The station area in Groningen is about to undergo massive changes, especially the south side of the central station, as seen in the accompanying photos. Currently, it resembles a barren plain, but over the next ten years, it will be completely transformed, according to the Groninger Internet Courant.
What it will look like then is anyone’s guess. It is possible that a new Oosterpoort cultural center will be built there, and possibly also a Martiniplaza. The municipality is busy calculating and drawing, but is also still investigating whether the cultural center could perhaps be moved to the SuikerUnie grounds in the southwest of the city.
Mixed-use development possible
It is also conceivable that the area depicted in the photos could be designated for housing development, a hotel, or apartments.
In any case, this is a highly valuable piece of real estate. Hopefully, Groningen will handle it with utmost care, ensuring that the outcome is nothing short of magnificent. Ill-advised decisions could mar this view significantly.
Efforts are already underway to construct a tunnel beneath the area, facilitating easy cycling from north to south and vice versa.
Bus underpass construction starts
Last month marked the start of the construction of the foundation pit for the southern entrance of the bus underpass at Groningen station. It will be located near Achterweg-Viaductstraat, at the rear end.
The new bus station will be situated on the southern side of Groningen station. Buses will be able to reach it through a tunnel under the tracks leading to the north side of the station. To build this tunnel, contractor Strukton Civiel is now creating a construction pit.
It is anticipated that all retaining wall planks on the south side of the tracks will be in place by Friday, October 13.
For more information about the ongoing work at Groningen station area please visit the Groningen Spoorzone website.
