The urban landscape of Leeuwarden is in for a verdant transformation in the upcoming years, aiming for a greener and more accessible city center, Omrop Fryslân reports. The local council draws inspiration from last year’s Bosk project, which briefly brought sprawling forests to various spots across Leeuwarden, turning areas like Oldehoofsterkerkhof, the station area, and Zaailand into green spaces.
Hein de Haan, the council member, emphasizes: “The Bosk project demonstrated the significant impact of greenery, benefiting not just the city’s visitors and residents but also the climate.”
Fewer cars and more trees
Presenting a ten-year vision, councilors Hein de Haan and Evert Stellingwerf highlighted ambitious plans for the city center, with substantial investments set to revamp its core. Among the projects is the redesign of Nieuwstad, aimed at enhancing its appeal and fostering community interaction.
“We’ve recently revamped Waagplein, and it’s evident that we need more greenery,” De Haan stated. “We want to create more spaces where people can relax, enjoy themselves, and connect with others.”
Numerous areas across the city are slated for redevelopment. “We have around 20 to 25 measures in mind, but we’ll start with 5,” De Haan added.
Eewal, a street near Café De Walrus, is one such project. While efforts have already begun to reduce traffic, Stellingwerf believes more can be done. “We previously decided to limit cars on Eewal, but it hasn’t worked as intended. We aim to improve that now.”
Plans include planting trees and green spaces while installing surveillance cameras to monitor traffic volume accurately.
Community-driven revitalization
While the plans for Eewal are well-defined, those for Nieuwstad are still evolving. De Haan asserted that community engagement is pivotal. “We’re no longer drafting plans within the town hall; we’re involving the residents.” How this engagement will transpire remains uncertain, but De Haan stressed the importance of involving locals, businesses, and visitors in envisioning the new Nieuwstad.
The city aims to introduce more spaces for movement, advocating for walking and running routes. Additionally, the station area will transform into a greener gateway to the city.
“Our city center is a gem, the heart of Friesland, and we are determined to preserve its charm,” De Haan said. Stellingwerf envisions a Leeuwarden transformed into a green paradise by 2030, teeming with content and relaxed inhabitants who revel in its beauty.
The city officials say Leeuwarden’s upcoming metamorphosis has the potential to redefine its essential character, offering a stimulating and nature-rich experience for both residents and visitors.