Born from the North Sea Canal
The digging of the North Sea Canal was completed in 1876 along with the mighty IJmuiden sea locks (50 metres wide and 12 metres deep) to ensure that Greater Amsterdam is not flooded, as much of the area lies below sea level. This was when IJmuiden was born, while Velsen was a North Sea port as far back as Roman times. There are plans to build a second North Sea Lock, a project which is still being considered by central government. The area has a population of almost 70,000.
Port of Velsen/IJmuiden
The Port of Velsen/IJmuiden, part of the Port of Amsterdam complex, the port-related business parks, and transportation and logistics companies occupy an area of almost 600 hectares. There is also a fish auction and other fishery-related activities for the North Sea fleet that is based here. The key geographical location of IJmuiden for the European fisheries sector is unique, on the shores of one of the world’s richest fishing grounds. The road and rail infrastructure, as well as the proximity of Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, are therefore essential. There is also a strong chemicals and petrochemicals industry, primarily for processing crude oil from the North Sea rigs.
Steel Producer
Another important engine for the regional economy, Corus Strip Products IJmuiden is one of the four divisions of multinational steel producer Corus. The massive steel plant manufactures hot-rolled, cold-rolled and metallic-coated steel for use in automotive and transport industries, building and construction, consumer appliances and electronics, and general engineering. Total output is about 6.5 million tonnes per year and there are 8,000 employees. As an innovative engineering company, Corus provides engineering solutions, supply-chain management and end-product development.
Felison Terminal IJmuiden
In more relaxed vein, the Felison Terminal in IJmuiden welcomes ocean liners as well as the DFDS Seaways ferries for daily crossings to Newcastle-upon-Tyne in northern England. In 2004 this route attracted about 520,000 passengers, many heading to Amsterdam. The IJmuiden Seaport Marina can accommodate 650 yachts, with boat dealers, dry-dock repairs and shops specialised in sailing equipment. An apartment complex, the Holiday Inn Hotel, the restaurants, the boulevard and the extensive Kennemerstrand beach make the area a multi-faceted destination for non-sailing visitors as well. Further inland there is the Spaarnwoude nature area, between Amsterdam, Haarlem and Velsen, covering about 3,000 hectares, an oasis of greenery and water that offers hiking, cycling, kayak rentals, a farm, and much more. For details visit the Zuid-Kennemerland Tourist Board.
Beverwijkse Bazaar
Besides the retail facilities in IJmuiden and Velsen, shoppers will love the Beverwijkse Bazaar, a unique indoor market that was established in 1980. It is held on Saturday and Sunday, with 3,000 permanent shops as well as occasional stalls that have an exotic twist.
Get in touch with the Amsterdam Foreign Investment Office at afio@ez.amsterdam.nl or see www.afio.amsterdam.nl for more information.
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