Lichtenvoorde transforms old library site into vibrant city square with art and greenery
Residents of Lichtenvoorde can look forward to a revitalized city center as construction begins on a new activity square. The project, set to finish by mid-2026, will offer green spaces, parking, and student-designed artworks, though temporary disruptions are expected.
| Key Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Lichtenvoorde city center, Gelderland |
| Project Start Date | March 16, 2024 |
| Expected Completion | End of June 2026 |
| Contractor | Dusseldorp ISM |
| Parking Spaces (Dijkstraat) | 7 (including 2 for people with disabilities) |
| Parking Spaces (Dr. Besselinkstraat) | 60 (including 4 with EV charging points) |
| Artworks | "Flora Mechanica" (Danique, Liv, Fem) and "Verbonden door Licht" (Emre et al.) |
| Features | New trees, flower beds, hedges, modern lighting, multifunctional event space |
The municipality of Oost Gelre, responsible for Lichtenvoorde, oversees urban development projects to enhance public spaces and community engagement. This initiative reflects their commitment to creating accessible, sustainable, and culturally enriched environments for residents.
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Construction of new activity square in Lichtenvoorde city center begins
Construction of the new activity square in Lichtenvoorde has begun. Alderman Jos Hoenderboom officially launched the project on Monday morning, March 16, by removing part of the hedge. Over the coming months, contractor Dusseldorp ISM will work on the new square.
The work started with the excavator removing part of the hedge, marking the beginning of the activities.
Alderman Hoenderboom: “It’s great that we are all here to mark this moment. This project followed a long period of preparation. Residents and other stakeholders have played an important role in this. Our sincere thanks for that. Now the actual work is starting. This will cause temporary inconvenience, but ultimately the square will become a beautiful place for the city center.”
Green, inviting, and future-ready
The old library stood on this site until 2021. After its demolition, the area was temporarily used as an asphalted parking lot. Now, a new square with two functions will be created. On the side of Dijkstraat, there will be an open and multifunctional square. This space will accommodate activities and events. There will also be 7 parking spaces on Dijkstraat, including 2 designated for people with disabilities.
On Dr. Besselinkstraat, there will be 60 parking spaces, 4 of which will have electric vehicle charging points. The area will feature a greener layout with new trees, flower-rich planting beds, and hedges. Modern lighting will also be installed, creating an attractive and versatile spot in the city center.
KUNZZTIG art project
The activity square will also feature two artworks designed by students from Marianum Lichtenvoorde. The winning design, “Flora Mechanica,” was created by Danique, Liv, and Fem. The other winning design, “Verbonden door Licht” (Connected by Light), was developed by Emre, Noud, Jelmer, and Storm. In the coming period, professionals will assess how and in what form these artworks can be realized.
Temporary closure and parking restrictions
The construction work is expected to last until the end of June 2026. During this period, the site will be closed and parking will not be possible. In the autumn, the planting will be installed. If you visit the city center, we recommend coming by bike to help reduce parking pressure in the area.