The new Lake District south of Leipzig has been aiming at interconnected waters since the start of the open-cast mine reclamation project 30 years ago. Several locks have been opened, as shown on our plan. Now a feasibility study has been launched to explore options for a boat passage between Cospuden Lake and Zwenkau Lake.
Various options and variants are to be examined to provide this connection between the two lakes, overcoming a difference in level of 4 m. The passage will be 900m long, and will be used by passenger boats, sailing boats and motorboats, canoes and all human-powered boats. Ideas are invited from members of the worldwide waterway community for an innovative and sustainable solution. Designers should consider that construction work has to be carried out in a post-mining landscape (unstable soils), and will pass under a highway bridge.
The connection to Zwenkau Lake and the lakeside town of Zwenkau will be a significant addition to the extensive waterway network in Leipzig’s new Lake District, and is expected to stimulate economic development through new possibilities for recreation and tourism.
The Office for Urban Greenery and Waters (Amt für Stadtgrün und Gewässer) in Leipzig is looking for ideas, suggestions, examples and contacts for an innovative solution for the connection, which could be different from a conventional canal and lock. All suggestions will be greatly appreciated by the project manager in Leipzig.
Leipzig seeks original boat passage
