ROTTERDAM, 10 April 2025 – Construction will soon begin on a years-long transformation of the Hofplein, turning the iconic Rotterdam roundabout into a green city square designed for pedestrians, cyclists and public transport.
Hofplein to undergo major transformation
The city of Rotterdam has announced that the redevelopment of Hofplein, a major traffic hub in the city centre, will commence on Monday 14 April 2025. Over the next three years, the current car-dominated roundabout will be reshaped into a public space featuring trees, green landscaping and improved pedestrian and cyclist access. The redesign is expected to be completed in the first half of 2028.
Historical and symbolic site
Hofplein, delivered in 1955 and designed by post-war architect J.R.A. Koops, is widely recognised for its central fountain and as a popular celebration spot for local football supporters. Its location, also featured in the Dutch Monopoly board game, has cemented its place in the national consciousness.
The new Hofplein viewed from the Hilton hotel angle
Changing urban needs
At the time of its construction, Hofplein primarily served as a throughway for motor traffic. However, the area’s needs have shifted with the growth of the inner-city population and the construction of 10,000 new homes. The city now seeks to prioritise active mobility, clean air and green space, in line with contemporary urban planning principles.
The future of Hofplein
The redesign by architecture firm Juurlink + Geluk envisions a multifunctional square where traffic is reduced and re-routed around the edges. Only two of the current five car lanes will remain. Public transport, including trams, will receive a central position in the square. Pedestrian pathways and cycle lanes will be expanded to accommodate increased foot and bike traffic.
Major works reshape Hofplein into city square
Climate-adaptive city square
Once complete, Hofplein will host 150 trees and various plant beds. A new underground water storage facility will hold up to one million litres, helping manage rainfall and support irrigation during drier periods. The trees are expected to reduce temperatures in the area by up to 7 degrees Celsius during the summer months. The iconic fountain, featuring sculptures by artist Cor van Kralingen, will be preserved at the heart of the new square.
Alderman Pascal Lansink-Bastemeijer (Public Space) remarked: “The new Hofplein will be a green city square for everyone to enjoy. I envision residents and visitors strolling through greenery on their way to work or the shops. From Coolsingel, they will reach the new Hofbogenpark via a long, green corridor. This project reflects what the city urgently needs—clean air, more greenery, and space for all forms of transport.”
Rotterdam begins redesign of Hofplein
Disruption and traffic impact
The redevelopment will be carried out in phases to reduce disruption. Each section of the square will be closed off in stages, while completed parts will reopen as works progress. The first stage begins in April 2025, during which traffic from Coolsingel to Pompenburg and Schiekade will be blocked. Similarly, vehicles from Weena will no longer be able to travel directly to Pompenburg.
Alderman Lansink-Bastemeijer acknowledged the inconvenience: “A project of this scale in such a central location will impact traffic. It will be challenging, but manageable with mutual understanding. We encourage everyone to visit our vibrant city centre—just reconsider how you get here. If possible, use a bicycle, public transport, or park at a P+R. That way, you’ll travel faster and enjoy the city longer.”
Travel advice during construction
The city centre remains accessible during construction, though routes will be diverted. Travellers are advised to plan ahead and allow extra travel time. Use of public transport, bicycles, or P+R locations on the city’s edge is encouraged. For those driving, delays should be expected and diversion routes followed. Tram, bus and metro services will also be adjusted. Updated travel information is available via ret.nl/Hofplein.
More details about the project can be found at rotterdam.nl/hofplein and rotterdam.nl/rotterdam-bereikbaar.
Location and directions
Hofplein is located at the intersection of several major streets in central Rotterdam, including Coolsingel, Weena, and Schiekade. It is a prominent urban junction surrounded by shops, offices, and walking routes leading to both the city centre and Rotterdam Noord.
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