Beusichem 2010-present
The new country estates Bloemstuiver and ‘t Rijsbosch are part of an area development on the westside of the town of Beusichem in the Betuwe. Most of the site was designated as a potential expansion zone for an existing industrial estate. In stead P15 has advised the owner to combine a small extension of the industrial estate with the construction of two integrated new country estates measuring 22.5 hectares (55.25 acres), the replacement of a burnt-out farm with two new houses, the construction of surface water storage facilities and the inclusion of new walking paths. The total area development is aimed at creating an effective green belt to the west and south of the town.
The planning schemes for such new country estates known as “Red for Green” are aimed at the realisation of more woodland and new wildlife areas by private or corporate initiative. The completion of a minimum of 5 hectares (12 acres) of new nature gives development rights for three large dwellings. Thus 12 new houses will be built in three clusters.
The layout of the new country estates closely follows the geology of the Betuwe river area, with flower meadows, woodland and coppice in the wetter southern section, a central section with more flower meadows, artificial lakes and pools and a higher northern section on a river dune with meadows, hedgerows and orchards. Pre-existing old fruit trees (apple, pear and walnut) were incorporated into the plan. Over 12 hectares (29.3 acres) has been designated as nature in the zoning plan. A new foot bridge connects the paths with the adjacent recreational area and integrates the site in long distance rambling routes.
P15 has advised and managed the whole planning and realisation process from the initial sketches up to construction drawings and planting plans. As part of the extensive planning process a design plan, zoning plan, quality plan, maintenance plan, planting plan, construction plan and public accessibility plan were drawn up. Furthermore, a so-called water permit was obtained from the regional water board to increase the water level in this section of polder.