The Hague presents its own perspective on water safety

The Hague presents its own perspective on water safety

The Hague, the Netherlands, 25 June 2026 - How can The Hague remain safe, liveable and attractive for future generations as sea levels continue to rise? To provide insights in the choices, the City of The Hague has developed a long-term vision for the city's coastline, looking ahead to the year 2100 and beyond.

By establishing its own perspective on water safety and resilience, The Hague is taking a leading role as a local partner in addressing water safety challenges, while recognising that the national government and regional water authorities remain primarily responsible. This approach helps ensure that local ambitions are embedded in regional and national decision-making. The vision connects water safety and spatial planning and will inform future policies and projects related to water management and the coast.

Alderman Nur Icar (Climate Adaptation) said: "The Hague is the only major city on the Dutch coast. That makes us unique. We can be proud of our diverse coastline, which offers space for recreation, businesses, hospitality, nature, sports and tourism. At the same time, our location by the sea brings challenges. It makes us vulnerable to rising sea levels. That is why it is so important to understand how we can prepare for this together with our partners and residents. This future perspective is the starting point for that conversation."

City Behind the Dunes

Sea level rise presents significant challenges, particularly in terms of water safety. In The Hague, the Scheveningen coastline is especially vulnerable because there is limited space to raise and widen the existing sea defences. Unlike other parts of the city's coast, such as the Oostduinpark and Westduinpark, there are currently no dunes that can naturally grow along with rising sea levels.

One promising direction is therefore the ‘City Behind the Dunes’ scenario. Under this scenario, a dune landscape approximately 200 metres wide would gradually develop along the Scheveningen coastline by 2100. This would be achieved through sand nourishment and dynamic dune management.

The dune system would be located seaward of the existing boulevard, while the beach itself would gradually move further out towards the sea. In this way, the coastline can adapt sustainably to rising sea levels. The approach would provide flood protection while also creating opportunities for nature, recreation and biodiversity. To preserve Scheveningen Harbour, technical measures such as a storm surge barrier or lock system may eventually be required.

Next steps

The future perspective is not a fixed plan, but a strategic direction that will be further explored in the coming years to assess its feasibility and effectiveness, alongside other possible measures and combinations of solutions.

The vision was developed in collaboration with experts, government partners, residents and other stakeholders, including the Scheveningen Boulevard Entrepreneurs Association (VBS) and the Association of Beach Operators (VVS).

"It is important to explore how Scheveningen and The Hague can continue to exist safely behind the dunes," said Henk Kool, Chairman of VBS. "For entrepreneurs along the boulevard, maintaining a view of the sea is an important consideration. But doing nothing is simply not an option."

Martin Wörsdörfer, Chairman of VVS, added:

"The Hague must remain a city by the sea, not a city in the sea. It is good that entrepreneurs are involved and will continue to be involved in shaping the future direction. We want to continue welcoming beach visitors in a safe and hospitable environment."

To further develop the vision, the Municipality of The Hague will take an active role in intergovernmental cooperation and discussions with water safety partners. Based on ongoing dialogue with stakeholders and the city, a more definitive course of action will be determined at a later stage.