The Province of Drenthe has granted the first subsidies from the Regiostedenfonds 2.0 to the municipalities of Emmen and Meppel. This scheme helps the province to make the four largest inner cities (Hoogeveen, Emmen, Meppel, and Assen) strong, attractive, and ready for the future. This is important for residents, entrepreneurs, and visitors. The support contributes to a pleasant living environment and a healthy economy in Drenthe.
Deputy Willemien Meeuwissen: “The municipalities of Emmen and Meppel are both taking strong steps to make their inner cities stronger and more attractive. Therefore, the province supports both municipalities with a contribution of 1 million euros each from the Regiostedenfonds 2.0.”
Emmen: boost for an attractive city center
Emmen continues to build on its ambition as a supra-regional city with a strong center. Projects from the previous fund (Regiostedenfonds 1.0) are already underway, such as the entrance of Rensenpark and the renovation of the Biochron for the DIEP art center. Emmen is also working on better bicycle accessibility and the development of the area between Markt and De Weiert, with plans for the library and the former V&D building.
The municipality also sees new opportunities. Emmen wants to make the shopping area more attractive, including a quality boost for the De Weiert shopping center and greening. Emmen also wants to strengthen cooperation with involved partners in the center and create more space for culture and meeting in Rensenpark.
Alderman Guido Rink: “With this contribution, we are taking an important step towards a stronger and more attractive city center. We invest in quality, greening, and culture and work together with our partners on a lively and future-proof inner city for everyone.”
Meppel: inner city in action
Meppel is working on a future-proof inner city and wants to further strengthen its role as a regional city. With support from the previous Regiostedenfonds, much has already improved in public spaces, such as Prinsenplein and Bleekerseiland. Housing has also increased by converting vacant shops. Events and population growth bring liveliness but also challenges, such as parking pressure and nuisance.
Therefore, Meppel now focuses on better mobility and parking, and on more quality and attractiveness in and around the center. The municipality continues the facade improvement subsidy, with extra attention to cultural history and characteristic buildings. Meppel also wants to green the canal area, with attention to climate, nature, and a pleasant appearance. Furthermore, there is a budget for adjustments in public spaces related to safety, parking, and events. Finally, Meppel strengthens local cooperation in the inner city and offers hospitality training.
Alderman Robin van Ulzen: “I am very proud of our inner city and everything we achieve together with entrepreneurs, residents, and partners. Meppel has unique elements that we want to cherish and strengthen. With this support, we can continue building a lively, hospitable, and future-proof inner city where Meppel residents and visitors feel at home.”
An application for the Regiostedenfonds 2.0 (refers to another website) is expected from the municipalities of Hoogeveen and Assen later this year.