ROTTERDAM, 11 April 2025 – A former sports hall in Rozenburg is making way for new housing aimed at older residents. The redevelopment forms part of a broader effort to revitalise Rotterdam's smaller urban districts.
Rozenburg site to be redeveloped for senior housing
The demolition of the former De Rozet sports hall in Rozenburg has officially begun. The project is part of a wider urban development plan intended to improve the liveability of Rotterdam’s harbour village districts (havendorpen), particularly for ageing residents.
Wethouder Robert Simons (Kleine Kernen) initiated the demolition at the site on Laan van Nieuw Blankenburg. The decision follows years of discussion between the municipality and the local village council. The cleared area will be repurposed into a residential development, marking the start of a new phase for the neighbourhood.
Plans for 40 to 60 new apartments
The municipality plans to construct between 40 and 60 apartments on the site, with an even split between the social and mid-market rental segments. These homes are primarily intended for senior residents of Rozenburg. The project aims to provide more suitable housing options for the area’s ageing population.
“The demolition of De Rozet is the beginning of a new chapter, where we create space for affordable housing, specifically for our elderly residents,” said wethouder Robert Simons. “This contributes to the vitality and appeal of our harbour village. I am pleased we can realise this project in cooperation with the village council.”
Years of delay due to planning and environmental concerns
The decision to demolish De Rozet was shaped by a motion titled Maak werk van De Rozet, put forward by councillors Joey de Waard (Leefbaar Rotterdam) and Ardi Oostdijk (FVD). Environmental assessments, including research into bat populations, caused earlier delays. With those issues resolved, the site is now being cleared.
The redevelopment is part of the ten-year Programma Kleine Kernen, which focuses on strengthening the identity and attractiveness of Rotterdam’s four smaller urban centres: Hoek van Holland, Rozenburg, Pernis and Heijplaat.
Location and directions
The development site is located at Laan van Nieuw Blankenburg in Rozenburg. The area lies near the village centre and is accessible via local public transport or by car. The surrounding neighbourhood features a mix of residential and industrial zones, with several green spaces nearby.
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