Tenant involvement in Rotterdam demolitions agreed

Tenant involvement in Rotterdam demolitions agreed

ROTTERDAM, 18 December 2024 – Rotterdam’s housing corporations, tenant organisations, and the municipality have established clear agreements regarding collaboration on housing renovation and demolition projects. The framework, outlined in the new city-wide social statute, seeks to ensure tenants’ involvement and support during these processes.

Agreements under the social statute

The social statute (stedelijk sociaal statuut), signed this week, defines the roles, rights, and responsibilities of tenants, housing corporations, and the municipality in renovation or demolition projects. Key measures include:

  • Stay close guarantee (Blijf in de buurt garantie): Tenants can remain in their neighbourhood if they wish.
  • Regret clause (spijtoptantenregeling): Tenants dissatisfied with relocation can return to their original area when possible.
  • Rent adjustment period: A three-year transitional period is provided for tenants facing increased rent after renovations.

The agreement will be implemented initially through three pilot projects with different housing corporations. Feedback from these projects will inform future improvements.

Collaboration with tenants at the centre

Laurie Hermanns, chair of the Common Consultation of Tenant Organisations (Gemeenschappelijk Overleg Huurdersorganisaties, GOH), described the statute as “a big step in the right direction for many Rotterdammers.” She added: “For years, residents were powerless when decisions about the renovation or demolition of their homes were made. Now, the involvement of tenants has been arranged, along with guarantees like the regret clause and the Stay Close guarantee. Over the coming years, we’ll gain experience through three pilot projects, where tenants will have full say and independent support. These experiences will help us refine the statute’s practical application.”

Hedy van den Berk, chair of housing corporation Havensteder, said: “I am proud of what we’ve achieved together with tenants. Tenants rightly feel deeply connected to their home and environment, and in the statute, we’ve agreed on how to safeguard that connection.”

Miriam Hoekstra-van der Deen, chair of Woonstad Rotterdam, added: “This is a solid foundation that ensures tenants have a say in what happens to their homes. Everyone who contributed deserves recognition.”

Wethouder Chantal Zeegers (Climate, Housing, and Building) stated: “Renovation or demolition has a major impact on tenants’ lives. This statute provides clarity about their rights. By making clear agreements about guidance and support during these periods, we aim to ensure that tenants can once again enjoy their home and surroundings after such a significant change.”


Alderman Chantal Zeegers signs the Citywide Social Statute. Photography: Rhalda JansenAlderman Chantal Zeegers signs the Citywide Social Statute. Photography: Rhalda Jansen

Independent tenant support

Tenants and organisations now have the right to independent support to navigate these changes. A municipal list of approved organisations will be created, allowing tenants to select their preferred advisers. These advisers will remain independent of housing corporations and the municipality, with their costs covered by corporations.

Pilot projects to test new collaboration methods

Housing corporations Havensteder, Woonstad, and Hef Wonen will conduct trials enabling tenants to participate in decision-making regarding renovations or demolitions. The results will determine whether this approach can be expanded to other projects.

 

Rotterdam’s student housing expansion plans for 2025

Rotterdam’s student housing expansion plans for 2025

ROTTERDAM, 18 December 2024 – Plans to address the student housing shortage in Rotterdam continue to progress, with over 2300 units expected to be built by 2025. New developments in the city centre and key transport hubs aim to provide more options for students.

Rotterdam progresses on student housing goals

Rotterdam is on track to significantly increase its stock of student housing, with over 1900 units projected to be constructed by the end of 2025. This marks a considerable step beyond the initial goal set in 2022 by the municipal council, which aimed for 1600 new homes during the current council period.

Chantal Zeegers, the city councillor for Climate, Building, and Housing, expressed optimism, stating, “If we continue at this pace, over 2300 student housing units will have been built during this council term. This is an important step towards meeting the high demand in the student housing market. We will continue working to ensure a broad and affordable range of options for students.”

New developments underway in Rotterdam

Construction of 250 student homes at Westblaak in the city centre and 413 homes at Benthemstraat in the Agniesebuurt is set to begin in mid-December. These projects will offer a mix of self-contained apartments and shared facilities.

Self-contained units will dominate the new developments, but common areas are planned to foster a sense of community and reduce isolation. Shared housing will include communal spaces such as living rooms, laundry areas, and bicycle storage.

Artist impression of the new student housing at Westblaak in the centre of Rotterdam. Visuals provided by Sweco Architects.Artist impression of the new student housing at Westblaak in the centre of Rotterdam. Visuals provided by Sweco Architects.

Strategic locations for student housing

New student housing is being planned near educational institutions and transport hubs, including Brainpark, Rotterdam city centre, and Zuidplein. By 2025, the municipality and developers aim to begin constructing 1300 units at various locations, such as Hoge Wiek near the former Havenziekenhuis, Toepad in De Esch, Hoofdweg in the Alexanderknoop, and the Rush project in Brainpark.

Beyond 2026, additional projects are expected at Weena, Zuidplein, and on the Erasmus University campus in Kralingen. The municipality is also investigating the feasibility of building student housing at Rijnhaven (Veemtoren).

Tackling the student housing shortage collaboratively

Rotterdam is home to over 100,000 students across vocational (MBO), higher (HBO), and university (WO) institutions. The demand for student housing remains high, prompting the city to collaborate with educational institutions, student housing providers, and student organisations to address the issue.

In 2023, the city introduced the Student Housing Implementation Plan (Uitvoeringsplan Studentenhuisvesting) to address these challenges. The plan aims to spread student housing more evenly across Rotterdam, reducing pressure on popular neighbourhoods such as Kralingen.

New Erasmus MC Campus to boost healthcare in Rotterdam

New Erasmus MC Campus to boost healthcare in Rotterdam

ROTTERDAM, 11 December 2024 – Plans are underway to transform the Erasmus MC Campus into a hub for innovative healthcare, medical technology, and entrepreneurship. The project aims to integrate green spaces, sustainable design, and enhanced connectivity within the heart of Rotterdam.

Photo credit: Artist's impression of Erasmus MC Campus developments: The visual concept for the upcoming Erasmus MC Campus has been crafted as part of the Masterplan 2050, updated in 2024. The designs have been developed by Diederendirrix (architecture and urban planning) in collaboration with Juurlink & Geluk (landscape architecture). These impressions provide a glimpse into the planned integration of modern facilities with sustainable and green urban spaces, reflecting the ambitions for the campus to become a central hub for healthcare innovation in Rotterdam.

Erasmus MC campus: a new vision for healthcare and innovation

The Erasmus MC, in collaboration with the municipality of Rotterdam, is advancing plans to establish a vibrant campus dedicated to healthcare innovation, medical technology, and entrepreneurship. The initiative marks a significant step in the revitalisation of the site previously occupied by the Dijkzigt Hospital and the adjacent residential block for nurses on ’s-Gravendijkwal.

The campus, as outlined in the revised Masterplan 2050, will foster collaboration between institutions, businesses, researchers, students, and educators. It will provide opportunities for startups and innovative companies in healthcare and medical technology to thrive. Partnerships with the Erasmus University Rotterdam and TU Delft are expected to play a central role in turning technological knowledge into practical applications.

Phased development for sustainability and flexibility

The project will be developed in phases, beginning with the relocation of the Sophia Children’s Hospital (Erasmus MC Sophia Kinderziekenhuis), the Department of Psychiatry, and various research units to new facilities at ’s-Gravendijkwal. The current buildings, considered outdated, may be repurposed for temporary student housing during this transition.

Future phases will include expansion towards the Westzeedijk and Museumpark areas. A step-by-step approach has been chosen to limit financial risks and ensure adaptability to external market changes. This phased strategy also allows for independent progress at each stage.

Prioritising sustainability and connectivity

The updated Masterplan includes significant emphasis on sustainability and accessibility. Green spaces, rooftop gardens, and sustainable design elements such as solar panels and water retention features will enhance the urban environment. The campus will also be highly accessible, with upgraded pedestrian and cycling routes and improved public transport connections, including a planned high-frequency HOV bus line and the Daniel den Hoed Bridge, which will provide a walking route linking Little C, the Familiehuis Daniel den Hoed, and Erasmus MC.

Economic impact and job creation

As one of Rotterdam’s largest employers with 18,000 staff, Erasmus MC anticipates the campus will generate an additional 2,800 to 5,000 jobs, particularly in research and medical technology. This growth is expected to strengthen ties between the medical centre, the business community, and educational institutions, reinforcing the economic and social fabric of Rotterdam.

Addressing future needs in healthcare and research

Dirk Schraven, member of the Erasmus MC Executive Board, emphasised the importance of the campus in addressing future healthcare challenges. “We aim to develop a sustainable medical and technological campus in the heart of the city, surrounded by green spaces. The proximity of partners and stakeholders is essential for fostering innovation in healthcare,” he stated.

Deputy Mayor Chantal Zeegers highlighted the potential for the campus to integrate more deeply into the city. “The new campus will offer inviting entrances from all directions, within a green environment, with easily accessible cycling and walking paths,” she remarked.

Rotterdam aids 20,000 homes with energy-saving measures

Rotterdam aids 20,000 homes with energy-saving measures

ROTTERDAM, 17 December 2024 – Over 20,000 Rotterdam households have received assistance to reduce energy costs, highlighting the city’s dedication to addressing energy poverty through sustainable solutions. Collaborative efforts with local partners have been instrumental in achieving these results.

Rotterdam aids 20,000 households in energy-saving efforts

Rotterdam has reached a significant milestone in its fight against energy poverty. Since January 2022, over 20,000 households have benefited from energy-saving initiatives carried out by “energieklussers” (energy fixers). The programme, supported by national SPUK funding and local collaborations, focuses on providing practical solutions to lower energy bills for residents.

Practical measures by energy fixers

The energy fixers programme has delivered direct assistance to thousands of households. By implementing measures such as installing draught strips, radiator foil, LED lighting, and insulating curtains, the initiative helps residents reduce energy consumption. Additionally, the expanded “Energieklussers+” project includes mid-level sustainability improvements such as hydronic balancing and the installation of ground insulation.

This approach not only contributes to energy savings but also creates employment opportunities for individuals facing challenges in the job market. Partnerships with organisations like Rotterdam Inclusief and EES Holland have been vital in this endeavour.

Quotes from city officials

Deputy Mayor Chantal Zeegers, responsible for climate policy, emphasised the project’s impact, saying:
“The fact that over 20,000 households have benefitted from energy fixers demonstrates the effectiveness and necessity of this initiative. By working with housing associations and investing in rental property sustainability, we aim for structural solutions that benefit all Rotterdammers with lower energy costs and a sustainable future.”

Deputy Mayor Natasha Mohamed-Hoesein, responsible for poverty, highlighted the programme’s dual benefits:
“Energy fixers not only help low-income residents reduce their energy bills but also contribute to more sustainable living. This approach offers immediate relief while addressing long-term solutions to energy poverty.”

Broader impact: coaching, subsidies, and social projects

Beyond energy fixers, Rotterdam is implementing additional measures to support residents:

  • Energy coaching and events: Since September 2024, the Rotterdams Milieucentrum has reached 1,200 residents with practical energy-saving tips.
  • Housing corporation projects: Housing associations have initiated €12.6 million in sustainability projects, benefitting 6,636 households by replacing single glazing with HR++ glass, adding solar panels, and improving insulation.
  • Sustainable appliances: Since May 2024, 382 households have received energy-efficient appliances through special assistance programmes.

Looking ahead to 2025

In January 2025, a new project will launch, offering free advice and the implementation of major insulation measures, such as roof insulation and HR++ glass, for over 200 homeowners. Subsidies for housing associations and homeowners’ associations (VvE’s) will continue, ensuring that Rotterdam maintains its focus on long-term solutions to energy poverty.

A collaborative approach

The city’s progress reflects extensive cooperation with housing associations, welfare organisations, and local partners. These joint efforts not only promote energy conservation but also contribute to Rotterdam’s sustainability goals and the overall quality of life for its residents.

With over 20,000 households reached and ambitious plans for the future, Rotterdam remains committed to reducing energy poverty and building a sustainable urban environment.

Rotterdam integrates sustainability into building standards

Rotterdam integrates sustainability into building standards

ROTTERDAM, 10 December 2024 – Rotterdam is updating its building standards to prioritise sustainability and climate-conscious practices. The revised guidelines mark a significant step towards environmentally friendly construction in the city.

Rotterdam updates building policy with focus on sustainability

The municipality of Rotterdam has introduced an updated version of its “Welstandsnota” (building aesthetics policy) to address modern challenges related to sustainability and climate adaptation. This revision includes notable additions that align construction practices with principles of circularity, biodiversity, and renewable energy.

Rotterdam is the first of the Netherlands' four largest cities to integrate sustainability on such a broad scale into its building standards. Additionally, the updated guidelines reflect newly designated national heritage cityscapes (rijksbeschermde stadsgezichten) recognised since 2012.

Emphasis on sustainable construction

In April 2024, Rotterdam's municipal council approved relaxed rules for installing energy-generating panels in protected cityscapes and on historical monuments. The newly revised policy builds on this by setting criteria for sustainable materials with long lifespans or those suitable for circular use. It also offers guidance for energy-efficient solutions, such as solar panels, insulation, and green facades.

These updates are part of Rotterdam's broader efforts to meet climate targets outlined in the Paris Agreement. Despite the changes, the general structure of the Welstandsnota remains largely intact, albeit in a more compact and user-friendly format.

Improving quality of life

The Welstandsnota, originally published in 2012, serves as a framework for the Commission for Environmental Quality and Cultural Heritage when assessing building permits. By updating these criteria, the city aims to ensure that construction projects contribute to a pleasant and sustainable living environment.

According to Alderman Zeegers: “With this revision of the Welstandsnota, Rotterdam takes an important step towards a sustainable and liveable future, protecting both the climate and the beauty of our city.”

Public consultation process

On 10 December 2024, Rotterdam’s executive board decided to revise the Welstandsnota. The updated policy will be available for public consultation from 16 December 2024 until 27 January 2025, during which time citizens can submit their opinions via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. The municipal council is expected to finalise the policy later in 2025, replacing the current version.

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