Edison Park

Walk-in meeting on November 12, 2024

On November 12, 2024, a walk-in meeting was held. During this meeting, the municipality and the Development Combination informed interested parties about various themes of the Edisonpark project, such as the spatial procedure, mobility, the design and layout of the public space, and the process and planning of the project. The organizers also answered questions from those present.

Below are some photos from the meeting, including a view of the project's model.

Residents were able to contribute their opinions on the Preliminary Design (VO) Urban Development Plan and the Visual Quality Plan for Edisonpark (the former allotment garden location Kwadrant B&F). This was done via an online information evening, an online survey, small meetings with stakeholders, and a presentation to the Accessibility Council.

Background

The municipality of Zoetermeer is working with developers AM, Synchroon, and Dura Vermeer to build up to 550 homes in a park-like environment with lots of greenery. The plan was previously discussed with residents in 2018, and the response was positive. In 2021, it was decided to involve residents again and also to draw up a Visual Quality Plan.

Topics of participation

• Urban Development Plan: design of public spaces, community living, shared indoor areas, and mobility; traffic and parking.
• Image quality plan: assessment of how the area looks, including materials, buildings, and vegetation.

Results

There is general support for the plan. People approve of the creation of a green urban environment, with communal courtyards, different types of housing, a focus on nature and sustainability, and shared public space. Points that still need attention: access to waste collection points, large vehicles, delivery services, public transport, yard fences, and neighborhood amenities.

There will be no walk-in meetings or participation meetings for the time being. However, we will continue to engage in dialogue with the local community. Consultations are being held with local residents and businesses. In the event of major works, information will be provided in various ways.

What exactly does the spatial procedure entail?

The BOPA procedure concerns a permit to enable housing construction. BOPA stands for BuitenPlanse OmgevingsplanActiviteit (Out-of-Plan Environmental Plan Activity). Multiple permits are required to build the plan. The municipality first applies for a BOPA to enable the 'residential' function for the entire area. The developers then apply for a permit for each phase. A construction permit is required for the Edisonboog, which is handled by the municipality. Residents have the opportunity to object to the permits.

How does the new construction project fit into the current environmental plan?

The new construction project does not fit within the current environmental plan. That is why we want to allow the entire area to be used for residential purposes.

How are the current living environment and the character of the neighbourhood taken into account?

We have taken into account the vision for Zegwaartseweg and have drawn up an urban development plan. This plan has been carefully developed with the developers, with a strong focus on the existing environment and the character of the neighborhood.

What steps have already been taken in the process, such as approval by the municipal council?

The city council has already approved the urban development plan. On July 8, 2024, the city council gave the green light for 540 to 550 homes in a green urban environment. In addition, the city council has reserved space for the Edisonboog, to compensate for the 'cutting' of Edisonstraat. The city council must also take a consent decision before the BOPA permit can be granted.

What options do local residents have to object to or influence the plans?

Residents can object to the BOPA procedure. If they do not agree with the outcome of the objection, they can appeal, or even file an appeal.

How are the interests of local companies taken into account in the procedure?

We are having conversations with companies in the area to inventory their wishes and concerns. It is important that the municipality provides information in a timely manner, for example about changes in the LZV route, the Edisonstraat and other relevant topics.

Why was it necessary to cut down almost all the trees?

We understand that the felling of trees in the newly developed Edisonpark area has an impact. The felling permit was requested for safety reasons. The municipality had to carry out emergency felling in the area before, because trees and branches fell over, sometimes causing damage. This weakened the remaining trees, making further felling necessary.

The felling of trees was carried out under the conditions of a temporary nature permit. Prior to the felling, careful ecological research was carried out by an internal ecologist and an independent ecological research agency. These studies focused on species that are protected under the Environmental Act, such as breeding birds and nests in trees and along the ditch. No protected flora or fauna were found during these field visits. In addition, Stichting Egelopvang Zoetermeer inspected the area, during which no hedgehogs were observed.

Why wasn't the sequoia tree cut down?

The sequoia (giant sequoia) is a special tree. This tree has been standing there for 20 years and is still very healthy. The tree could not remain in its original location because houses are planned there. That is why we moved the tree to its permanent location in November 2025. The tree now stands on Zegwaartseweg, where the sequoia can continue to grow. The National Tree Bank prepared the tree for relocation well in advance. The National Tree Bank will continue to take good care of the tree in the coming period.
Instagram: sequoia relocation

Has there been any consultation with local residents or other parties about the felling of trees and the preservation of greenery?

A permit has been applied for to fell the trees, and no objections have been lodged by the surrounding area.

What are the consequences of tree felling for air quality and the living environment in the area?

The tree felling will not have a significant impact on air quality or the living environment. We will try to plant as much greenery as possible before construction begins.

There was a pile of plastic in the eastern part of Edison Park. What exactly is that?

In Edison Park, we have removed a stubborn plant in an environmentally friendly way: Japanese knotweed. It was probably planted when the park was still an allotment garden. The plant is difficult to remove because it grows quickly and spreads underground. That is why we started a trial in which the soil containing the plant is dug up, mixed with a special organic mixture, and then covered with a sturdy plastic sheet. This prevents the plant from getting light and air, causing it to die off completely. The trial was successful, the plastic was removed, and the clean, fertile soil was spread throughout the area.

What happened to the greenery that reappeared after the trees were cut down?

The seedlings (young trees) have been collected by MeerBomenNu - Planting millions of trees together for less CO₂ so that they can continue to grow into mature trees.

Will trees grow back?

The area will soon offer plenty of space for greenery and biodiversity. We aim to plant new trees before construction begins. This will be done at the edges of the area, so that the trees are not affected by the construction of the 550 homes. The trees within the area will be planted in phases as the land is prepared for residential development. This will ensure that biodiversity has a place in Edisonpark.

What will happen to Edisonstraat and traffic flow?

Edisonstraat will be 'cut off' to create a low-traffic residential neighborhood. Traffic will be diverted via Edisonboog, and parking will be available on the north and south sides of the street.

Will the Edison Arch still be built?

Yes, the design is being created. Before the road can be constructed, the water must be diverted. Sand will also be laid on top of the ground first, so that the soil can settle and the road does not subside. Heavy trucks must also be able to drive on it. This will not hinder the work on the housing project.

How is traffic pressure on surrounding roads reduced?

There are several traffic adjustments planned in the area. After these adjustments, traffic will be diverted to reduce the traffic pressure on surrounding roads.

Are there additional facilities for cyclists and pedestrians?

Yes, the design provides sufficient space for both cyclists and pedestrians.

How is traffic safety in the area guaranteed, especially for pedestrians and cyclists?

Various measures are being taken to improve road safety.

Is there sufficient parking space for the new residents and visitors?

Yes, sufficient parking space will be provided for both residents and visitors. This will be done in accordance with the parking policy in force at that time.

How will public transport to the area be adapted or expanded?

We are investigating whether a new bus stop can be built in the neighborhood to improve public transport to the area.

Will there be parking pressure on the surrounding neighborhoods, and if so, how will this be resolved?

No parking pressure is expected in the surrounding neighborhoods. Parking garages and parking spaces will be constructed in the area.

Are there plans for charging stations for electric cars?

Yes, there are plans to install charging stations for electric cars. This will be further elaborated later.

Ambition document

In March 2018, the council adopted the ambition document for this location and instructed the municipal executive to enter into discussions with market parties about the developments on this basis. The Edisonpark development consortium, consisting of AM, Dura Vermeer Bouw Zuid West, and Synchroon, has drawn up an urban development plan for Edisonpark. The draft plan complies with the ambition document and was adopted by the board of mayor and aldermen on July 14, 2020. Following the participation process, the urban development plan will be elaborated into a final design.

Why are there housing development plans for this area?

The housing plans contribute to the ambition of the municipal council to build at least 700 homes per year in the coming 10 to 15 years. In addition, these plans ensure flow within Zoetermeer. With the development of Edisonpark, the housing stock will be supplemented with approximately 550 homes in the coming years.

How is sustainability ensured in the design?

Sustainability is integrated into the design by creating energy-efficient homes, lots of green spaces, and a car-free area with parking facilities on the outskirts.

How is the green space in the neighborhood designed?

The design contains a lot of greenery, in which we follow the green-urban vision.

Are there plans for recreation and play areas in the area?

Yes, there will be plenty of playgrounds for children in the neighborhood. The water flowing through the area will also contribute to the attractiveness of the surroundings.

What facilities will be available in the neighbourhood, such as green areas, playgrounds or sports fields?

There will be plenty of playgrounds for children. In terms of green spaces, the neighborhood will have many trees, and certain homes will also have access to a communal garden. Van Tuyllpark is located near Edisonpark, which has many sports facilities.

How do we ensure that public spaces remain attractive and accessible to everyone?

We have involved the accessibility council in the project and have had discussions about the accessibility of the public space. Various measures are being taken to ensure that the space is accessible and attractive to everyone.

Are measures being taken to limit nuisance, such as noise pollution?

Yes, high-rise buildings are planned on the outskirts of the neighborhood. These will serve as a noise barrier for the homes behind them. The basic principle is that there should be no noise nuisance for residents.

Will there be sufficient facilities such as shops, schools and healthcare in the area?

No new shops, schools or health care facilities will be built in the area. However, these facilities are already present in the immediate vicinity, such as in the Palenstein and Oosterheem districts.

Will the project also include green roofs, solar panels or other environmentally friendly technologies?

Yes, we want to use as many environmentally friendly techniques as possible, such as green roofs and solar panels. The exact implementation of these techniques is being further elaborated.

What is the schedule for the construction of the houses?

The site will be prepared for construction in 2026, after which the actual construction will start in 2027.

When does the first phase start and how are the 4 phases divided?

The project will be carried out in four phases, with each phase being planned separately. Phase 1 is currently in preparation, and phase 2 is expected to start in the course of 2026.

How can I stay informed about developments?

We keep the website as up to date as possible. Major events are widely publicized on social media and in the city news. When work is being carried out, we inform the immediate vicinity by letter or during consultations. When the sales procedure starts, the developer will launch a sales campaign.

What is the total duration of the project?

The entire project will take approximately 8 years.

What are the key milestones in the process?

The most important milestones are the site preparation and the start of construction. Each phase has its own milestones that are carried out separately.

How is possible nuisance to the surrounding area taken into account during the construction phase?

We maintain close contact with the surrounding area. In the event of temporary road closures, we also inform the surrounding area by means of signs.

How is the site used between construction phases?

We are looking into the possibilities for temporary facilities, such as a hub for trees.

Which companies and parties are involved in the project?

The Development Combination consists of AM BV, Dura Vermeer Bouw Zuid West BV and Synchroon BV