‘Waterwork’ officially opened in the presence of ambassador Bas Smit

With kind words from Gita Gallé, Hanneke de Ridder and, of course, our ambassador Bas Smit, the ‘Waterwork’ was officially put into use on Monday, May 17. By setting up various fundraising initiatives, he made this project financially possible - through the Foundation - together with Nicolette van Dam. City poet Hanneke van Eijken wrote the poem ‘pling pleng plons’ especially for this occasion, which has been permanently displayed next to the Waterwork. This fulfilled a long-held wish for the play and activity garden, a so-called multifunctional ‘Waterwork’. It is intended for children to play in and around together with their brothers and sisters.

Waterwork and memorial site

The Waterwork also serves as a memorial site. An orange heart is visible in the flat water surface. This orange heart symbolizes the motto used during remembrance gatherings, ‘forever in our hearts’. Water also symbolizes everything that flows, life always continues in one form or another, with all the experiences and memories we share.

The Waterwork was designed in consultation with parents and children and realized by the renowned fountain builder Gruppen. Special attention was paid to safety, including legionella prevention and the risk of slipping or falling. During the winter months (Oct-Mar), there is no water, but the lighting in different colors remains in place.