The Kruibeke Bazel Rupelmonde (KBR) Controlled Flood Area (CFA) is a key component of the Belgian Sigma Plan for the Scheldt Estuary. The Sigma Plan is an integrated flood protection plan that combines dikes, seawalls and flood areas to protect approximately 20,000 hectares of land from flooding.

Within the Sigma Plan, the KBR site is the most important Controlled Flood Area, which is projected to reduce flood risks along the Scheldt Estuary by five times. To create the KBR area, works were carried out to open three contiguous polders (areas of reclaimed land) – the Kruibeke, Bazel and Rupelmonde polders – to controlled tidal action. The re-opened polders do not provide only a defence system from Scheldt river flooding but are a wide natural and attractive space, where forest and creek habitats were restored, fish stocks were managed and recreational opportunities were provided. The system has already proved its efficacy, counteracting the effects of storm surge events. Currently the KBR is one of the most frequented sites of the Sigma Plan’s area of intervention, with increasing attractiveness for touristic activities.