Van der Ven restores New Dutch Waterline icon

van der Ven B.V. Aannemingsbedrijf has been awarded the contract for the restoration of 9 monumental buildings on the grounds of Fort Honswijk. The listed buildings on the grounds of Fort Honswijk are approximately 150 years old. The bombproof gun tower is even about 175 years old. These buildings urgently need to be refurbished in order to be preserved.

An experienced and passionate restaurateur

Gemeente Houten has awarded the contract to G. van der Ven B.V. Aannemingsbedrijf from Brakel. The Nieuwe Hollandse Waterlinie and Fort Honswijk in particular hold few secrets for Van der Ven. Since 2012, Van der Ven has been working in many ways to transform, consolidate and restore the fort. Van der Ven has also restored other parts of the Nieuwe Hollande Waterlinie, such as Lunet aan de Snel, the Diefdijklinie, Fort near Rijnauwen, Slot Loevestein and Fort near Vechten.

Restoration of an icon

Fort Honswijk is considered by many to be the icon of the New Dutch Waterline, this because of its imposing design and bombproof gun tower. The fort was built between 1842-1848 as part of the New Dutch Waterline. Three times in its existence, the fort was mobilized by Dutch forces. In 1951, the Nieuwe Hollandse Waterlinie lost its function as a defense line.

Sustainable future

During the restoration, broken bricks and bad joints will be replaced, windows, doors and shutters will be repaired, painting work will be done and more work will take place, all designed to restore the buildings to a sustainable future. Work will begin in early September and is expected to be completed October 2021, after which the buildings' continued existence will be guaranteed for future generations.

Energizing and educational journey through restoration

Van der Ven takes anyone interested on an exciting and educational journey through the construction and restoration of the Fort. Interesting activities are being organized for each of the target groups. For example, students in secondary (vocational) education are offered practical work experience placements and excursion days are organized for primary pupils. In addition, passers-by are treated to a Restoration Studio, which is a mobile unit that is incorporated into the walking route and has a view of the work. Finally, open days are organized for families, day visitors and historians.