The harbour of Rotterdam moved several times throughout the centuries, looking for places which could accommodate its growth as well as the increasing size of ships. In the 1930s, new harbour extensions were created on the northern shore in the west of the city. Most of the area served as fruit harbour, where e.g. the orange juice supply for the entire European hinterland used to be transshipped. In recent years, these harbour activities have started to move even further west, closer to the North Sea. The Merwe- and Vierhavens area is gradually changing its character, transforming from harbour to creative breeding ground. Many creative companies have settled in former harbour buildings. The municipality promotes this development and facilitates experimental projects in the area, which has become known as the Makers District.