Zoetermeer presents draft public housing program: City in Balance
Zoetermeer faces a major housing challenge. The city is growing, the housing market is tight and the need for suitable, affordable and sustainable housing is increasing. The board of mayor and aldermen therefore presents the draft Public Housing Program: City in Balance. This program gives direction to housing policy for the coming years and is now submitted to the City Council for decision.
A city in balance
In Zoetermeer, everyone should be able to live comfortably: young and old, singles and families, starters and move on. That is why the program is committed to a balanced distribution of housing in the city with the following starting points: 1/3 social rental, 1/3 medium income housing and 1/3 expensive housing. A balanced distribution of housing helps to strengthen social cohesion and livability. The supply may vary by neighborhood with a range of 23 - 43%. Each neighborhood has a unique character and a balanced distribution of housing preserves social cohesion and livability.
Encouragement of advancement
By investing in housing that meets the changing needs of Zoetermeer residents, the flow in the housing market is promoted. Housing will be realized that meets the needs of seniors, such as life-course apartments in their own neighborhood. This will allow seniors to live independently for longer in their familiar surroundings. Also, single-family homes can then become available for young families, which promotes the flow and better matches the housing supply to the various target groups.
Innovative housing solutions and sustainability
Realizing new housing for Zoetermeer means building within the existing city limits. This requires innovative housing solutions. Together with housing corporations, the possibilities of topping up, sticking on and plotting out existing buildings will be exploited. Also, new forms of housing, such as splitting houses and condominiums, are made possible under certain conditions. In addition, existing housing and facilities, such as schools and sports buildings, will be made more sustainable and renovated where necessary.
Alderman Ronald Weerwag (Housing): "With this draft public housing program, we are building together on Zoetermeer: a city in balance. By working with local and regional partners on sustainable and innovative solutions, we are ensuring that Zoetermeer remains future-proof for all residents."
The draft Public Housing Program, once approved by the council, will be made available for inspection.
