Samenvatting

De Rotte is the name giver of Rotterdam, but this river keeps a low profile in the identity and present-day urban planning of the city. By elevating the Rotte as a backbone for the development of Rotterdam north, goals, and ambitions in the field of water management, ecology, urban revitalization, and recreation can be raised and met in an integrated manner. From the urban core to the agricultural hinterland a series of waterfronts is articulated and linked to their respective urban settings and green zones, thereby interlocking programs for water management, ecology, recreation, and densification, and strengthening the north-south and east-west connections in the urban fabric. Along the Rotte a policy for slow traffic is introduced to amplify the waterfront capacity and quality of living environment. New urban projects can now be envisaged of an inclusive and diverse nature on different scales, which will reanimate the Rotte as a lifegiving river with meaningful landmarks and connective cultural and recreational playgrounds.