ROTTERDAM, 11 July 2025 – The transformation of Hofplein will go beyond aesthetics, with the municipality and BAM Infra Nederland launching the first Socio-Economic Impact Deal to generate employment and stimulate the local economy.
Image: Jil Ligterink, director at BAM Infra Nederland, and alderman Tim Versnel with the Socio-Economic Impact Deal at Hofplein
First socio-economic impact deal links Hofplein works to jobs and growth
The planned redesign of Hofplein into a green, pedestrian- and cyclist-friendly city square is set to bring more than just visual improvement. The project will also serve as a catalyst for employment opportunities and local economic development, following the signing of the first Socio-Economic Impact Deal (SEID) between the municipality of Rotterdam and BAM Infra Nederland.
The agreement, signed ceremonially on Friday 11 July by alderman Tim Versnel (responsible for Work and Income) and BAM Infra Nederland director Jil Ligterink, introduces a new model of collaboration in large-scale urban developments. It aims to boost employment in the infrastructure and construction sectors, particularly among young people in special education (pro- and vso-leerlingen), and to encourage procurement from Rotterdam-based businesses.
A new model for local impact
Under the agreement, BAM Infra Nederland and the municipality will jointly create pathways into employment for more Rotterdam residents, specifically in the civil engineering and waterworks sectors, where demand for skilled labour remains high. Partnerships with local schools are a key component, offering students early exposure to vocational opportunities in the industry.
Additionally, the renovation will prioritise regional sourcing, with a focus on engaging social enterprises and local suppliers. This approach is intended to ensure that the project’s economic benefits are felt within the local community.
Alderman Tim Versnel commented, “This collaboration with BAM Infra is unique in the Netherlands. We are transforming the heart of Rotterdam—Hofplein—while also creating jobs for our residents and economic momentum for local businesses. It is the first time we are working this closely with our partners on such an initiative.”
BAM Infra Nederland’s director Jil Ligterink added, “With this deal, we are building not only a greener Hofplein but also sustainable opportunities for the people of Rotterdam. By working with schools and local entrepreneurs, we make our impact tangible and future-proof. At BAM, craftsmanship and social responsibility go hand in hand.”
Broader ambitions
This SEID at Hofplein is the first of its kind in Rotterdam. The municipality intends to expand this approach to other large-scale urban projects, including the construction of the Nelson Mandela Park in Maashaven and the greening of the Hofbogen.
Directions to Hofplein
Hofplein is located in central Rotterdam, at the intersection of key roads including the Schiekade and Coolsingel. The area is a major transit and pedestrian hub, easily accessible via tram and metro from Rotterdam Centraal station. The future redesign will improve the environment for cyclists and pedestrians, reducing space for cars to create a more liveable urban space.
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