Report resident meeting North Road - Thursday, April 10, 2025

On Thursday, April 10, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., a residents' meeting was held on the plan to create a sustainable shelter for Ukrainians at 16 North Road, as well as housing for starters and emergency seekers (= Track 1).

The purpose of the meeting was to update local residents on the status of the plan. They could also ask questions and share their ideas or concerns. An open and accessible format in the form of an information market was deliberately chosen. This means that everyone could walk around on their own and talk to people from the municipality and other organizations.

In the room were standing tables. At each table were employees of the municipality or project partners. Local residents were free to walk around and express their questions or concerns to the employees.

Present disciplines

  • Program manager and project secretary Ukrainian displaced persons: substantive explanation of the (residence) process and approach towards housing this target group.
  • Communications Department: explain the method of information and participation.
  • Spatial Development Department: answering questions about permits, the zoning plan and spatial procedures.
  • Woonbedrijf: information on the plans for the pavilion intended for first-time buyers.
  • Living Support Counselor Ukraine: explanation of counseling and living support for Ukrainian residents.
  • Project manager and contractor: provided insight into renovation planning, execution and outcome.

During the evening, visitors were also guided through one of the pavilions by the living allowance consultant. About ten people participated in this tour.

Input from local residents

Several conversations were held at the status tables. These conversations show that residents are involved and think along, but also that they want clarity. They want to know how the site will be used in the short term and what will happen in the long term.

Frequently asked questions and answers

  • Target group and composition: What does the composition of the population look like? How large is the group?
    The two pavilions will house 85 Ukrainian displaced persons.
  • Timeliness: How long will the Ukrainian IDPs stay in this location? What will the stay process look like when the war ends?
    As long as the war in Ukraine continues, displaced persons may stay here based on European agreements. If the situation changes, the Rijksoverheid will determine the follow-up, and those affected will be informed accordingly.
  • Future infill: What will happen to the pavilions after this group leaves? Which new target groups will come into the picture? Do local residents still have a say in this?
    After this group leaves, the new purpose of the pavilions will be assessed. In the event of any new plans, local residents will be informed and involved in good time through the usual spatial planning procedures.
  • Nuisances during construction: what can residents expect in terms of noise or traffic congestion? When will the work start and how long will it take?
    We expect the renovation work to cause very little noise or additional traffic because the work is mainly taking place indoors.
  • GGZ - Problem: Will people with mental health problems be housed? What does this mean for livability?
    No persons with mental health problems will be housed.
  • Current residents: What is their future perspective? If they have to leave, how and when will they be informed?
    It has been agreed with the current temporary residents that they may stay in the main building at the front.
  • Security and supervision: Will social monitoring, supervision or security be provided at and around the site?
    Site management will be present during the day for questions from Ukrainian IDPs and local residents. No security will be present in the evening hours.

Residents expressed partial concern about the impact of the new residents on the environment and the temporary nature of the shelter. At the same time, there is also understanding for the situation of the Ukrainian displaced persons. The desire for more involvement and communication was strongly expressed by some visitors.

Participation and response

Two forms were distributed during the evening: 

  • Contact form (for those who want to contribute ideas or stay involved)
  • Response: 4 forms completed
  • Brief questionnaire about the meeting
  • Response: 5 forms completed

The results of these forms will be processed and used for further participation and communication. 

Appreciation and atmosphere

The meeting was mostly positive and constructive. The information market provided an approachable way to share information, and the tour was well received, giving visitors a clearer picture of the inside of the pavilions.

Follow-up actions

Based on the meeting, the following actions are envisioned: 

  • Feedback via a report: This report will be distributed to attendees and local residents and published on the municipality's website on the North Road page.
  • Follow-up participation: based on the completed contact forms, a group of residents will be involved in follow-up steps (sounding board)
  • Update project information: Up-to-date information on the renovation and move-in group of residents will be provided.