ROTTERDAM, 16 January 2025 – Housing construction in Rotterdam saw significant growth in 2024, with thousands of new homes under development. The city aims to address high housing demand by focusing on affordable and student housing.
Housing construction in Rotterdam sees growth in 2024
The city of Rotterdam recorded a 20% increase in housing construction in 2024 compared to the previous year. A total of 3,751 homes were initiated, with 65.5% allocated to the affordable housing segment. These developments occurred across various neighbourhoods, including Brainpark, Dakpark, Wielewaal, Weena, and IJsselhof in IJsselmonde.
Chantal Zeegers, Rotterdam's alderman for climate, building, and housing, commented on the figures: “This means we can help more Rotterdammers find a home, which is essential given the limited supply and high demand. The progress is largely due to collaborative efforts with market parties and housing corporations, supported by the September 2023 'Doorbouwakkoord' (Construction Continuation Agreement).”
Notable projects are underway across Rotterdam. Brainpark is located near Kralingse Zoom, easily accessible via metro and car. Dakpark sits near Delfshaven, offering urban greenery close to new developments. The Wielewaal neighbourhood is situated in Charlois, an area undergoing extensive redevelopment. In central Rotterdam, Weena is a bustling location near Rotterdam Centraal. Lastly, IJsselhof is positioned in IJsselmonde, a southern district connected to the city centre via public transport.
Increased focus on student housing
As part of the city’s efforts, construction began on 460 independent student residences, along with over 150 shared student housing units. Alderman Zeegers highlighted the importance of these initiatives: “Rotterdam is the second-largest student city in the Netherlands. Students play a vital role in creating a vibrant city, and we aim to retain them even after their studies by investing in affordable housing options.”
Challenges to housing construction
Despite the progress, challenges persist. Factors such as constrained budgets for housing corporations, reduced investment interest from international parties, rising construction costs, and issues with energy grid capacity (netcongestie) continue to impact housing production in Rotterdam.
To address these obstacles, the city plans to propose a ‘Rotterdamse Bouwwet’ (Rotterdam Building Act) to the municipal council before summer 2025. This legislation aims to simplify building procedures and create more flexible regulations, potentially accelerating future housing developments.
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