Groenlo, NL
Maliebaan Groenlo: future-ready green infrastructure in the historic heart.
A historic fortress site transformed through intelligent green solutions that enhance climate resilience, biodiversity, and the quality of public spaces.
Commissioned by the Municipality of Oost Gelre, idverde NL is redeveloping Maliebaan in Groenlo into a green, multifunctional public space within the historic town moat.
An integrated approach to restoring a historic public space.
Historic town centres require a careful balance between preserving heritage and creating resilient public spaces for the future. At Maliebaan, idverde has brought together landscape design, arboricultural expertise, and construction to deliver an integrated solution that responds to climate adaptation, biodiversity, and the evolving needs of the community. The project brings together heritage, climate adaptation, and biodiversity through an integrated approach that combines landscape design, data analysis, arboricultural expertise, and construction. The result is a future-ready public realm that enhances the historic character of this former fortified town.
Working collaboratively from concept through to delivery, the project includes the creation of a new town moat, the protection of valuable existing trees, and the installation of high-quality growing conditions for both mature and newly planted trees.
To minimise the impact on existing tree stock, a Tree Impact Assessment (BEA) was undertaken, while Green Impact Modelling using Tygron evaluates design options for water management, heat stress, urban greening, and biodiversity. This data-led approach supports informed decisions and ensures the most future-ready outcome.
Wildflower and herb-rich planting, together with seasonal bulb displays, further enhance biodiversity, support pollinating insects, and create an attractive landscape throughout the year.
A resilient public space where heritage, nature, and community thrive together.
The renewed public space provides opportunities for recreation, social interaction, and small-scale community events, creating a greener, more resilient environment where heritage, nature, and everyday life come together. The transformation of Maliebaan demonstrates how historic heritage and sustainable urban greening can evolve together. By combining innovative analysis, arboricultural expertise, and integrated design, the project delivers a resilient public space that is ready for the future while preserving the unique character of this historic setting.
