veenhuizen (former In addition, some 100 hectares dairy farms. owned currently are Judiciary) company agricultural The Agency. Estate Real Government the Central by of hectares Commission manages about 1.000 Forestry Government the Central by (owned forests production part of the Colony Finally, Agency). Estate Real and part (about 600 hectares) area of built-up consists Estate Real Government the Central by of it is owned and in use as ammunition depot (Defence). Agency Colonies of Benevolence

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10.4.2 MUNICIPALITY OF —— Ensuring the timely detection and identification NOORDENVELD AS COLONY of the effects of developments that might MANAGER affect the OUV, and adopting appropriate measures; Apart from being the owner and manager, the —— Being prepared for and able to deal with risks municipality of Noordenveld is also the competent and calamities; authority and thus as local government responsible —— Ensuring adequate provision of information for for the protection of the OUV through the spatial the purpose of monitoring and reporting by development instruments and monument policy. In the countries to UNESCO; addition, the municipality of Noordenveld, as colony —— Propagating the World Heritage site through manager, is responsible for the Colony of Veenhuizen. communication, education, knowledge The mayor is represented in the steering group of (research and exchange), information, and the Colonies of Benevolence and is the coordinating promotion and marketing. portfolio holder within the municipal executive board. The board is supported by the municipal organisation. In addition the municipality of Noordenveld, via the colony manager, ensures an adequate contribution The municipal organisation also includes the oper- to the central programme organisation and to the ational management (colony management), charged working groups established by the programme with the management of the Colony of Veenhuizen and organisation. (initiating) the realisation of the management measures required. In the nomination phase, the colony manager In the context of the UNESCO nomination, internal performs the supportive activities in the context of coordination consultations Veenhuizen are organised, the nomination of the Colony of Veenhuizen as part of in which the documents relevant to meetings about the World Heritage site Colonies of Benevolence, and the nomination file are shared. It is intended to issues advice in this respect to the municipal council. continue these consultations after the nomination. During the nomination phase and the subsequent The municipal council and the executive board of phase, the municipality is also charged with developing Noordenveld will be briefed annually on the progress visions and plans, assessment, licensing, supervision of the nomination of the Colonies of Benevolence. and enforcement, and the implementation of regula- tions in the protected villagescape. 10.4.3 PROVINCE OF DRENTHE For the Colony of Veenhuizen, after the World Heritage status has been obtained the colony manager On account of its role as preliminary site holder, the controls and ensures: province of Drenthe has a dual position. The province —— Long-term preservation and protection in is also an important partner of the municipality of accordance with the Management Plan; Noordenveld in the preservation and the protection —— Ensuring harmonisation, coordination, of the OUV in that municipality. Municipality and involvement and interaction with province maintain intensive contacts in that respect, the stakeholders, including citizen with explicit attention being paid to the development participation; opportunities of the area. The municipality and the —— Ensuring sufficient resources (people, province each fulfil an autonomous role and position knowledge and money) for the in the nomination file, and this will remain so after implementation of the management the nomination. For the province, obtaining the status measures; of UNESCO World Heritage site is a focal point in Section Colony vi, 10

Veenhuizen 301 FEEDBACK GROUP GROUP FEEDBACK VEENHUIZEN Organisation) Noordenveld; Organisation) 10.4.5 Stichting Veenhuizen Boeit; Veenhuizen Stichting Veenhuizen; Bewonersbelangen Stichting of Nature; Society for the Preservation Commission; Forestry and Horticultural (Agricultural LTO Central Government Real Estate Agency. Estate Real Government Central — — — — — — In the context of the nomination, a feedback group of the nomination, a feedback group In the context and social parties has been set up in which owners participate: — — — — — In this group, parties coordinate plans and decide parties coordinate In this group, the residents to keep required whether meetings are in local involved sufficiently of Veenhuizen together In addition, the municipality, developments. carries out an annual district with WIN and residents, place during which discussion takes bicycle, by survey in public space. improvement for on room — is the chairman of the of Noordenveld The mayor four meetings of the till now Up feedback group. been held during the nomination have feedback group as temporary is regarded This structure phase. a after the nomination by and will be replaced the to be initiated by new consultation structure, municipality of Noordenveld. PARTICIPATION (Foundation Residents’ Interests Interests Residents’ (Foundation of the residents represents Veenhuizen) point as a regular the village and serves of contact for the municipality of Noordenveld; Veenhuizen Captivates) is composed of Captivates) Veenhuizen with the in Veenhuizen, entrepreneurs This emphasis on tourism and recreation. programmes coordinates Foundation In website. its own and hosts and events Info Point. the Tourist addition, it operates 10.4.4 Stichting Bewonersbelangen Veenhuizen Veenhuizen Bewonersbelangen Stichting Besides, the province of Drenthe is also the of Drenthe province the Besides, participates of Drenthe In addition, the province Stichting Veenhuizen Boeit (Foundation Boeit (Foundation Veenhuizen Stichting — — — Since a number of years, regular informal regular Since a number of years, issues facing Veenhuizen consultations on all current the office, the development place between take Estate Real Government the Central municipality, and two the WIN foundation (social work) Agency, i.e.: local foundations, its policy. The province has indicated that after the The province its policy. intends to act as (co-)site it acquisition of this status and in the preservation a leading role holder and play and the implementation of the OUV, the protection serial Plan for the transnational, of the Management landscape Colonies of Benevolence. policy as competent authority for the provincial set out in chapter 3 of the main section of this the this framework, Plan. Within Management is the principal in of Drenthe Executive Provincial use and has designated 13 provincial of land respect of Veenhuizen. monuments in the Colony of the financially in the implementation costs in the the incorporation nomination, and ensures acquisition of the policy of the prospective provincial the Colonies of Benevolence by status Heritage World in 2018. — Colonies of Benevolence

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10.5 Dealing with trends and developments

10.5.1 COLLECTIVE jointly invest in this now and in the future, in order to RESPONSIBILITY FOR preserve this unique landscape, which marks a special ADEQUATE MANAGEMENT aspect of the history of the Netherlands and Belgium, also for generations to come. The long-term strategy for the management of the seven Colonies is focused 10.5.1.1 Common and supported on the preservation and the reinforcement of the ambition OUV. The development philosophy calls for a strategy in which the consistency of the cultural heritage of The Colonies of Benevolence attach great importance the territories is a guiding principle and serves as a to a collective and supported management of source of inspiration for the sustainable development the ”cultural landscape”. From the start of the of these territories. With this in mind, an inspirational nomination, great effort was put into reaching document like ‘On Course for the Colony Landscape’ consensus on the approach and the involvement of (Koers op Kolonielandschap) was drawn up in the local and regional partners as well as the people who early stages of the nomination process. On the basis of live, work, farm and/or recreate in the landscape, early identification, future developments and trends and this will be continued after the recognition. will insofar as possible be translated into a uniform The ambition is to also propagate the history from approach, taking into account the differences between the origins of the Colonies, and the way in which the Colonies and the instruments of both countries. they have developed, and to make this known and accessible to a wide audience. Management measures New measures: The Colonies are aware of the fact that the —— On the basis of the common interest and the collectiveness of the seven Colonies is vital to properly realisation that the Colonies collectively present this history, and the parties are willing to tell and visualise the whole story of Section Colony vi,

10 Veenhuizen 303 Government management and Government protection planological protection; not through delegation) ensure adequate delegation) ensure not through and group in the steering representation office; input in the programme manager is appointed. 10.5.1.3 The system of the spatial planning for The system Management measures Management measures: New or (whether The municipality and the province The system of the (immovable) heritage policy. heritage policy. of the (immovable) The system legislation for spatial In the Netherlands, On behalf of the municipality one colony On behalf of the municipality one colony — — — — The OUV of the Colonies of Benevolence is The OUV of the Colonies of Benevolence national through in the Netherlands safeguarded in two laid down and regulations with laws policies, systems: — a structural basis, and agreements are made about are and agreements basis, a structural the of commitment to the protection each party’s the implementation of management measures, OUV, and the contribution to subjects such as education information, and the management of the property. users owners, involve The Colonies of Benevolence and implementation in the development and scientists of the of the site management and the safeguarding The management provides quality of the heritage. of the input of the local continuity in respect regarding expertise and of the specific environment of the quality of the the management and preservation heritage. — — additionally protected are values the nature Besides, 2000. such as Natura legislation European through being simplified planning and heritage is currently Act The new Heritage integral. and made more Act Buildings and Historic (formerly Monuments on 1 July into force and other legislation) entered heritage is concerned As far as the immovable 2016. the protection the preservation, focuses on this Act — influence. The four visitors’ centres centres The four visitors’ influence. Powerful organisation based organisation Powerful on collectiveness the history, the parties in each Colony, the parties in each Colony, the history, and group the steering by coordinated to commit themselves the site manager, of the landscape management the proper and to buildings, and the representative necessary and where maintain, protect parts of these; rehabilitate to developments and trends, experts from from experts and trends, to developments will meet at least the partner organisations the possibilities explore to once a year themes for Possible in this respect. of the agenda could be the installation facilities and building in energy sustainable style. historicising 10.5.1.2 With the aim of achieving a uniform approach a uniform approach the aim of achieving With — The Colonies of Benevolence exercise joint exercise The Colonies of Benevolence of the management of and control coordination and of Drenthe The province Colonies. the seven behalf of the province Landschap (on Kempens Administratively, site holder. act as of Antwerp) has been set up under which the group a steering Committee for Advisory An site holder operates. Quality can issue advice Education and Science, manager. as to the colony to the site holder as well have group in the steering The parties represented for the site resources mobilised financial and human the proper management. The site holder ensures site as a whole. Heritage management of the World The site holder initiates the activities that serve the quality of the World to maintain and improve the communication, and also facilitates site, Heritage The monitoring and periodic reporting. coordination, for the preservation responsible managers are colony the buffer zone, and management of the property, arise from and also for managing the effects that may of ​​ area a larger partly developed based on one joint concept are In the Dutch Colonies initiatives. private through place on takes consultation with feedback groups — Colonies of Benevolence

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and the restoration of the built or landscaped timely identification of developments and objects (national monuments) and archaeological trends, and the establishment of uniform monuments. Until 2019, the spatial protection measures for the protection of the OUV in of the heritage values in the Netherlands will be the light of such developments and trends; regulated by the Spatial Planning Act (Wro). The new —— The Advisory Committee for Science, Education Environment & Planning Act, which will in future and Quality will be consulted on regulate the spatial protection of heritage values, will developments and trends with a potential enter into force in 2019. In addition to the Heritage impact on the OUV, and where necessary Act and the Environment & Planning Act, legislation further investigation will be initiated on the subject of nature areas will also change as (HIA). per 1 January 2017. From that date, the new Nature Conservation Act will replace the current Nature Conservation Act, the Flora and Fauna Act and the 10.5.1.3 Protection nature values Forestry Act, and will eventually be incorporated in the Environment & Planning Act. This Act will also In the Dutch Colonies, parts of the core zone and contribute to the preservation of the nature values the buffer zone are covered by the Dutch National related to the OUV. Ecological Network, which provides protection of These legislative changes will lead to changes the nature values of these areas. This also applies to in the future instruments to be deployed, which in Fochteloërveen, as a result of which this Colony is principle will be of a more integrated and cumulated emphatically part of a network of protected nature character. In this way, the protection of heritage (built areas. monuments, archaeology, areas), nature and landscape and its incorporation in provincial and municipal Management measures environmental visions, environmental plans and Continuation of existing policy: environmental permits in the Netherlands is and will —— The province of Drenthe focuses its be safeguarded, as well as the harmonisation with the environmental policy on the protection water management plans of the water boards. of the landscape typology and structure. In case of unexpected large-scale developments that might affect the OUV of the site, a Heritage Impact Assessment will be carried out. The outcomes 10.5.1.3 Rehabilitation of landscape, of the HIA will be taken into account in decision- nature and buildings making processes regarding the location and the implementation of the development. From the beginning of the 21st century, both Belgium and the Netherlands have made large-scale investments in the preservation and rehabilitation Management measures of the structure of the landscape and the buildings New measures: in the Colonies, based on a long-term vision. In —— The colony managers and the site manager doing so, specific focus is placed on sustainable are charged with the timely identification exploitation and local businesses appropriate to of developments with a potential impact the cultural heritage essence of the territories. In on the OUV; the Dutch Colonies the emphasis is on the adaptive —— The colony manager of Veenhuizen ensures re-use of unoccupied premises before proceeding proper input from experts at the annual to restoration. The adaptive re-use should be in line working meeting of experts focused on the with the landscape structures and the history of Section Colony vi,

10 Veenhuizen 305 Management tasks Management and management preservation municipality of noordenveld municipality 10.5.2.2 state Because the prevailing protection in the spatial protection Because the prevailing the municipal- of buildings, re-use In the adaptive The task of aligning spatial and heritage visions, policy The task of aligning spatial and heritage visions, and maps with the regulations plans, memorandums, formulations and criteria of the OUV will not lead rules or in the policies, to changes in the prevailing the municipality. by employed currently procedures concerningmaps the OUV, the that ensure to is aim The properly of attributes are the boundaries and the lists management tools of in the prevailing incorporated leading to additional but without this the municipality, partners and stakeholders. for the rules and pressure environmental to be drafted to the as yet This relates concerns It vision and zoning plan and maps. of level which in view of the prevailing adjustments but need not be effectuated immediately, protection when plans, as technical adjustments can be realised or updated. revised and maps are memorandums is plans and the spatial and heritage instruments based on the situation prior to the designation of the the municipality has the formal obligation to OUV, This is anticipated in 2023. update. - the qualities of Veen ity sees opportunities to reinforce prison as the foremost is regarded huizen. Veenhuizen and in the future. now village of the Netherlands, After the World Heritage status has been obtained, status Heritage After the World designate the Colonies of Benevolence, will the State as such, and of Veenhuizen, including the Colony Law on Environmental include the site in the Decree protected (Bor). This is an addition to the existing and villagescape Veenhuizen as protected status of individual objects as national the protection to facilitate the the State This will allow monuments. necessary in preserving site where Heritage World if this also intervene, can while the State the status, of the event in be called for, should unexpectedly or to this status that pose a threat developments infringement of the OUV. an unacceptable constitute Long-term strategy Long-term STATE OF CONSERVATION STATE within the frameworks of the vision of the within the frameworks and of Veenhuizen’ on the Future ‘Working the municipal Landscape Development Plan (LOP). 10.5.2.1 10.5.2 Management measures Management measures: New Implementation of the land use Veenhuizen, For the time being, restoration does not apply in restoration the time being, For — the Colonies (agriculture/agricultural innovation, innovation, the Colonies (agriculture/agricultural In recreation). education, detention, housing, care, been made have investments significant Veenhuizen, of the the visibility and perceptibility in improving re-use adaptive and in finding appropriate landscape, for unoccupied buildings. — Veenhuizen; adaptive re-use in respect of unoccupied in respect re-use adaptive Veenhuizen; This adaptive important role. a more buildings plays should be in line with the landscape structures re-use of the Colonies (agriculture/ and the history education, housing, care, innovation, agricultural detention, recreation). The long-term strategy for the Colonies of strategy The long-term and is focused on the preservation Benevolence The in all the Colonies. of the OUV reinforcement in the quality of life main challenge is to preserve new economic and to find and incorporate the areas calls for philosophy The development incentives. of the cultural in which the consistency a strategy heritage of the territories is a guiding principle and for sustainable of inspiration as a source serves in its Culture Drenthe by as expressed development, Memorandum. Colonies of Benevolence

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Management measures in accordance with the Environmental New measures: Licensing (General Provisions) Act (Wabo) —— Correction by the State of the boundaries of to demolition and renovation of buildings the protected villagescape Veenhuizen, and objects in the area of the protected or by means of an instructional provision villagescape and to buildings with based on the boundaries as included in the (national) monument status; UNESCO nomination file of the Colonies —— Consolidating the position of Veenhuizen as of Benevolence; a component of the core qualities of —— After having obtained UNESCO World Heritage Drenthe in the Environmental Vision status, ratification of this status at State and Cultural Heritage Compass; level by incorporating the boundaries of —— Municipality is – in accordance with status the Colonies of Benevolence in the Decree protected villagescape – obliged to apply on Environmental Law (Bor); the environmental licensing obligation —— In case of renovation: attention from State in accordance with the Environmental parties for careful renovation of the State Licensing (General Provisions) Act (Wabo) properties Veenhuizen; to demolition and renovation of provincial —— After having obtained UNESCO status as World monuments; Heritage site, the province of Drenthe is —— Municipality applies the environmental prepared to take on the role of ‘site holder’, licensing obligation in accordance with first point of contact, in the Netherlands; the Environmental Licensing (General —— The province of Drenthe has designated Provisions) Act (Wabo) to demolition the visitors’ centres in the Colonies as and renovation of national and provincial museums of provincial interest and will monuments; provide these with structural support; —— Implementation of building aesthetics policy —— Drawing up the Environmental Vision with a prominent role for the Colony Noordenveld, with a prominent role for of Veenhuizen; the Colony of Veenhuizen; —— Protection of essential planting in accordance —— Drawing up a new zoning plan based on the with the list of monumental trees; Environmental Vision Noordenveld, with —— The water board manages the waterways in consolidation of the current protection accordance with the provisions of the regime; management plan, (Keur en Legger) —— Adjustment of the boundaries of the Colony of of the water board. Veenhuizen in the Environmental Vision and the zoning plan, in accordance with boundaries nomination file. 10.5.3 FACTORS AFFECTING Continuation of existing policy: VEENHUIZEN —— Attention for the careful sale of the State real estate considered redundant; —— Applying highest level building aesthetics regime 10.5.3.1 Developments and trends to the protected villagescape area and to affecting Veenhuizen national monuments; —— Municipality is – in accordance with status general protected villagescape – obliged to apply The developments and trends in Veenhuizen deemed the environmental licensing obligation relevant to the OUV are described below per theme. Section Colony vi,

10 Veenhuizen 307 Noordenveld and, in line with this, the and, in line with this, Noordenveld plan; of the zoning revision Veenhuizen; municipality on developments building aesthetics policy and on the basis building aesthetics permits. of environmental housing The challenge is to join forces with the largest with the largest The challenge is to join forces In addition, it is important that the spatial measures Management measures: New vision up the municipal environmental Drawing policy: of existing Continuation – – province State consultation Structural Assessment of new developments against the against Assessment of new developments — — — user and employer of Veenhuizen – the Judiciary – the Judiciary of Veenhuizen user and employer while Judiciary of the the objectives – to achieve the maintaining the use of the objects and preserving The broadening OUV within the sites of the Judiciary. appropriate of the economic functions through is another challenge which fits in with re-use adaptive and manager. as owner of the State the retreat in case of new construction, quality (for example the and hence re-use), adaptive and/or renovation is monitored qualities of the objects, heritage cultural This should be focused government. an active by the not only on the objects as such, but also on of the object with its environment. relationship — — In view of the large quantity of real estate becoming estate quantity of real In view of the large anticipated are no new building projects available, (senior groups specific target For in Veenhuizen. whether explored be it will first citizens and starters) property of the existing and the renovation the re-use Some buildings will need to be adapted will suffice. Consequently, to meet modern living standards. of houses cannot be enlargement and/or renovations the assessment against ruled out. This will involve requirements zoning plan and the building aesthetics policy. in the municipal laid down — business activities Over the years, various buildings in Veenhuizen buildings in Veenhuizen various the years, Over Depending on their impact, management measures Depending on their impact, management measures indirect very that are Developments formulated. are etc. are in nature, long-term very that are or weak, will points of concern for the management, but When not lead to specific management measures. potentially relevant occur that are developments site the through manager, to the OUV the colony Committee management, can mobilise the Advisory This Committee Education and Quality. for Science, and is composed of identical has an identical role recent parties to that of the quality team which in cases with in relevant occasionally deployed was years in Veenhuizen. to developments regard have become vacant. Through the efforts of State, the efforts of State, Through become vacant. have re-use successful adaptive and municipality province buildings vacant still are there However, realised. was be found. Growing for which a new use must new companies in the existing companies and/or objects also sometimes impose additional demands on to the causing possible pressure buildings, the existing characteristics. Veenhuizen the future of the prisons plays a very a very of the prisons plays the future In Veenhuizen is Judiciary) (the Government important part. Central (closed Bankenbosch of for the complex responsible reception temporary as a prison, currently in 2014 and for the prison complexes of asylum seekers), A scenario envisaged Esserheem and Norgerhaven. continues the Judiciary is one in which the State by the OUV can be Besides, as a user. to withdraw to the buildings (national adjustments affected by in monuments) to comply with new requirements property, on private of penal institutions respect of The Colony and high rise. such as reconstruction (not characteristic also has some vacant Veenhuizen of which or monumental) judicial objects in respect This is also an excellent considered. is re-use adaptive in of Veenhuizen opportunity to utilise the strength means of appropriate buildings by of the revitalisation the demolition of objects that are and re-use adaptive less compatible with the qualities of the area. Colonies of Benevolence

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Management measures infrastructure and traffic Continuation of existing policy: In recent years, the reconstruction of the provincial road —— Applying municipal building aesthetics policy. N919 was carried out and completed. The municipality has no plans for its roads. Functions that attract traffic, changing agricultural use such as the Prison Museum, are not expected to cause The implementation of the land use Veenhuizen problems related to congestion, accessibility or parking. involves a reparcelling operation which will not lead In the Colony of Veenhuizen multiple small- to requests for a different physical layout. Partly as scale developments will manifest themselves a result of the plot structure dating from the Colony around the realisation of broadband connections, period, the agricultural structure is suitable for management and maintenance of the sewerage efficient agricultural use. Mainly young and viable system and mobile telephony and data (construction agricultural enterprises are established in Veenhuizen. of masts). The masts in particular, but also the boxes Therefore, the risk of unoccupied agricultural in support of the broadband network, will have to be property is limited. Pressure might be experienced in properly integrated in the landscape and spatially, respect of the expansion of the business plots in the and should preferably insofar as possible be placed in course of up-scaling, in which case the companies the Veenhuizen core. The installation of solar panels will have to adhere to the maximum measurements on roofs or on the ground is also a trend. applicable. A tailor-made solution will have to be found in each individual case, with careful integration Management measures in the landscape as the basic principle. New measures: Another development as a result of the —— Consultation with the other Colonies will agricultural up-scaling is the increase in size of take place on how solar panels can be agricultural traffic. The machines and transports incorporated in or near buildings. are acquiring dimensions for which the local Continuation of existing policy: infrastructure is not always suitable (crushed road —— The municipality has no plans to further adjust profiles). This can also cause conflicts with slow and/or extend the local road network; traffic or vulnerable road users (bicycles). This —— New facilities for broadband and masts for issue is also addressed in the context of the land use telephony will be integrated in the Veenhuizen. landscape and spatially.

Management measures heritage and archaeology New measures: The Colony of Veenhuizen has a number of relevant —— Development and implementation of the land archaeologically valuable sites. The most relevant use Veenhuizen, focused on improved of these is the Third Institution. Work is proceeding parcellation and company expansion to make the contours of the Third Institution more and on solving bottlenecks, also in the visible. Near the First Institution, too, there are light of the increased scale and intensity areas with a relatively high expected value related of agricultural traffic in relation to slow to the Colony period. In addition, mainly in respect and vulnerable road users (recreational of the former sand deposit ridges, the archaeological cycling). expectations are relatively high for the period prior Continuation of existing policy: to the founding of the Colony of Veenhuizen. The —— Tailor-made solutions in accordance with the Archaeological Potential Maps are part of the zoning standards prescribed in the spatial policy plan, which serves to ensure that the soil archive will for agricultural plots. not be affected by for example digging or deep tillage. Section Colony vi,

10 Veenhuizen 309 Natural disasters, calamities disasters, Natural and risk preparedness Climate change and impact environmental 10.5.3.3 10.5.3.2 At local level, both dehydration and and both dehydration local level, At Another potential risk for particularly the be concluded that the risks of climate may It A closer analysis of possible calamities identifies only and fires forest Floods, limited risks for the OUV. very a risk factor calamities do not constitute other natural of the the presence However, in this part of Drenthe. implies ammunition depot in the north of the Colony exists hazard a human component risk. An explosion the impact on the However, in this part of the Colony. is limited, because OUV in case of a serious explosion will not be affected the basic landscape structures to and the distance replanting) away, swept (trees to these that damage the built monuments is so large monuments will be modest. At local/regional level, climate change is barely climate change is barely level, local/regional At impact with a environmental nor has any noticeable, potential influence on the OUV been identified. of climate change. occur as a result waterlogging threat, a direct of these constitutes neither However, can be the area management in because the water and sources water via the available regulated properly of the The regulation board. the water by the control place takes currently in the area management water which had infrastructure hydrological the through of the Society of in the days constructed been already Benevolence. is posed by the planting in the area and greenery and shifts in the temperature the rise of the average this can lead to time, Over the seasons. of character changes in species and vegetation. and can be regulated properly change for the OUV are negligible. considered policy, the municipality ensures proper proper the municipality ensures policy, management of the heritage. the land use Veenhuizen. as a guideline for facilitating and serves developments; incorporating area, a replanting obligation applies to the obligation a replanting area, areas. plantings and forest avenue nature and landscape nature Management measures Management policy: of existing Continuation the zoning plan and monument applying By The municipality aims for the preservation The municipality aims for the preservation measures Management measures: New as part of of landscape structures Reinforcement policy: of existing Continuation the zoning plan, the landscape Through On the basis of the timber regulations for the On the basis of the timber regulations — — — — — In the Colony and its vicinity, nature organisations are are organisations nature and its vicinity, In the Colony The developments. on a number of relevant working on is working of Nature Society for the Preservation is expected which of Fochteloërveen, the rewetting years, In recent the OUV of the Colony. to reinforce on the has been working Commission the Forestry at Bankenbosch. of the original structures restoration the and strengthen to restore This has served orthogonal structure. landscapes and of the existing and reinforcement and this has been in the Colony, landscape structures Plan. In principle in the Landscape Policy laid down with developments against protection this will ensure the Moreover, impact on the OUV. a potential negative as part of reinforced actively are landscape structures the land use (WILG). — — — Colonies of Benevolence

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Management measures It concerns small-scale recreational Continuation of existing policy: developments of such a limited order that they will —— In the Netherlands, the responsibility in the not affect the OUV and will not have an impact in event of natural disasters and calamities the sphere of generating traffic. Moreover, the route is delegated to the safety and security structures and parking facilities will be integrated in regions. The Colony area does not require a the landscape well in line with the heritage values, special approach on the basis of the OUV; with the route structures making use of the historic —— The damages to vegetation and planting can paths and structures. These are developments be partially compensated by a replanting that will actually contribute to the prominence obligation, with the exception of tree of the World Heritage site and will enhance the diseases that lead to the extinction of experiencing of it. Where the economy is concerned, specific species; although the World Heritage status will offer new —— The damages to buildings caused by strong economic opportunities in tourism and recreation, winds, thunderstorms and hail are mostly these will remain limited in size. reparable and are covered by insurance taken out by private parties who are the Management measures owners of the buildings. Continuation of existing policy: —— Existing facilities offer sufficient opportunities to accommodate the increase in the 10.5.3.4 Impact of recreation and numbers of tourists and holiday makers, tourism and/or visitors without an expected negative impact on Veenhuizen the OUV.

It is expected that the acquisition of World Heritage status will only lead to a slight increase of recreation 10.5.4 SOURCES OF FINANCING and tourism in the area. Recreation and tourism specifically apply to the Prison Museum as a major attraction and to the smaller locations of Maallust and municipal sources of financing the Hospital complex. In the budget of Noordenveld a reservation is In respect of the Prison Museum the wish to included to cover the process costs for the nomination expand (4th wing) is relevant, and increased activities of the Colonies of Benevolence in 2018. In addition, and traffic are to be expected as a result of the World administrative support is provided relating to the Heritage status. The Museum, the infrastructure and nomination, the participation via the feedback group the parking facilities are tailored to a growing number and the input in the core team and the programme of visitors. A possible growth of events can also be team and preparation of the steering group Colonies accommodated within the currently available capacity. of Benevolence. In case of a rise in the number of visitors, the locations of Maallust and the Hospital complex The budget of Noordenveld does not yet include a are more likely to come across the limits of further structural entry for the period after 2018 to cover development opportunities. This also applies to small- the costs of implementing the measures laid down scale Bed & Breakfast venues in existing buildings in the Management Plan. A budget will in any case that desire interventions in the field of renovation of be required to cover the costs of the programme existing real estate. organisation at overarching level and the process costs for facilitating the feedback group and activities in Section Colony vi, 10

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for the agreed funding of the joint for the agreed and the structural costs organisational the World for the management of costs of level site at the overarching Heritage of Colonies and for the Colony the seven Veenhuizen. sources of financing other parties other of financing sources access to state sources sources state to access provincial sources of financing sources provincial and space) (ver – vision heritage After UNESCO World Heritage status has been status Heritage After UNESCO World In its Culture Memorandum, the province the province Memorandum, In its Culture measures Management provide The municipalities and the provinces In principle the other parties in the area will In principle the other parties in the area for management and costs each bear their own this applies to boards the water For maintenance. management and for the Society for the the water Commission and the Forestry of Nature Preservation to the management and maintenance of the sites and attributes under their ownership. For the maintenance of national monuments, the maintenance of national monuments, For individuals can apply for a management and private loan from or a low-interest (BRIM) maintenance grant Watch Monument and seek advice from the NRF, have VER sources In the nomination phase, Drenthe. stories’. five history, ‘One contributed to the project the State the Colonies of Benevolence, obtained by Law on Environmental will include this in the Decree site in the Heritage a World this, (Bor). Following qualify for VER funding, will in principle Netherlands although this is not guaranteed. The other parties in the area in principle each bear The other parties in the area and maintenance. for management costs their own site managers the province, This applies to the State, board. and the water and boost for an extra has provided of Drenthe of the visitors’ the development regarding investment and in Frederiksoord Colonies of Benevolence centres Veenhuizen. World Heritage site; Heritage World the sharing of knowledge; in connection with the transnational in connection with the transnational serial site; ‘Meeting costs’ for local parties, feedback group; for local parties, costs’ ‘Meeting in and on the of developments Monitoring Investigation of knowledge questions and questions of knowledge Investigation Receiving delegations; Receiving expenditure and subsistence travel Meeting, ‘Window’ for questions and answers; for questions ‘Window’ site. Heritage of the World Local propagation — — — — — — — — — The capacity reserved for the nomination phase up to The capacity reserved nomination and including 2018 will be continued after of 300 hours for the implementation of the at the level In addition, an annual manager. tasks of the colony activities for regular contribution will be required this the time being, management. For of the colony of € of a budgetary burden is based on the premise These for Veenhuizen. of the costs in respect 15.000 to: include contributions costs the field of promotion, information, education and information, the field of promotion, the division of Regarding monitoring and research. parties further the participating between the costs point will be a Starting will be made. agreements in of 10% (€ 15.000) Noordenveld contribution from at organisation of the programme costs of the respect of the Colonies of Benevolence. level the overarching — — — — — incidental resources / projects occasional costs For of the management costs will be claimed. In respect management and for the municipal properties, the municipal in been incorporated maintenance have maintenance plans and management plans for public The costs and greenery). roadsides space (roads, Aesthetics for mobilising the Committee for Building Committee the Monuments and/or and Heritage for the assessment of plans and applications included in are permits, for environmental amounts allocated for implementing the the regular Provisions) (General Licensing Environmental (Wabo). Act Colonies of Benevolence

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Management measures education New measure: The historical value of the Colonies of Benevolence —— The municipality and the province provide the is propagated to a wide audience by means of agreed funding of the joint organisational publications, facilities for remembrance and costs and the structural costs for the family research, events and exhibitions. During the management of the World Heritage site, at preparation of the nomination in 2015, collaboration the overarching level of the seven Colonies was organised to inform the general public about the and for the Colony of Veenhuizen. Colonies. Resulting from this, close collaboration has been established between the Society of Benevolence (Frederiksoord), the National Prison Museum 10.5.5 PROMOTION, INFORMATION (Veenhuizen), Kempens Landschap (Wortel and AND EDUCATION Merksplas) and the Association Ommerschans VEENHUIZEN (Ommerschans). These four parties are setting up visitors’ centres in existing or new facilities, and are producing material for this purpose. The visitors’ promotion centres employ a variety of resources to fulfil their In order to propagate not only Veenhuizen but also function, in the form of printed media, audiovisuals, the Colonies of Benevolence, various promotional exhibitions and events. activities (brochures, website, route planners, etc.) are deployed. For this purpose, the house style must be further developed. The house style will be incorporated in welcome signs, benches, information boards, fences and posts. The responsibility for the promotion lies mainly with local entrepreneurs. The municipality will contribute insofar that this is within the scope of its role and possibilities. It values good collaboration between local entrepreneurs in the field of promotion.

information and communication Information on Veenhuizen is part of the Colonies of Benevolence website and can be found on the website of the municipality. The National Prison Museum is a participant in the project ‘One history, five stories’, which includes the realisation of visitors’ centres in four Colonies. The realisation of visitors’ centres is thus dealt with in a joint context. The objective of the visitors’ centres is to provide the most uniform information possible on all the Colonies.

Section Colony vi, 10 313313 Veenhuizen 10.6 Monitoring Details on the subject of monitoring are provided provided Details on the subject of monitoring are in this section it is in the main section. Therefore, sufficient to point out that the colony considered data for the monitoring of the manager will provide status Heritage after the UNESCO World Veenhuizen manager will make has been obtained. The colony about the with the parties in Veenhuizen agreements and will initiate information supply of the required if necessary. research

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End notes

13 44 prominent buildings do not enjoy 1 Europa Nostra represents some 250 non-governmental municipal monument status. organisations, 150 related organisations and 1500 individual members from more than 50 countries, and focuses on the 14 Five monuments consist of several buildings preservation of Europe’s cultural heritage and landscapes. (stable homes, horse stables, cow sheds, three open barns, sleeping pavilions) 2 Summary National Policy Strategy for Infrastructure and Spatial Planning: http://www.government. 15 Kloosterhuis, 1981, p. 108 nl/issues/spatial-planning-and-infrastructure/ documents-and-publications/publications/2013/07/24/ summary-national-policy-strategy-for- infrastructure-and-spatial-planning.html

3 Study illustrating the effects of an intended (major) intervention on the OUV of the World Heritage site, for the purpose of further decision-making.

4 See also text Oostvierdeparten

5 The Water Boards have not been included in this overview and in principle all use the water management plan as vision document supplemented by implementation instruments (Keur en Legger).

6 On the basis of the landscape types specified in the Landscape Policy Plan, an area classification has been established. Oostvierdeparten and Westvierdeparten are classified as raised bog cultivations. This plan also provides the basis for the municipal felling policy and the application of the timber regulation.

7 The water boards are not included in this overview. In principle, all of them use the water management plan as a vision document, in addition to implementation instruments such as the regulations (Keur en Legger).

8 Horsten, Toon, Landlopers (Vagrants), Amsterdam/Antwerp 2013, p. 68.

9 Inventory of the Architectural Heritage, Canton of Hoogstraten (ID: 126638)

10 Formally they were granted release from their internment as vagrants and were allowed to stay, which meant that they were subjected to the stricter prison regime. Apparently they considered this preferable to life as a vagrant.

11 Formally they were granted release from their internment as vagrants and were allowed to stay, which meant that they were subjected to the stricter prison regime. Apparently they considered this preferable to life as a vagrant.

12 Provided that the numbering of tied houses Veldzicht on Ommerweg and Boslaan is consecutive.

THE COLONIES OF BENEVOLENCE

A significant and large-scale social experiment to reduce poverty through agriculture, launched at the beginning of the 19th century and rooted in the ideas of the Enlightenment.

The cultural landscape of the Colonies of Benevolence testifies to an exceptional undertaking that began two centuries ago in the United Kingdom of the Netherlands, when a group of people who believed in the makeability of man and his environment, with the support of the State, founded the Society of Benevolence. Between 1818 and 1825, the Society established seven agricultural colonies. In these utopian Colonies of Benevolence, impoverished urban citizens could pick up the threads of their lives again. They did this by living in a disciplined pattern of working and learning. Individual freedom was extremely limited. The international interest in the experiment was considerable.

The scale and the impact of this people’s initiative in poverty reduction were – even from today’s perspective – unprecedented: from all corners of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, local committees sent paupers to the Colonies, which were established in uncultivated, sparsely populated parts of the country. In seven years’ time, over 80 km² of rough land was transformed into self-sufficient agricultural colonies with a characteristic appearance: a regular orthogonal pattern of green avenues, waterways, agricultural plots and central facilities. There are free and unfree Colonies. The free Colonies were focused on accommodating families. They have a linear pattern with small farms. The unfree Colonies were focused on the collective accommodation of individuals – vagrants, beggars, orphans – and have one or more central institutions surrounded by large farms.

Notable are the social and educational facilities provided by the Society of Benevolence in each colony – at a time when that theme was still far from commonplace: compulsory education, health care and elderly care. Although the colonists had little freedom of choice, they did have freedom of religion. For the first time, caring for the disadvantaged as well as for ‘elements outside the accepted framework’ was regarded as a collective responsibility of a society.

Today, the various Colonies of Benevolence are still clearly recognisable and are functioning in line with their original reason for existence. In the course of the 19th century, the utopian idealism made way for pragmatism. The idea had been that the colonists would return to society as ‘better citizens’, but in practice this frequently turned out differently. In the unfree Colonies, the focus shifted from combating poverty to dealing with vagrancy, mental health problems and even regular crime. The idea of agricultural work as therapy faded into the background. The free Colonies developed into ordinary villages.

The current cultural landscape of the former Colonies of Benevolence even now distinctly refers to the utopian agricultural colonies that were founded 200 years ago. There is still a high degree of integrity.

In order to safeguard the preservation of these exceptional cultural landscapes, a layered management structure has been set up, from transnational down to local level, supported by a committee of experts.

The Colonies of Benevolence are nominated as World Heritage site on the basis of criteria iii, v and vi.