How did the project come about?
In 1981 Amersfoort was designated a Growth City by the national government, leading to significant increase in the hospitality and trade sectors, the development of a number of business areas and the building of a new station. The population was predicted to increase from 130,000 in 1981 to 160,000 by 2016. Amersfoort therefore needed to grow, but without losing its character or encroaching into the countryside.
The VINEX Housing Programme
In 1990/1 the Dutch government issued
its “VINEX” report on spatial planning, which proposed the building of
455,000 new houses between 1996 to 2005. Of these, 285,000 houses were
to be built around cities in suburbs, with the stipulation that they
should:
• be compact in order to preserve the countryside
• be close to existing cities to keep car travel to a minimum
• be developed around existing or new public transport
• be close to shops and employment opportunities
The
national government provided financial incentives to local and regional
authorities, including 3.2 billion euros for transport and traffic
investment.
Amersfoort municipality developed their three new
settlements to exceed the government’s standards wherever possible, and
to create thriving places to live, work and invest. |
Delivering the Concept
While the schemes in Vathorst, Kattenbroek and Nieuwland are all different, they have commonalities with other projects in the Netherlands:
Connectivity
Cars are banned from the city centre and are restricted in the new developments, to reduce car dependency. High quality cycle and footpaths intersect all neighbourhoods. To encourage the use of public transport there is a maximum walking distance of 400m to bus stops from every house.
Cycle paths in Vathorst
Environment
The city has set itself a target of 10% below the rate set by the Government for emissions and energy consumption. The developments make use of durable materials and energy resources, including district heating by means of an incinerator, solar panels, efficient use of space (clustering of amenities) and high-quality architecture. Rain water is retained on site. Underground waste storage is an innovative Dutch practise that encourages recycling.
Theming and character
Every section of the development has its own atmosphere reflected in architecture, density, scenery and structure. The original landscapes including ditches, old lanes and farm tracks are incorporated into the new environments. Kattenbroek has attracted international attention for its themed residential areas and Nieuwland has experimented in how solar panelling can be attractively integrated into architecture.
Topics associated with this project
Eco-town, Energy, Environmental, Housing, International, Neighbourhood, Planning, Transport