This first signing marks the next step in the provincial ambition to collaborate long-term and integrally in eight Limburg areas to build strong communities.

From Planning to Doing Together

Deputy Marc van Caldenberg: ‘Today we take the next step in our area-based approach: from planning to doing together. In Kerkrade-East, we join forces with residents, organizations, and the municipality to structurally work on livable neighborhoods and equal opportunities. This way, we build strong communities throughout Limburg from practical experience. It is great that Kerkrade is the first to take this step.’

BOOST for Kerkrade-East

The collaboration in Kerkrade-East takes shape within the (B)OOST program – Together for a vibrant future in Kerkrade-East. The municipality works together with HEEMwonen, Wonen-Zuid, Impuls, MeanderGroep, and with residents, entrepreneurs, and social organizations in the neighborhood. The partners combine their efforts to create a safe, healthy, and social living environment where residents are actively involved in the future of their neighborhood.

Alderman Alexander Geers (Municipality of Kerkrade): ‘Together with the Province, our alliance partners, and the residents of Kerkrade-East, we focus on a positive and sustainable transformation of the neighborhood. A strong neighborhood starts with the strength of its residents: and that strength is abundant here!’

The cooperation agreement brings together ongoing and planned projects in the fields of housing, care, safety, education, community centers, youth initiatives, and basic skills. In total, about 150 initiatives jointly contribute to one integral vision: a vibrant, future-oriented neighborhood where everyone feels at home.

Provincial Approach with Impact

The goal of the agreements is to achieve sustainable improvements in every priority neighborhood or village in Limburg through joint implementation plans and concrete agreements on responsibilities and goals. The Province of Limburg invests a total of 12 million euros in this area-based approach, intended to make a structural impact on livability and social security. Additionally, in cooperation with the Ministry of the Interior, a learning network is being developed so that experiences from Limburg can serve as an example for other regions in the Netherlands.