Universiteit Leiden

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Green light for student housing in Oegstgeest part of Bio Science Park

Leiden University can start work on 300 student and 500 other dwellings in the Oegstgeest part of the Leiden Bio Science Park, with facilities including a marina. The Council of State has rejected the appeal by local residents. The developer that will start work on this site, which is owned by the University, should be announced at the end of the year.

Biodiversity and water

The 500 other dwellings in the area on the northern side of Nieuw-Rhijngest Zuid mainly fall in the categories of mid-market rental housing and social housing. The area will also feature plenty of space for biodiversity and water and the natural integration of the housing in its surroundings. There will also be room for a marina and facilities such as cafés and restaurants.

Solve housing crisis

The Director of Leiden University’s Real Estate Department, Michel Leenders, is pleased that the plans will go ahead. ‘It’s great that this part of the park will have a nice mix of businesses, housing and other facilities that will make it a more vibrant area. And we will help solve the housing crisis in the cheaper segment. It will be a wonderful place for everyone.’

Affordable housing

The Municipality of Oegstgeest is also relieved. Former alderman Jan Nieuwenhuis and current alderman Elfred Bus have been working hard on this dossier. Elfred Bus: ‘There is a huge need for affordable housing. I’m really proud that our efforts with the University have paid off and the zoning plan has now been approved. Hopefully we will be able to start work as soon as possible.’

Tender

The University’s real estate department will start the tendering procedure this year to decide which developer will transform the land into a liveable and sustainable neighbourhood. The plan that ties in best with the activities at the Bio Science Park and the wishes of the municipality and University will be chosen. By the end of 2023 a developer should have been selected who will then flesh out the plans. Local residents will be consulted in this process. Construction should begin at the end of 2024/beginning of 2025.

Artist’s impression of the new housing
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