Quickscan market need for marina Meerstad

In this study, Ecorys considered whether there is a need for the development of a marina on the Woldmeer (Groningen). The study looked at general trends in water recreation and water sports, trends and developments for water sports in the province of Groningen in particular and the need for water sports on the Woldmeer. Based on the analysis, recommendations were made for further developments of the Woldmeer.

Background

In 2005, Groningen municipality started developing a new city district, the Meerstad district. This urban district is located about 9 km east of the city of Groningen and is situated on the Woldmeer. The lake offers opportunities to (further) develop water sports on this side of town. One of the questions is whether there is a need for a marina in Meerstad. This question was previously investigated by Ecorys in 2018. Since 2018, plans for the development of Meerstad have changed. These changes potentially affect the need for a marina. In this new quick scan, Ecorys re-examined the general trends in water recreation and water sports, the trends and developments for water sports in Groningen province in particular and the need for water sports on the Woldmeer. Based on the analysis, recommendations were made for further developments of the Woldmeer.

Key findings

The analysis distinguished between different groups of users of the Woldmeer. For each user group, the extent to which the municipality’s plans are attractive enough to promote water recreation on the Woldmeer was examined. The following conclusions were drawn:

• For passers-by, the lake remains difficult to reach. To get to the lake, two small locks have to be passed and then the holidaymaker arrives at an end lake. Attracting passers-by therefore seems difficult.
• For residents from the surrounding area, especially from the north-eastern part of the city of Groningen, water recreation on the Woldmeer is an attractive leisure activity. Residents elsewhere in the city of Groningen seem to gravitate towards the Paterswoldsemeer more often.
• The largest group of users will come from Meerstad itself. For them, the lake is the closest water. For water recreation to flourish, it is recommended that its development be coordinated with local residents.