Kronenburg's Croydon Square transforms into green oasis with 2,000 sqm of new plants
Residents of Arnhem’s Kronenburg district now enjoy a revitalized Croydon Square, now a mini-park with nearly 2,000 square meters of greenery. The renovation combats heat, supports biodiversity, and offers a cooler, more inviting space for locals to meet and relax.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Croydon Square, Kronenburg district, Arnhem |
| Paving replaced | Nearly 2,000 square meters |
| New features | Trees, plants, benches, picnic area |
| Future upgrades | Misting system, heat network connectivity |
| Artist involved | Dick de Wit (artworks refresh) |
| Project start | May 2025 |
| Completion | October 2025 |
| Official opening | March 17, 2026 |
| Local participants | Pascha Kapelle, Jan van Dodeweerd |
| Councillor involved | Cathelijne Bouwkamp |
The municipality of Arnhem initiated this project as part of its urban greening strategy to improve livability and climate resilience in neighborhoods. Local governments often lead such renovations to enhance public spaces and address environmental challenges like heat stress and waterlogging.
No ☕ no Openrijk
A lot of hard work happens behind the scenes. Good coffee is more than welcome :)
Read the full translated article below
Croydon Square has been renovated and made greener
The renovated Croydon Square in the Kronenburg district was officially opened on Tuesday, March 17. The square has undergone a major facelift. Where previously there was mostly stone, nearly 2,000 square meters of paving has now been replaced with trees and plants.
Councillor Cathelijne Bouwkamp unveiled a new picnic bench together with two local residents, Pascha Kapelle and Jan van Dodeweerd.
Greening the square
Replacing paving with trees and plants not only makes the square more colourful but also encourages more insects, such as butterflies and bees. More greenery also helps combat heat and waterlogging. Trees and plants provide cooling on hot days and better absorb rainwater.
From square to mini-park
During several meetings, local residents were able to share their ideas. The work began in May 2025. By October, the final paving work was completed. With new planting and benches, the square has been transformed into a small neighbourhood park. A pleasant place to meet, play or simply sit quietly.
The square has also been designed with the future in mind
For example, a misting system could be installed later for extra cooling. Pipes have already been laid under the square to connect to a heat network. The artworks by artist Dick de Wit will receive a facelift later this year.