Ecological connectivity routes Soeloop, the Oude Aa and the Astense Aa, Municipality of Deurne

The ecological connectivity zones around the Soeloop, Oude Aa and Astense Aa strengthen biodiversity by connecting habitats and guiding animals safely through the landscape. With the Fauna Safe Panels by GreenMax, safe passages under roads and clear boundaries are created, protecting vulnerable species and preventing conflicts with land users. This creates a robust, future-proof nature zone that benefits both wildlife and the landscape.

The ecological connectivity zones around the Soeloop, Oude Aa and Astense Aa form continuous strips of nature that link different habitats, allowing plants and animals to move safely between surrounding natural areas. These zones consist of nature-friendly banks, redesigned watercourses and various measures such as fish passages, pools and planting, which contribute to healthier biodiversity and a more natural water system. By connecting fragmented nature areas, these corridors improve both habitat availability for species and the ecological quality of the stream valleys.

Van Berkel Groep has redesigned the ecological connectivity routes to better connect the nature areas in this stream valley. In total, this concerns approximately 3.2 kilometres of ecological connectivity zones and nature-friendly banks. The Soeloop is also being redesigned along a one-kilometre stretch. Jos Kanters Groenvoorziening installed the robust Fauna Safe Panels by GreenMax, also known as ‘toad screens’. These panels guide amphibians such as frogs, toads and salamanders safely through the landscape: they prevent animals from entering the construction area or crossing roads at dangerous locations. Instead, they are directed towards safe crossings. In this way, the Fauna Safe Panels not only protect vulnerable populations but also provide clear demarcation towards adjacent land users.

Under the Neerkantseweg in Liessel and the Vlierdensedreef in Vlierden, two bridges have been constructed within existing culverts, allowing animals to cross the road safely without coming into contact with traffic. In addition, access gates have been installed at several strategic locations and fencing has been placed to guide animals in the right direction and protect vulnerable zones. To provide clarity for farmers and other land users, boundary posts have also been installed, making the transition between agricultural land and the ecological connectivity zone visible in the landscape.

These measures have created a safer and clearer route for animals, enabling them to move more easily between different natural areas. The access gates, fencing and boundary posts also provide a clear structure and better interaction between nature and agriculture. Together, they contribute to an ecological connectivity zone that strengthens biodiversity. In this way, a landscape is created that is future-proof for both people and wildlife.