IJmond municipalities unite to transform vulnerable neighborhoods with €18 million funding
Residents in 35 vulnerable neighborhoods across Velsen, Beverwijk, and Heemskerk can expect long-term improvements in housing, safety, and living conditions. A new joint initiative, backed by €18 million, aims to tackle persistent issues through stronger regional collaboration and integrated solutions.
| Key Data | Details |
|---|---|
| Municipalities Involved | Velsen, Beverwijk, Heemskerk |
| Neighborhoods Targeted | 35 vulnerable neighborhoods |
| Residents Affected | Roughly one-third of all IJmond residents |
| Funding Allocated | €18 million |
| Focus Areas | Housing, health, safety, financial vulnerability, living environment quality |
| Partners Involved | Municipalities, national government, province, housing corporations, social partners |
| Program Name | Urban Renewal IJmond |
| Timeline for Pact Signing | End of 2026 |
The IJmond municipalities are responsible for local governance, urban planning, and improving livability in their regions. This initiative reflects their role in coordinating with higher government bodies and social partners to address systemic challenges in vulnerable neighborhoods. The national government supports such efforts through targeted funding to promote regional development and sustainability.
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IJmond municipalities tackle urban renewal together
The three IJmond municipalities have taken an important joint step in addressing urban renewal. Under the banner “Strong IJmond, we do this together,” the municipalities are laying the foundation for an integrated, coherent, and long-term approach to livability issues in vulnerable neighborhoods in Velsen, Beverwijk, and Heemskerk.
In 35 neighborhoods across the three municipalities — home to roughly one-third of all IJmond residents — problems have been mounting for years. These include issues related to housing, health, safety, financial vulnerability, and the quality of the living environment.
With this new approach, the IJmond municipalities will better align their existing efforts, seize untapped opportunities in their current methods, and structurally strengthen cooperation between municipalities, the national government, the province, housing corporations, and social partners. For residents, this means a coherent and long-term commitment to better housing, a healthier living environment, and greater prospects for the future in their neighborhoods.
The cabinet has made funds available for investments in the livability of regions where electricity from offshore wind farms comes ashore. A total of €18 million has been allocated for this initiative. By working together, not only will regional collaboration be strengthened, but a solid foundation will also be laid for nationwide prioritization of urban renewal in the IJmond.
Urban Renewal IJmond Program
Under the banner “Strong IJmond, we do this together,” collaboration is underway with residents, housing corporations, educational institutions, employers, and social organizations. In 2026, the joint IJmond-wide agreements will be further developed, with the goal of signing a pact with all partners by the end of the year.
Urban Renewal IJmond is one of the key projects outlined in the joint strategy “Development Perspective North Sea Canal Area,” which was established in December 2023 by the national government, the region, and partners.
Councilor Sander Smeets of Velsen: “It’s good that we’re doing this together. Not just the three of us, but also with our partners, such as the province, the national government, and all social partners.”
Councilor Attiya Gamri: “In Heemskerk, we will invest in the neighborhoods where more is needed. Better homes, a more pleasant living environment, and more attention for residents. The collaboration in the IJmond, in my view, gives us extra strength and energy.”
Councilor Ali Bal (Beverwijk): “Urban renewal is essential for the development of our neighborhoods. We are not only focusing on physical improvements but also on strengthening livability, social cohesion, and safety. By working together in the IJmond, we can build even better neighborhoods where everyone feels at home and enjoys living.”