Rotterdam’s Rijnhaven gets green light for housing

ROTTERDAM, 16 April 2025 – A significant step forward has been made in the transformation of Rotterdam-Zuid’s Rijnhaven area, as the zoning plan has officially been declared definitive by the Council of State. With this ruling, objections raised during the consultation process have been overruled, allowing the extensive redevelopment to proceed in full.

Rijnhaven zoning plan approved, paving way for new city district

The Rijnhaven zoning plan (bestemmingsplan Rijnhaven) has been formally adopted following a final decision by the Council of State. The verdict marks the end of legal procedures and allows for the launch of one of Rotterdam’s most prominent urban renewal projects.

The redevelopment will convert the former port basin into a densely built yet green city district, with a mix of housing, public amenities and open space. The plan, previously endorsed by the municipal council, forms part of a broader strategy to strengthen the city centre on the southern bank of the Maas.

Housing and public space

Approximately 3,000 new homes will be built across various pricing categories, including social housing and market-rate properties. These will be complemented by hospitality venues, social facilities, and retail spaces at street level.

One of the most eye-catching features will be a high-rise building reaching up to 250 metres near the Nieuwe Luxor Theatre. The zoning also includes the construction of the Rijnhavenpark – a green area atop reclaimed land from the former harbour basin.

Rijnhaven zoning plan confirmed by Council of State, enabling the development of 3,000 homes, a park and public spaces in Rotterdam-Zuid.

Land reclamation progressing steadily

To prepare the area for development, more than 1.2 million cubic metres of sand have already been deposited into the basin. An additional 200,000 cubic metres will be delivered shortly by the vessel Strandway, arriving from the North Sea.

After a period of soil settlement, construction on the park and the first residential block is expected to commence in 2027. The first 200 trees for the future Rijnhavenpark are currently being cultivated at the municipal tree nursery.

Tendering to begin in 2025

The tendering process for the first construction plot, located near Rijnhaven metro station, is anticipated to start in mid-2025. This marks the next milestone in the long-term development of the Rijnhaven as part of the municipality’s designated “City Projects” programme for south Rotterdam.

Alderman Zeegers (Construction and Urban Development) stated: “With this decision, a long-standing ambition is becoming reality. The Rijnhaven is set to become a district where housing, nature and amenities are closely integrated. It is an important milestone for Rotterdam-Zuid.”

Rotterdam’s Rijnhaven gets green light for housing

Location and directions

The Rijnhaven area is situated on the southern bank of the river Maas, directly adjacent to the Wilhelminapier and within walking distance of the Erasmus Bridge. The development zone borders the Rijnhaven metro station and lies between Katendrecht and Kop van Zuid. Access is easiest via metro (line D or E), bicycle or on foot.