Together with the Central Agency for the Reception of Asylum Seekers (COA), the municipality of Utrecht intends to make the office building at Europalaan 44 suitable for asylum reception for a longer period. The building has been used as a temporary reception location since May 2024. If the municipal council makes a positive decision, after renovation, a maximum of 385 asylum seekers will be accommodated for a period of up to 15 years starting in 2028. Like other Utrecht asylum locations with a community function, it will operate according to Plan Einstein, an approach that connects refugees, surrounding businesses, residents, other Utrecht residents, and organizations.

Rachel Streefland, alderman for Asylum: “In the future, Utrecht wants to continue to contribute to the reception of refugees as a human rights city. The experiences at this location and in the surrounding area are good, so I am pleased with this sustainable reception location and the integration of Plan Einstein. This way, people can continue to meet, develop, and build a social community.”

Cheaper, more pleasant, and quieter

The pressure on the reception of asylum seekers in the Netherlands is very high, causing asylum seekers to often be accommodated in expensive, temporary emergency locations that are unsuitable for long-term stays. With the realization of sustainable reception, we ensure good accommodation that meets the COAs standards while being less expensive. This is more pleasant for the asylum seekers themselves and brings more peace to the city. The municipal council will discuss the proposal in November. 

Plan Einstein

Plan Einstein is Utrechts approach where refugees not only receive shelter but also opportunities to learn skills and develop themselves. By collaborating and learning, contact, exchange, and a network are created. In the living room of asylum reception locations, newcomers, surrounding businesses, and neighborhood residents can meet, collaborate, and participate in activities such as cooking together, movie nights, and educational activities. Everyone from the neighborhood is welcome. The activities are organized with and by various Utrecht organizations, the neighborhood, and in cooperation with the COA.   

Future

The location is part of the Merwedekanaalzone. The final development of this area will only take place in the long term. Therefore, this location will be available for a maximum of 15 years. For now, the location will remain in use for temporary reception. In January 2027, the building will be vacated so that the COA can begin with the renovation and furnishing of the building and the outdoor space.

More information about asylum reception in Utrecht can be found at Reception for newcomers | Municipality of Utrecht.

Help and Contact Municipality of Utrecht

Visiting address

Stadsplateau 1
3521 AZ Utrecht

Mailing address

P.O. Box 16200
3500 CE Utrecht

 

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