Province Stimulates Urban and Village Renewal in Drenthe

The province of Drenthe is taking a new step in enhancing the livability and future viability of villages and cities in Drenthe. With an investment of over €10 million, the province supports both villages and cities in further development aimed at vital centers, strong communities, and space for new business activities.

Published on September 17, 2025 (at 15:00)

Livable Villages

For the smaller cores, the province of Drenthe introduces the new Subsidy Scheme for Village Renewal with €5 million allocated. With this scheme, the province supports social and physical initiatives that contribute to enhancing livability and community strength in Drenthes villages. Municipalities can apply for a subsidy together with villages starting from October 1, 2025. The scheme aims to contribute to vital villages and strong communities. Thus, the province aims to promote broad prosperity for all residents of Drenthe.

Deputy Yvonne Turenhout: “Livable villages are the strength of Drenthe. That is why we will focus on strengthening our villages in the coming years. With this scheme, we collectively provide an impulse to facilities and community spirit.”

Strong Centers

With the renewed Large Cores Fund, the province supports plans in the five large cores: Roden (municipality of Noordenveld), Beilen (Midden-Drenthe), Coevorden, Klazienaveen (municipality of Emmen), and Zuidlaren (municipality of Tynaarlo). These cores receive support for projects that counteract vacancy, attract new business, and ensure an attractive offering of shops, catering, and facilities. The money will be used, among other things, to make the central areas more attractive. Thus, the province contributes to centers where people like to come and entrepreneurs have the space to grow.

Deputy Yvonne Turenhout: Strong centers are important for residents and entrepreneurs. They ensure a good offering of shops, catering, and facilities and make the cores attractive to live, work, and meet each other. With the Large Cores Fund, we help these municipalities to make their centers lively and future-proof. Residents, visitors, and entrepreneurs directly benefit from this.

Lively City Centers

Additionally, the province continues the approach of the Regional Cities Fund and invests €4 million in strengthening the city centers of Emmen, Assen, Hoogeveen, and Meppel. These city centers fulfill an important regional function and form the beating heart of their surroundings. By investing in these centers, the province aims to contribute to future-proof cities with an offering that meets the needs of residents, entrepreneurs, and visitors from the entire care area.

Deputy Willemien Meeuwissen: “When I walk through Drenthes city centers, I see how important a lively city center is. Not only for the people who live there but for those who work there or visit the region. With the Regional Cities Fund, we help Emmen, Assen, Hoogeveen, and Meppel ensure that the city centers are attractive places to live, do business, and meet.”