Nijkerk secures historic De Havenaer complex for future urban development
The municipality of Nijkerk has acquired the iconic De Havenaer complex, a historic site spanning 12,000 m². This purchase aims to transform the area into a vibrant space for living and business, preserving its rich heritage while shaping the city’s future.
| Key Data Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Western part of the Havenkom, Nijkerk, Gelderland |
| Size | 12,000 m² commercial space + 7,500 m² land |
| Historic Features | Water tower, ropeway, monumental status |
| Previous Use | Chocolate factory (1907–1983), later offices, shops, and hospitality |
| Current Tenant | Lidl supermarket (part of the site) |
| Seller | Lidl Netherlands |
| Sale Advisor | JLL |
| Municipal Approval | December 16, 2025 |
| Transfer Date | March 17, 2026 |
| Future Plans | Long-term vision for living and business development |
The municipality of Nijkerk is responsible for urban planning and development within its jurisdiction. By acquiring the De Havenaer complex, it gains control over a strategic location to shape the city’s growth while preserving its cultural heritage. Municipalities in the Netherlands often play a key role in balancing economic development with historical preservation.
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Municipality acquires De Havenaer complex in Nijkerk
The municipality of Nijkerk has purchased the De Havenaer complex. The iconic complex was built in 1907 and served as a chocolate factory until 1983. In the 1990s, the complex was converted into a multifunctional space housing offices, shops, and hospitality venues. The entire complex spans approximately 12,000 m² of commercial space, a business residence, 7,500 m² of land, a historic water tower, and a ropeway. A large portion of the complex holds monumental status.
The seller, Lidl Netherlands, acquired the complex in 2014 with plans to build a new supermarket. Part of the site is now used as a supermarket and plays an important role for Nijkerk and the surrounding area. Lidl has now decided to sell the remaining buildings, allowing the supermarket chain to focus entirely on its retail operations while creating opportunities for further development of the area.
Last year, Lidl Netherlands invited the municipality to participate in the sales process. The negotiations resulted in an agreement for the municipality to purchase the complex. On December 16, 2025, the municipal council approved the acquisition in a closed meeting.
The complex is located in the western part of the Havenkom. The municipality aims to develop this area in the long term into a future-proof space for living and business. Drafting a long-term vision is the first step in this process.
Deputy Mayor Esther Heutink-Wenderich emphasized the importance of the acquisition: “With this purchase, the municipality secures a key strategic position between the city center and the Arkervaart industrial estate. This complex has a rich history and is therefore a valuable location for the further development of the entire area.”
The transfer of the complex to the municipality is scheduled for March 17. All existing lease agreements will be taken over, allowing current tenants to remain. Spaces that become available in the future will be offered through the municipality’s standard procedures.
Lidl Netherlands was assisted by JLL in the sale.