Draft Zoning Plan for Huize Bijdorp Available for Public Review

July 16, 2021, 10:22 a.m.

The municipality of Voorschoten is making the draft zoning plan for the development of Huize Bijdorp available for public review. This is an important next step in the development of the country estate, which is owned by the Congregation of Saint Catherine of Siena. The zoning plan allows for the construction of a total of up to 96 residential units, 81 care facilities, and social and community amenities.

Councilman Marcel Cramwinckel: “Given their advanced average age, the sisters are very keen to give the country estate a new future—one that aligns with their philosophy. In recent years, the congregation has worked hard to make this happen. This involved extensive and intensive consultations with local residents, the province, and the municipality. This has resulted in a vision document, which has now been translated into this draft zoning plan. The municipality is offering everyone the opportunity to express their views on this plan, so that the city council can hopefully make a well-considered decision in December.”

Preservation and Enhancement of the Estate

To make way for the new construction, two wings of the monastery will be demolished. The current bungalow will be replaced by twelve homes. The vegetable gardens and the farm will remain. There will also be space for a small retail outlet and a restaurant. The plan is based on preserving and enhancing the estate’s existing natural and scenic values. The estate will soon be opened to the public so that everyone can enjoy the park.

Inspection Period

The draft zoning plan will be available for public review from Tuesday, July 20, through Monday, September 13, 2021, at the Customer Contact Center of the town hall located at Leidseweg 25, 2252 LA Voorschoten. The plan can also be viewed at www.ruimtelijkeplannen.nl and. During the public review period, anyone may submit their comments to the Voorschoten City Council, P.O. Box 393, 2250 AJ Voorschoten. The City Council is expected to make a decision in December.