Velp's Buitenplaats Beekhuizen moves closer to sustainable transformation
Residents of Velp and nature enthusiasts can soon enjoy a revamped, eco-friendly Buitenplaats Beekhuizen. The municipal council will decide on plans to transform the former campsite into a sustainable holiday retreat, enhancing local biodiversity and aligning with Gelderland’s environmental vision.
| Key Data Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Buitenplaats Beekhuizen, Velp (next to Nationaal Park Veluwezoom) |
| Previous Use | Family campsite with ~150 pitches |
| New Accommodation Units | 50 |
| Sustainability Measures | Energy-efficient buildings, gas-to-electric transition, green roofs |
| Nature Enhancements | Native planting, nectar plants, biodiversity boost |
| Provincial Approval | Yes (Gelderland) |
| Public Consultation Period | 6 weeks (if council approves on 17 March 2026) |
| Council Decision Date | 17 March 2026 |
The municipality of Rheden is responsible for local spatial planning and environmental policy, ensuring developments like Buitenplaats Beekhuizen align with regional sustainability goals. The Province of Gelderland oversees broader environmental and recreational planning, approving projects that balance nature conservation with public access.
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external link to whydonate.comRead the full translated article below
Step forward for a sustainable future for Buitenplaats Beekhuizen
We are taking an important step forward for the future of Buitenplaats Beekhuizen in Velp. On 17 March, the municipal council will decide on the draft declaration of no objections. If the council approves, the plans for the recreational area can proceed.
The estate is located in a wooded area next to Nationaal Park Veluwezoom. It was previously used as a busy family campsite with around 150 camping pitches. Over the past few years, it has been transformed into a small-scale and sustainable holiday concept that contributes to the quality of the landscape. With this decision, the long-term development of the area will be secured.
In harmony with the surroundings
The plan allows for a total of 50 accommodation units. Some supporting buildings may also be replaced and made more sustainable. Everything will be carefully integrated into the natural environment. The scale will remain clearly limited, ensuring that the estate remains small-scale, tranquil, and in keeping with the character of the area. This aligns directly with the new Omgevingsvisie (Environmental Vision), which prioritises tranquillity, quality, and respect for the landscape.
Collaboration for nature enhancement
A key principle for both the municipality of Rheden and the project initiator is that the plan must contribute to improved natural values. This is not only desirable but a strict policy requirement.
Buitenplaats Beekhuizen is investing in further sustainability measures that fully align with the ambitions of the Omgevingsvisie:• The buildings will be energy-efficient,• The site will transition from gas to fully electric installations,• Paths and quiet zones will be carefully designed,• Biodiversity will be enhanced through new nature measures, such as green roofs and the addition of native planting, including nectar plants. This will give the area a clear sustainable boost.
Province approves the plans
The Province of Gelderland has positively assessed the plans. It believes that Buitenplaats Beekhuizen demonstrates well how recreation and nature can coexist. The province has also positively advised on the enhancement plan, which includes additional nature measures on and around the site. This will not only protect but also improve the natural environment. The draft environmental permit (Natura 2000) is currently available for public inspection.
Involvement of the local community
Since 2023, the project initiator has maintained open and active communication with the local community. This included an information evening, open-house sessions, discussions with organisations, and updates via newsletters and the website. Residents were able to ask questions and share ideas.
Councillor Paul Hofman: “This plan perfectly aligns with what we consider important in our Omgevingsvisie: tranquillity, respect for nature, and recreation that does not burden the landscape. Together with the project initiator, we are working towards a place where people can enjoy themselves while truly enhancing nature. That is our guiding principle for the future.”
Public consultation period
If the municipal council approves the draft declaration on 17 March, a six-week public consultation period will begin immediately thereafter. During this time, residents and other stakeholders can review the draft declaration, the draft permit, and associated documents and submit a response (a view or objection). If no objections are received, the declaration will automatically become final. The environmental permit can then be issued.