"PIEDRA SOBRE EL AGUA" - DESARROLLO DEL PARQUE A LO LARGO DEL ARROYO IKVA

Challenge

The hydraulic engineering works (channelization, embankments) along the Ikva Stream began in the late 19th century, as part of the comprehensive river regulation efforts widespread across Europe at the time. After World War II, water management projects gained renewed momentum, and regulations mandated the straightening and dredging of streams and rivers to improve agricultural drainage. The regulation of the Ikva divided Fertőszentmiklós into two separate settlements, split by the stream. Among many unintended consequences, the channelization led to a drastic decline in the stream's biodiversity. In 2006, the floodplains, wetlands, and fen meadows along the Ikva were declared protected areas.

The Ikva Stream flows through Fertőszentmiklós at the boundary between built and natural environments. In this transition zone, the negative impacts of river regulation and construction processes are particularly pronounced. Yet, this transitional area also holds immense potential for fostering awareness, appreciation, and knowledge of natural ecosystems while offering recreational and tranquil spaces.

Purpose of development

The goal of the design was not to restore the stream to its original form but to complement the existing channel in the transition zone with a natural, meandering secondary branch system. The dynamic and fluctuating secondary branches encircle small islands that remain visible even during floods. The islands are arranged in a diamond-shaped pattern, as if shaped by the combined forces of nature—water flow and erosion—to achieve their final form. Thus, this section of the stream has regained a long-lost function: while preserving the footprint of the original watercourse, the added branch system now serves not only for water flow but also for water retention.

Furthermore the project aimed to develop a biodiverse green environment that utilizes the unique characteristics of the area, attracts residents and encourages active recreation, outdoor play and exercise. The proposal combined the existing stream with the creation of a new floodplain branch system and recreational islands, giving the visitor the understanding of the dynamic and fluctuating water and allowing ecological improvements to emerge as a cultural change. By welcoming the public to engage with the stream and raising awareness about local ecosystems, the park nurtures a sense of shared responsibility and motivates collaborative efforts to protect wetlands.

The town of Fertőszentmiklós received support from the Employee Foundation of the VKR Group for the park development along the Ikva near the town centre. The elliptical scapes of the hilltops (playground, street workout and playscape for dogs) are suitable for individual and group activities.

Morphology of the park

The mounds raised to flood protection level along with the meandering, interwined tributaries of the Ikva stream and biodiverse plant groups, vegetation areas encourage a more natural ecosystem and create a dynamic landscape which is naturally subject to the seasonal dynamics of flood water.

The separation of the park and the main road is ensured by a ditch with reed, which are complemented by groups of shrubs. The internal exploration of the park is facilitated by grassy paths, while the ground level differences are bridged by wooden and red limestone terrain steps.

Park equipment, material use

High silk grey painted wooden columns, stainless steel and blue ropes form the basis of the fitness and playground equipment on the elliptical scapes of the hilltops. They are accompanied by an otter-shaped insect hotel, beam benches with bicycle storage and solar-powered lights. In the southern part of the area, a ball field and sunbathing spots are situated, offering pleasant views of the stream. As visitors cross the Ikva Bridge, they are greeted by a welcome post with a chime installation shaped after the flowing contours of the Ikva stream and its tributaries.

Plants, ecosystem

The tributaries contribute to the creation of wetland habitats, which, in addition to their positive ecological functions, also offer recreational opportunities for the citizens. Several spots provide access to the stream and allow visitors to get closer to the water.  A wide variety of plant species with decorative flowers, fruits and foliage colours make the area diverse ever-changing throughout the year. The long-lasting floral display of Iris (iris), Butomus (flowering rush), Lythrum (spiked loosestrife), and Aster (aster) species is complemented by bald cypress (Taxodium distichum), alder (Alnus spp.), and willow (Salix spp.).

Currently, the main goal is to remodel the common practice of the town and continue with a nature-friendly maintenance, continuously transforming the trimmed grassy areas into flower meadows. Beavers, frogs, fish, little birds have already found their home in the area.