Ledasperrwerk, Tidal barrier in Leer, Germany
The Ledasperrwerk is a tidal barrier on the Leda River in Leer with five openings, each roughly 14 meters wide, operated by lift gates about 10.5 meters tall between control towers. The structure allows water to flow normally and closes only when water levels rise well above average high tide.
Construction started in September 1950 in a dry section of the river bend, and the barrier became operational in July 1954. Its completion marked a turning point for the region, as Leer gained better protection against storm surge from that time onward.
Locals see this barrier as central to their relationship with water, since it keeps the harbor usable while protecting the city from flooding. The structure shows how people here learned to work with tides rather than against them.
Visitors can view the barrier from shore or nearby paths and watch how it operates. There are no special requirements for visiting, though coming during a storm or high water makes the gates active and more interesting to observe.
A pumping station built between 2000 and 2001 stands next to the main structure as an extra line of defense against flooding. This pump works alongside the barrier and shows how the city's protection has grown over time.
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