Vakgemaal De Leyens

In the heart of Zoetermeer, nestled within the charming neighborhood of Buytenwegh De Leyens, lies a hidden gem that plays a crucial role in the city's water management system: Vakgemaal De Leyens. This polder pumping station, built in 1977, is not just an essential piece of infrastructure; it's a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of Dutch engineering. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an engineering aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to Vakgemaal De Leyens offers a fascinating glimpse into the Netherlands' ongoing battle with water.

The Historical Significance of Vakgemaal De Leyens

The name De Leyens harkens back to the mid-16th century, referring to the patchwork of land known as 'Die Leyens'. This area, characterized by its irregular parcels of land, has a rich history of land reclamation and water management. Between 1767 and 1771, the region was drained with the help of four windmills, transforming it from marshy peat bogs into arable land. This monumental effort laid the groundwork for the modern-day landscape of Zoetermeer.

Fast forward to the 20th century, and the continued expansion of Zoetermeer necessitated more advanced water management solutions. Enter Vakgemaal De Leyens, a state-of-the-art pumping station designed to maintain the water levels in a designated area of approximately 2250 hectares. Originally equipped with three Archimedes screws, each capable of moving 55 cubic meters of water per minute, the station's capacity was significantly enhanced in 1992 with the installation of a powerful 80 cubic meter per minute pump.

A Marvel of Modern Engineering

Vakgemaal De Leyens stands as a striking example of modern engineering, seamlessly blending form and function. The pumping station's sleek, minimalist design belies the complex machinery housed within. Visitors are often struck by the sight of the Archimedes screws, an ancient invention still in use today, tirelessly working to keep Zoetermeer dry. These screws, named after the Greek mathematician Archimedes, are a marvel to behold, showcasing the timelessness of effective engineering solutions.

One of the unique features of Vakgemaal De Leyens is its peilschaal, a water level gauge located on the west side of the station. This gauge not only indicates the water level on the lower side of the pumping station but also marks the NAP (Normaal Amsterdams Peil), confronting visitors with the startling reality that they are standing several meters below sea level. It's a humbling reminder of the constant vigilance required to keep the Netherlands safe from flooding.

The Role of Vakgemaal De Leyens in Zoetermeer

The primary function of Vakgemaal De Leyens is to pump water from NAP -5.80 meters to NAP -4.00 meters, managing the excess water from the neighborhoods of Driemanspolder, Meerzicht, Buytenwegh, and De Leyens. This water, along with runoff from the Drooggemaakte Grote Polder to the west of Zoetermeer, flows through the city's canals to the pumping station. From there, it is channeled into the Zoetermeerse Plas, a man-made lake excavated in the late 1960s to provide sand for the construction of new residential areas.

The Zoetermeerse Plas, along with the Noordhovense and Benthuizer Plas, serves as a crucial water storage area, capable of holding large volumes of water during heavy rainfall. This system ensures that Zoetermeer remains protected from flooding, even as the city continues to grow. The water from these lakes is eventually pumped out by the Nieuwe Polder pumping station, which discharges it into the Rijnlands boezem, the main drainage system of the Hoogheemraadschap van Rijnland, ultimately leading to the North Sea.

A Recent Renovation

In 2017, Vakgemaal De Leyens underwent a significant renovation to bring it up to modern standards. The open Archimedes screws were covered to reduce noise levels and improve safety, while the electrical systems were upgraded to ensure reliable operation. Additionally, a debris cleaner and collection bin were installed to keep the waterways clear of obstructions. This renovation not only enhanced the functionality of the pumping station but also ensured that it would continue to serve the community for years to come.

Visiting Vakgemaal De Leyens

A visit to Vakgemaal De Leyens offers a unique opportunity to witness Dutch water management in action. The pumping station is easily accessible and provides a fascinating insight into the engineering marvels that keep the Netherlands dry. As you stand beside the powerful Archimedes screws, you can't help but marvel at the ingenuity and determination that have shaped this remarkable country.

Whether you're exploring the picturesque neighborhoods of Zoetermeer or delving into the city's rich history, a stop at Vakgemaal De Leyens is a must. It's a reminder of the delicate balance between land and water and the incredible efforts required to maintain it. So, next time you find yourself in Zoetermeer, take a moment to appreciate the vital work of Vakgemaal De Leyens and the enduring legacy of Dutch water management.