After more than two years, we can finally announce the location we are working on for Stichting Miniatuurpark BerBuland, also known as Modelspoor Aalten.
First of all, we would like to make it clear that we do not yet have the necessary permits, nor have we started any active construction work at this location. We first need to await the council’s decision regarding the “Zwembadvisie 2032”. Nevertheless, we have already informed the immediate neighbours and successfully held a neighbourhood meeting.
We are working on a plan for the site of the ’t Walfort natural swimming pool in Aalten, at Dennenoord 2.
Below, we explain more about our plans, the different phases, and how we want to give this beautiful location, with its unique historical character, a new future.
What started as an idea for a train connection between the potential Landal park, which could be developed on the former campsite next to the swimming pool, and ’t Walfort swimming pool, eventually became the link to a much larger plan: a new purpose for the ’t Walfort natural swimming pool and a possible new location for Modelspoor Aalten, which has been looking for a new home since its closure in 2015.
In the meantime, a complete plan has been developed that aims to preserve the historical character of this special location, while also making room for nature and further development. A place where the history of Aalten can be seen and experienced, and where there is something for both young and old to enjoy.
A new purpose, but with a sense of the past.
Phase 1
Stichting Miniatuurpark BerBuland is working with a phased plan. This makes the project achievable for us and allows us to make adjustments during the development process where necessary.
In Phase 1, we will focus on rebuilding Bernard Buesink’s former Modelspoor Panorama, the entrance area and the first impression of the location.
In this phase, we want to give the beach its character back, renovate the terrace and create a cosy, welcoming atmosphere. We also want to add plenty of new plants, which will not only provide greenery and atmosphere, but also attract new life, such as bumblebees and bees.
Not an Amusement Park
When you hear the name “miniature park”, you may think of a large amusement park, but nothing could be further from the truth. Our primary goal is to bring back the history of Bernard Buesink, his model railway and his unique narrow-gauge trains. In addition, we want to restore the grounds of ’t Walfort natural swimming pool and bring them back to life.
There are more ideas for the future, but peace, space and recreation are at the heart of our plans. No screaming crowds, roller coasters or large attractions.
In our view, the name Miniature Park is exactly what it should be. It will literally be a park, with lots of greenery and various miniature areas where we bring stories and creations to life. A place to take your time, enjoy the surroundings and discover something new.
At the same time, we want to preserve the sense of small-scale charm that fits Aalten and our beautiful Achterhoek region.
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Phase 2: The Narrow-Gauge Railway Returns
Phase 2 will focus on the safe construction of the narrow-gauge railway and the restoration of the large trains in 1:4 scale. Bernard Buesink built these unique trains himself in his garden in the 1980s. The trains were later sold to Het Noorden in Aalten, where they brought joy to many children for many years.
In spring 2025, the trains were donated back to Stichting Miniatuurpark BerBuland, with the aim of restoring them and giving them a new future. Hopefully, this will allow new generations to enjoy these special trains once again.
We plan to build the railway along the inside of the site, following the existing earth embankment. There is already a level section of approximately two metres wide here. This means we can make use of what is already there and ultimately reduce the amount of earthwork required.
At the location where the former lifeguard's house once stood, we plan to build a train shed. The trains can be safely stored here when they are not in operation. There is even an idea to route the current mountain bike trail over the train shed, combining both functions in a unique way.
The station will be located next to the model railway from Phase 1. During our neighbourhood meeting, a great name was already suggested: Station Dennenoord. A name that refers to the street where the site is located and fits beautifully with the natural character of this place.
The entire route is expected to be approximately 600 metres long.
The History of the Location
Preserving the history of this location is also important to us. We see this in the many stories and reactions we read, including on Facebook. Many people have special memories of this place, and that means we want to cherish and preserve those memories.
Our goal is not to reopen the old natural swimming pool for swimmers, but rather to keep the memories of it alive, preserve its stories and pass them on to new generations. The history of the location itself also deserves a special place. The natural swimming pool was created in 1933 as an employment relief project. Around one hundred unemployed men dug out the pool using shovels and wheelbarrows. In total, around 45,000 m³ of sand was moved. The sand was used, among other things, to create the earth embankment that still surrounds the site today. We would like to honour these men and the work they carried out here by giving them a place at the location. For example, we could create a small museum where we can tell their story. If this location becomes a reality for us, we would like to invite anyone who has stories, photographs or names of these people to get in touch with us. Perhaps some of the original tools or other objects from that time have even been preserved. These people and their story deserve a place in the park.
Do We Want to Change This Location? No, Quite the Opposite.
We want to preserve the recognisable shape of the natural swimming pool. In some areas, there will simply no longer be a lawn for sunbathing, but instead there will be space for stories, miniature worlds and greenery. This way, the location can take on a new purpose without losing sight of its past.
Phase 3
In Phase 3, we want to add an idea that was suggested, among others, by the municipality and fits very well with our concept: a themed area about Old Aalten.
We want to recreate buildings from our beautiful municipality that have a special story to tell in miniature. This will make this area not only enjoyable to explore, but also educational for schools and other visitors.
This way, we are not only telling the story of Aalten. In some cases, we want to encourage visitors to discover Aalten itself after their visit to BerBuland. Which buildings have they seen in miniature, and which ones do they recognise when they see them in real life? In this way, we hope to draw attention not only to BerBuland, but also to Aalten and its special places. You will also see miniature boats included in the design. This is a fun addition that will introduce visitors to the world of radio-controlled model boats. Perhaps, in the future, you might even be able to operate a boat yourself. The design also shows another themed area. We are still looking for a suitable purpose for this section. It will in any case be something in miniature that fits in with the rest of the park. Ideas for this are always welcome, as are ideas for the rest of the park.
Is There a Connection Between Bernard Buesink and ’t Walfort Natural Swimming Pool?
Surprisingly, there are quite a few. Besides the fact that this location is only about 250 metres from our former address on Beerninkweg in Aalten, there are several other interesting connections.
Bernard himself learned to swim at the natural swimming pool. First on the dry sand and, later, of course, in the cold natural water. The image below shows Bernard’s original swimming certificate.
A gondola ride also once took place at the old natural swimming pool. For this occasion, Bernard and his brother Gerrit built a gondola in the shape of a crane, decorated with numerous tea lights. The wind made this quite a challenge. In the darkness, the two brothers pushed the gondola themselves through the cold water. The photo shows this unique gondola. Bernard also left his mark in other places. A large part of the railings around the natural swimming pool came from Bernard Buesink’s blacksmith’s workshop. The old slide and diving boards were also made by him. And there is another special connection with the trains. Before the large trains went to Het Noorden in Aalten in 1997, the possibility of running the trains over the embankment at ’t Walfort had already been considered. This proved not to be feasible due to the significant changes in elevation along the embankment. It turns out that Bernard Buesink and ’t Walfort have been connected in many different ways for much longer than you might expect.
Phase 4
Phase 4 is also the final phase of our current plan for this location. This phase will focus mainly on the footpath around the natural swimming pool, the Dromenwoud (Dream Forest), and possibly a miniature version of Bredevoort Castle or ’t Walfort.
Dromenwoud (Dream Forest) A large part of this area has a woodland character, and the possibilities for construction are limited. But that does not mean we cannot do anything with it. This is how the idea for the Dromenwoud came about: a place with small fantasy houses, made from natural materials, for example, a barefoot trail and, above all, plenty of attention for the existing nature. We also want to explore how we can help visitors connect more with nature here. For example, through small workshops or presentations. Think of making birdhouses together or learning about the birds and other animals found in the Achterhoek. This way, this area can also have an educational element. The Footpath We ultimately want the footpath to run all the way around the site, between the natural swimming pool and the water purification pond. This pond already has a beautiful natural character, and we do not want to change too much about it. It is a kind of natural pond that radiates tranquillity, and we believe that this sense of peace should above all be preserved. A Miniature Castle Another idea is a miniature version of Bredevoort Castle or ’t Walfort. To us, these are two special castles, each with its own story. ’t Walfort is located a short distance from the park and today has more of the appearance of a farmhouse from the outside. Bredevoort Castle no longer exists, but it has a rich history that makes it particularly interesting to bring it back to life in miniature. Or perhaps, in the future, it will be both castles?
Phase 4 is still a long way into the future for us. We therefore do not expect to be working on this phase within the next ten years. But, as with so many ideas within BerBuland, never say never.
Wist je dat?
…that BerBuland wants to make use of what is already there? The existing earth embankment, the beach, the greenery and the shape of the natural swimming pool are not obstacles for us, but rather elements that make this location special. Our starting point is therefore not to level everything and start again, but to build on the character that is already there wherever possible.
…that greenery is not just filler, but a real part of the design? Plants, flowers, trees and natural areas should become just as much a part of BerBuland as the trains and miniatures. In doing so, we want to create not only a beautiful environment, but also provide space for bees, bumblebees, birds and other animals.
…that peace and tranquillity were already part of Dennenoord in the past? Long before BerBuland developed plans for this location, Dennenoord was already described as a place where people could enjoy the fresh pine-scented air. Almost a century later, we want to create a green space once again where peace, recreation and experience come together.
…that the old model railway will once again be located outdoors? This is not a coincidence. Bernard’s original model railway was also an outdoor railway. In this way, sunshine, rain, plants and the changing seasons will once again become part of the miniature world.
…that BerBuland will not be built all at once? Our plan is deliberately divided into different phases. This means the entire site does not have to be redeveloped all at once. We can develop it step by step, learn from experience and adjust our plans where necessary.
…that we have an idea for a cycling route through the surrounding area? Bernard created many things throughout his life and left his mark in various places. He was a blacksmith by profession, and as a result, various creations made by him can still be found in Aalten and the surrounding area. For the future, we would therefore like to link a cycling route to this. A visit to BerBuland could then be combined with a beautiful bike ride along places connected to Bernard and his work. A sporty day out, combined with a little history and education.
Do You Support Our Project?
For now and for the future, we are looking for volunteers, sponsors and, of course, donors who would like to help us make this special project a reality, step by step.
Would you like to support us or find out more?
Please continue exploring our website for more information, or feel free to contact us via the contact form.
Every contribution, large or small, brings BerBuland one step closer to a new future.
Sponsor
The concept illustrations were sponsored and designed by Snibbit from Winterswijk. We would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank them for their creative contribution and these beautiful illustrations, which bring our ideas and plans to life.
