nuSep 1, 2026, 07:28

Minister wants to accelerate construction of 30,000 homes at five new locations

Housing Minister Elanor Boekholt-O'Sullivan has designated five new development sites to fast-track the construction of 30,000 homes across the Netherlands. By providing national support and funding, the government aims to overcome persistent housing shortages and streamline the permit process for these projects.

Housing Minister Elanor Boekholt-O'Sullivan has designated five new national large-scale residential development areas to accelerate the construction of 30,000 homes in the Netherlands. The selected sites include Schalkwijk in Haarlem, along with locations in Deventer, Leeuwarden, Maastricht, and Weert. These areas were chosen because existing development plans are already in place, and they are currently free from nitrogen restrictions and electrical grid capacity issues. The government aims to expedite the permit process to address the country's persistent housing shortage.

To support this initiative, the cabinet has allocated 1 billion euros to make residential projects more viable for market parties, particularly for affordable housing. This effort is part of a broader strategy led by Prime Minister Rob Jetten to reach the target of 100,000 new homes annually. While last year saw nearly 80,000 additions, the government intends to increase its oversight and investment. Additional development areas are expected to be announced later this year, including ongoing projects like Havenstad in Amsterdam.

Politics Economy Haarlem Netherlands

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Based on reporting by nu. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

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