Voorne aan Zee town hall to remain in Hellevoetsluis
The Municipal Executive of Voorne aan Zee proposes to the City Council to keep the current City Hall in Hellevoetsluis and to renovate the building.
In the run-up to the merger of the former municipalities of Brielle, Hellevoetsluis and Westvoorne in 2023, it was agreed to use the town hall in Hellevoetsluis as the main location for the municipality of Voorne aan Zee for the time being. It was also agreed then to investigate whether this location would remain suitable in the long term or whether new construction would be necessary. Research shows that keeping and renovating the existing town hall is financially the most favorable option. It is also the best from a sustainability standpoint.
A difficult but thoughtful choice
Although the financial situation of Voorne aan Zee requires careful choices, this decision actually provides an opportunity to limit higher costs and risks in the future. We understand that investing in a renovation can raise questions, especially at a time when cuts are needed in other areas. Still, this is a thoughtful choice, as delaying this remodel is expected to result in higher costs in the long run. Moreover, rebuilding is a lot cheaper than new construction, the cost of which is estimated to be between €55 and 60 million. Remodeling costs are considerably lower, at approximately between €20 and 25 million.
Why remodel?
The council chamber in Hellevoetsluis City Hall is not easily accessible to the public and the sense of security is not optimal due to its location right next to the entrance. Also, the public counters could be better laid out. Furthermore, the building is badly outdated and the installations and sewerage are in need of replacement. With a future-proof, more sustainable and better equipped town hall, we are addressing all these issues. There are also plans to bring our services closer to our residents, in addition to the town hall as the main location. For example, by having our social area teams work more from the villages and neighborhoods.
Improvements for residents, neighbors and employees
The renovation of City Hall offers many benefits. For example, more public counters, better reception and routing for visitors and a safe and accessible council chamber. There will also be more space for collaboration and meeting, both for residents and employees. In addition, the building will be made more sustainable and we will improve parking near the town hall for local residents. We are making a separate plan for this.
What happens next?
The college of B&W is asking the city council in the council meeting of Nov. 13 to provide a preparatory credit of €550,000. This amount is needed to work out a design and make a final plan with financial support. This will be presented in a proposal to the new city council next year.