Utrecht is entering a new era of sustainable building with the start of the construction of Merwede, the largest car-free district in the Netherlands. This modern residential area, which will be built between the Merwedekanaal canal and Transwijk park, will become home to around 12,000 people. The project has 6,000 housing units planned, of which 1,800 will be social housing, 1,500 will be mid-range rental and affordable properties for sale, and 2,700 units will go to the private sector. A number of studios are responsible for the design of the neighbourhood and have authored the various parts of it.
Merwede – a green space for the future
Despite its relatively small size, more than half of the open spaces, rooftops and internal gardens will be designed in an ecological way. The neighbourhood will include numerous green areas, water retention areas and solutions to prevent overheating. In the interest of the environment, ecological water corridors have also been planned to connect the district with neighbouring green spaces.
Photo: BURA and LOLA Landscape Architects
Modern mobility without cars
Merwede will be fully adapted to modern transport solutions. Residents will have 250 car-sharing and 21,500 bicycle parking spaces at their disposal. The district will have a high-quality public transport infrastructure and car parks will be located on the periphery. This approach will allow more space to be dedicated to recreational areas and meeting places.
Merwede’s innovative energy solutions
The Merwede district will be an example of sustainable construction, adapted to future energy challenges. All buildings will be heated and cooled by means of a heat and cold storage system (WKO), using water from the Merwedekanaal canal. The solution will provide residents with an almost energy self-sufficient area, with most roofs covered with greenery or photovoltaic panels. The buildings will achieve at least energy class A , which means maximum efficiency in terms of energy consumption.
Modern living comfort
Merwede is not just about residential space – schools, shops, offices, restaurants and sports facilities will be built in the district. With an eye on the community, there will also be health centres, educational facilities and communal spaces such as the Merwedepark. All residents will be able to use a dedicated app to facilitate neighbourly contact and manage daily affairs.
Will Merwede change the world?
The construction of Merwede is a milestone towards a sustainable, modern city that combines ecology, convenience and social diversity. With the first flats due to be delivered in 2027, Utrecht is already setting the standard for future urban construction.
Source: official Merwede website
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