Municipality forces sale of abandoned Rabobank building to revive Vriezenveen square
After years of deadlock, the municipality of Vriezenveen is taking legal action to acquire the vacant Rabobank building at Manitobaplein. The move aims to end stagnation and kickstart redevelopment, improving the area for residents and businesses.
| Key Data Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Manitobaplein, Vriezenveen |
| Property | Former Rabobank building |
| Owners | Two owners, each with a 50% stake |
| Issue | One owner refuses to align with municipal redevelopment plans |
| Municipal Action | Expropriation procedure initiated |
| Future Plans | New construction to replace the building; greener design for De Vriezenhof |
| Current Tenant | Snackbar De Tamboer (will remain in place) |
| Alderman | Marcus Elzinga |
The municipality of Vriezenveen is responsible for urban development and ensuring that properties within its jurisdiction meet community standards. In this case, it is using its legal authority to address a long-standing issue that has hindered local progress and quality of life.
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Expropriation must put an end to years of stagnation
The municipality is initiating an expropriation procedure for the former Rabobank building at Manitobaplein. This is a formal step that allows the municipality to take over the property if the owner does not cooperate. The building has been vacant for years and is in poor condition. According to alderman Marcus Elzinga, intervention is necessary to revive the development of the square: “Without this measure, we cannot move forward.”
The property has two owners, each holding a 50 percent stake. One owner insists on a plan that does not align with municipal policy, leaving the building a persistent problem. The other owner is willing to cooperate and recognizes the benefits for the area. As a result, they have ended their collaboration. With the owners no longer working together, redevelopment is impossible, and the area has been at a standstill for years.
Alderman Elzinga describes the situation as harmful to Vriezenveen. “We have been held hostage for years by one real estate owner with a plan that fails to meet, among other things, parking standards,” he says. In his view, the building is an eyesore for the neighborhood. The municipality previously attempted to reach agreements, and a developer submitted a generous offer, but this was rejected by the owner. As a result, alternative solutions had to be considered.
The municipality has outlined how the square should look in the future. The former Rabobank site will be replaced by new construction. Across the square, De Vriezenhof is working on a greener and more modern building. These plans complement the square and the recognizable tree-lined avenue. Thanks to the pre-emption right, the municipality can purchase the property first. The expropriation will enable development to proceed. Snackbar De Tamboer can remain in its current location.