Utrecht approves next phase of Lunettenpark: new walking routes and restored heritage for 2027
Utrecht’s Lunettenpark is set to expand with new walking routes, restored earthen ramparts, and improved green spaces by 2027. Residents can soon enjoy enhanced access to the UNESCO-listed New Dutch Water Line, blending history, nature, and recreation in their backyard.
| Key Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Project Name | Lunettenpark Part 2 |
| Approval Date | March 20, 2026 |
| Implementation Timeline | 2027–2028 |
| Key Features | Walking route around Koningsweg sports park, restored Lunet II rampart, green spaces |
| Location | Maarschalkerweerd, Utrecht (New Dutch Water Line UNESCO site) |
| Collaborators | Municipality of Utrecht, local businesses, residents, visitors |
| Additional Project | Sportboulevard Zuid (sports-focused boulevard along Kampong sports fields) |
| Lighting & Furniture Design | Liniemeubilair (uniform design reflecting Water Line heritage) |
The municipality of Utrecht is responsible for developing and maintaining public spaces like Lunettenpark, ensuring they serve as accessible, green, and historically rich areas for residents. This project aligns with its role in preserving UNESCO World Heritage Sites while promoting recreation and community engagement.
News tastes better here ☕
No paywall, no ads, just news. And hopefully an extra cup of coffee now and then.
Read the full translated article below
Lunettenpark Part 2 Approved: New Walking Routes, Green Spaces, and Accessible Heritage
The design for Lunettenpark Part 2 has been approved by the municipal executive board (B & W). It includes the layout of a new walking route around the Koningsweg sports park and the development of the front and rear areas of Lunet II. Meanwhile, the results of Part 1 of the park are already clearly visible; the new Damsluisbrug bridge was opened in December, and a new walking path along the Oud Wulverbroekwetering has recently been completed.
Lunettenpark is part of the Parklandschap Maarschalkerweerd. The municipality is collaborating with local businesses, residents, and visitors to create a green, open, and accessible area. The park centers around the unique historical UNESCO World Heritage Site of the New Dutch Water Line, offering space for walking, recreation, play, and relaxation.
Three Phases
The development of Lunettenpark is divided into three phases. Part 1 has been underway since 2023. In addition to the Damsluisbrug bridge and the new walking path, a section of the traverse (earthen rampart) at Lunet I has been restored. Other additions include a bench along the Jaagpad, picnic sets, information boards, and a viewing device. The viewing device gives visitors an impression of what soldiers saw through the sights of their rifles.
The implementation of Part 2, which has been approved today, is scheduled for 2027 and 2028. In addition to creating a green walking route around the sports park, an earthen rampart will be restored at Lunet II, complete with a footpath behind it. In the past, soldiers sought cover here from enemy fire. The green spaces will be better designed to fit the Kromme Rijn area and the wildlife that inhabits it.
The final phase of Lunettenpark, Part 3, involves the development of the front area of Lunet I. Discussions are still ongoing with the organizations based there, including Scouting Utrecht Oost.
Overview of Lunettenpark
Furniture and Lighting
The park’s lighting and seating furniture will follow a single design to reflect the connection with the Water Line; this is known as the Liniemeubilair. To enhance safety in the area, temporary street lamps have been installed along the Rijndijk. At the same time, efforts are being made to balance safety with minimal disruption to nocturnal animals. The temporary street lamps will eventually be replaced by the Linielantaarn.
Last year, the restoration of the forts on the four lunettes was completed, and a public tender was held for the rental of the forts. Later this year, the municipality will select parties that will be allowed to lease the heritage sites.
Sportboulevard Zuid
The municipal executive board also approved the design for ‘Sportboulevard Zuid’ in Maarschalkerweerd today. A sports boulevard will be created along the sports fields of Kampong, focused on sports and physical activity, and connecting to existing walking routes in the area. It will be an accessible space for people of all ages, whether visiting individually, in groups, or as part of an association. Activities could include warm-ups, running, boot camps, playing football, or calisthenics training. This will turn Parklandschap Maarschalkerweerd into an area where green spaces, sports, and heritage take center stage. See more about the sports boulevard here.