EUKN - European Urban Knowledge Network - Rotterdam: Renovated industrial space gives the neighbourhood a boost

Rotterdam: Renovated industrial space gives the neighbourhood a boost

Introduction

The former premises of Roteb (Rotterdam cleansing department) on Zaagmolenkade constitute a decaying industrial complex which has been empty for a long time. The building is located in a popular shopping district. The whole neighbourhood will get a boost from the refurbishment of Zaagmolenkade and a facelift for the Zwaanshals shopping street.

Problem

The aim of this project is to give the old Roteb building a new economic use. This will improve the economic vitality of the location and will make the area more appealing to businesses and the general public.

Description

The old Roteb building will be renovated and given a new function. 650 m2 of commercial space will be developed for creative and craft-based businesses. A unique aspect in this regard is that working and selling will be combined. For example, whilst the glassblower creates a vase in his workshop, the visitor can purchase an attractive hand-blown glass carafe in the adjoining shop. The courtyard will incorporate 89 parking spaces in an underground car park. This will be a welcome addition to the neighbourhood.

Approach

The spearheads within the Rotterdam programme document are:

Integrated approach of youth problems (family, education, leisure time, work).
Investments in culture and economy; the Cultural world district.
Complete improvement of the quality of the outdoors area in the territory.
Economisal-recreative (re-)development of the Rotte and its surroundings.
Participation of inhabitants and entrepreneurs with the driving Thea terras.

Results

The development of the building and the area will improve the quality of living and working in this area.

EU involvement

URBAN II is an initiative of the European Commission. The aim is to support innovative projects in the field of urban regeneration in disadvantaged neighbourhoods. The URBAN II projects will set an example for national urban policy. In the Netherlands, areas in Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Heerlen have been allocated for the period 2000-2006. In Rotterdam URBAN II attention is directed at three neighbourhoods in 'Noord aan de Rotte', with a total of almost 30,000 inhabitants.

Financing

European subsidy: € 146.076
Total cost: € 2.328.900

Contact info

The local programme management, tel. +31 10 4667667

Project start date

01/06/2004

Document type

case

Themes

Urban Policy > Urban environment > Urban renewal

Keywords

Brownfield development