Construction of Stadshavens starts with new quay

The Stadshavens partners VanWonen, Lefier, VolkerWessels Vastgoed, Nijestee, BPD and the municipality of Groningen marked the start of construction with a boat journey. They sailed from the city centre, past the quay on the Eemskanaal, to the EMG silo in Stadshavens. This is one of the characteristic buildings that will be preserved in the new district.

The new quay
The quay will be transformed into a green quay featuring cycling routes, walking paths, seating and a square directly on the water: the future meeting place of the district. The quay will be constructed and prepared in various phases, aligned with the construction of the first residential and commercial area. In the first phase, the new sheet pile walls will be installed.

For people seeking breathing room in the city
Alderman Rik van Niejenhuis: “Stadshavens is for people seeking breathing room in the city. The outdoor space will be generous and truly for everyone: green, open, inviting and car-free. The residents will enjoy waterside living in a district with a raw charm and the city’s buzz close at hand.” The partners in Stadshavens are jointly investing in these public spaces: roads, cycling and walking paths, quays, winding streets, green courtyards, inner gardens, squares and parks. “A brand new city park will be created on the site of the sand transshipment near the Sontbrug. We will start consulting with the city on its design from this summer”, says Rik van Niejenhuis.

Growth
Stadshavens’ development creates space for the city’s growth. Groningen is one of the fastest-growing cities in the Netherlands. This growth is expected to persist. We have a huge shortage of housing. There is a particular need for good quality, sustainable and affordable housing not too far from the city centre. By building Stadshavens, we are making great strides in providing more house seekers with a pleasant home.”

Lively neighbourhood
Approximately 3,300 homes will be built in the area between the Eemskanaal, Balkgat, Damsterdiep and the marina, in the eastern part of Groningen city. It will be a lively, high-density and green district on the water. The housing mix will include owner-occupied homes and (social) rental housing to suit a wide range of incomes and household types. Around 30,000 square meters have been designated for commercial and community spaces, supporting both entrepreneurs and social initiatives. Construction of the first homes, amenities and parking hub is expected to start in the second half of 2026.