The Baltic storm surge in October 2023 caused considerable damage with water levels of over two metres above the mean sea level. The destruction is still clearly visible in Damp. Mayor Barbara Feyock explains: "We currently have 110 berths in emergency operation - before the storm surge there were 365." The effects were serious: "32 boats alone sank." In addition, numerous boats landed on the jetties and caused considerable damage.
Financial support for reconstruction
The state of Schleswig-Holstein has now promised comprehensive financial support. According to the Ministry of Economic Affairs, the reconstruction of the harbour will be subsidised with 17.9 million euros. This covers around two thirds of the total costs of 23.9 million euros. The municipality of Damp submitted a corresponding application in October 2024. The funding not only covers the reconstruction, but also structural changes to make the harbour more resistant to future storm surges. A central component is the construction of an additional jetty on the south side of the harbour.
Long-term planning and challenges
Although funding has been promised, construction work cannot begin immediately. Mayor Feyock explains that the reconstruction work must first be put out to tender across Europe, which takes time. The municipality expects the work to be completed by the end of 2027. This long duration shows the scope and complexity of the project. State Secretary for Economic Affairs and Tourism Julia Carstens (CDU) emphasises the importance of the funding for the region: "With the almost 18 million euros, we are enabling the municipality to present itself in a positive light." She sees the high level of funding as an opportunity for the region to not only regain its former tourist appeal, but to even surpass it.
Improvements for tourism and weather resistance
The plans for the reconstruction go beyond mere restoration. The existing northern pier will not only be rebuilt and relocated, but a small pier will also be built to the south. "This will not only make the harbour more attractive for visitors, but also more weatherproof," explains Carstens. The aim of these measures is to better protect the harbour and the surrounding region against future storms and at the same time make it more attractive to tourists. As a Baltic Sea spa and image-defining holiday resort, Damp plays an important role in Schleswig-Holstein's tourism landscape. The funding is intended to help ensure that water sports, beach holidays and cycling and hiking trails along the coast can soon be used again without restriction. This will not only benefit traditional holidaymakers, but also the growing number of spa and rehabilitation guests in the region.
