With an additional investment of 562 million euros from the government and 160 million euros from the region, the next step can be taken in the development of Groot Merwede. This new investment is necessary to make 63,000 to 75,000 new homes in Groot Merwede and Rijnenburg accessible. Without these connections, the housing task in the region will come to a halt.
This contribution is in addition to previous commitments from the government, the municipalities of Utrecht and Nieuwegein, the province of Utrecht, and private parties. In total, approximately 1.8 billion euros is now available to further develop the tram line towards Nieuwegein. The Merwedelijn makes it possible to build and keep accessible new, affordable, and suitable homes for tens of thousands of people.
For the possible extension of the line towards Rijnenburg, the government and region are working further on financing, so that homes there can also be well and sustainably connected. This is a next phase that will be worked on in the coming period. The contribution shows that the government, like the region, recognizes the necessity of large-scale area development. The joint strong commitment of the province, municipalities of Utrecht and Nieuwegein, public and private partners has been essential in the allocation of these funds.
Housing and accessibility hand in hand
The Utrecht region is one of the fastest growing areas in the Netherlands, with a great need for affordable housing and space for employment. Groot Merwede and Rijnenburg together form the largest housing location in the country, with space for 63,000 to 75,000 homes and 33,500 to 45,500 jobs. The Merwedelijn is an important step to develop these new residential areas to be accessible, attractive, and livable, without the road network becoming congested.
Deputy for Economy André van Schie (province of Utrecht): “This investment contributes to a strong and future-proof Metropolitan Region Utrecht. From the allocated funds, Utrecht Central Station will also be expanded and improved as a public transport hub, which is positive for accessibility throughout the province. By adding the Merwedelijn, we connect living, working, and accessibility, strengthening our regional economy. A well-accessible area attracts businesses, stimulates growth, and ensures that people can travel quickly and sustainably.”
Alderman for Spatial Development Eelco Eerenberg (Utrecht): “This amount is essential for the construction of tens of thousands of homes. For starters, families, and people who have been waiting a long time for a place in or near Utrecht. With the Merwedelijn, we ensure a well-accessible new urban expansion, so that people can live, work, and travel comfortably. Housing and accessibility belong together. We urgently need those homes. Not only for people currently looking for a house in Utrecht but also for the Utrechters and Nieuwegeiners of the future.”
Alderman for Mobility Ellie Eggengoor (Nieuwegein): “We are very happy with this additional investment from the government. Only by working together can we solve the enormous housing shortage. The Merwedelijn is crucial to making tens of thousands of new homes and jobs easily accessible. Without a fast connection to Utrecht Central, the region will come to a standstill. This is a leap forward in public transport from which residents of the entire region benefit.”
Also investments in additional housing projects
In addition to the Merwedelijn, 35 million euros will be made available for Overvecht and Northwest to strengthen livability and accelerate housing construction. This can speed up the development of approximately 4,500 homes. At this time, no contribution has been allocated for Utrecht Science Park. The region continues to discuss this with the government because solutions are also needed there for accessibility and growth.
Additionally, Nieuwegein receives 20 million euros from the government for relocating Sportpark Galecop, allowing the area development of Groot Merwede to continue. These investments help to get new residential neighborhoods off the ground earlier.
For press information:
jelmer.geerds@provincie-utrecht.nl
06 42 47 30 33
