With additional measures, the construction of the Cortelande housing project in the municipality of Zuidplas is possible. All parties involved agree on this. This is evident from the final advice ‘It Can’ by independent advisor Wim Kuijken, prepared on behalf of the Minister of Housing and Spatial Planning. This advice now forms the basis for reaching administrative agreements.
Restoring Trust
Cortelande has long been considered for housing development. The construction of the new village Cortelande involves 8,000 homes and two new business parks. Mr. Kuijken was appointed to restore trust among the various stakeholders. Rijkswaterstaat, the Schieland and Krimpenerwaard Water Boards had expressed concerns about water management, soil quality, and mobility. After an intensive process, these parties agreed on a package of measures. This restored trust.
Concrete Measures
The municipality of Zuidplas, the province of South Holland, the Schieland and Krimpenerwaard Water Boards, landowners, and the national government have jointly worked on concrete measures in the areas of mobility, water, soil, and financing. All parties endorse the package and intend to formalize it administratively in the coming months so that decision-making can be completed. The first phase – accounting for over 2,500 homes – can start in 2028.
Follow-up and Completion
Mr. Kuijken remains involved as an advisor until all agreements are formally recorded and a sustainable implementation organization can be established. This brings the realization of the new village Cortelande in the municipality of Zuidplas closer quickly.
