Makan

the director of the Chameleon theme park (for children), I investigated the history of the Isle of Terherne in the North of the Netherlands in September 2006. I made an inventory of all the possibilities for developing the Chameleon theme park. Most striking is the dichotomy between the old village and the new built recreation area De Herne. Since the year 2000 the village Terherne consists of two different village structures. These two structures form an interesting contrast, but unfortunately not a unity.

The enormous quality of the Chameleon area is its central situation. It is the only plot that can connect the old village with the new one. During a brainstorm session we made an ambitious plan. In order to create a new village centre we restored the historic water canal of It Far and connected it with the recreation pool of the new village De Herne. A small resort for children will arise in the centre and, surrounded with a dike.

A water tower as the central point of the village will ensure recognition of Terherne in its surroundings. Work ateliers are situated in the dikes and a roof path will give some extra adventure to the village.

The intention to extend the water on the area behind the farm proved to be too ambitious. The plans had to be adjusted drastically. In November 2006 the idea of a water playground for children arose. Now the old barn is to be maintained and a central terrace in front of it will give a nice view of the water playground and the recreation pool of De Herne. Undulating hedges give excitement and shelter, a special place where children can discover what happens with filthy water used in bathroom and toilet.