WILLEMSTAD – The revised masterplan for the development of Waterfort Plaza has received a more favorable assessment in an independent Heritage Impact Assessment, which concludes that the updated design is better aligned with Willemstad’s historical and cultural values and UNESCO World Heritage guidelines.
The assessment examined the potential impact of the proposed development on the heritage characteristics of Willemstad. According to the findings, changes made to the masterplan have improved its relationship with the historic surroundings.
The revised plan places greater emphasis on improving public space, strengthening the connection between the area and the sea, and preserving important historical structures.
The assessment is particularly significant because Willemstad’s historic inner city and harbor have been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1997. Major developments within or affecting the protected area must therefore take the city’s Outstanding Universal Value and other heritage considerations into account.
The Waterfort Plaza project has also recently gained international recognition. The revised masterplan has been nominated for the World Architecture Festival 2026.
Residents and other interested parties will have an opportunity to learn more about both the revised design and the findings of the Heritage Impact Assessment during public information sessions on Wednesday, September 16.
Three sessions will be held at 4:00 p.m., 5:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. at the Road2Plaza Information Center, located at Gomezplein 5.
No appointment is required, and interested members of the public can attend any of the three sessions.