Municipality Accelerates Next Phase of Housing Construction in Merwede

The housing shortage in Utrecht remains high. Therefore, the municipality of Utrecht wants to keep up the pace with the development of the urban district Merwede.

17-09-2025

The housing shortage in Utrecht remains high. Therefore, the municipality of Utrecht wants to keep up the pace with the development of the urban district Merwede. For phase 1, the first 4,250 homes are being prepared or are already under construction. And with the approval of the Nota van Uitgangspunten for phase 2, the realization of the remaining 1,750 homes is also getting closer.

In the sustainable new residential area Merwede in Utrecht, a total of 6,000 homes will be built just a stones throw from the historic center of Utrecht. It will be a modern, urban, car-free area that has all the amenities.

The neighborhood offers a mix of living, working, and recreation - all within walking distance of each other. In addition to homes, there will be offices, schools, shops, and restaurants. Along the Merwede Canal, the Merwede Park will be created, where residents can enjoy nature and walk and exercise. The first homes will be delivered in 2027.

Councilor Eelco Eerenberg (Spatial Planning): “There is room for a lot of homes and workplaces in Merwede, and that is why it is important that we keep up the pace in construction. We are now taking this next step towards 1,750 homes on time so that we can continue. This way, we are building a neighborhood where people can live, work, and thrive – right in the city.”

Phase 2

The NvU aligns with the existing previous decision-making and incorporates lessons from phase 1. Several components have been adjusted, such as a green neighborhood square instead of a car entrance on the Koningin Wilhelminalaan. In addition, the locations for social and commercial facilities will be better aligned with the locations of the facilities in phase 1. Think of a primary school, gym, and childcare in a central location and space for social functions at the neighborhood square.

The expectation is that the construction activities in phase 1 will be completed in 2030. The aim is to continue building phase 2 from 2031 so that the new urban district Merwede can be completed without interruption. The NvU has been sent to the municipal council by the college, after which decision-making will follow.