Design for Multifunctional Library Facility Completed

The design for a new multifunctional facility (MFA) in the library on Wijngaardenlaan is complete. This is evident from the information letter that the Voorschoten municipal executive sent to the city council. At the same time, the municipal executive has asked the council for more time to make a decision regarding the MFA. The municipal executive will use this additional time to further develop the financial justification and to examine the proposals submitted by the owner of the Kruispuntkerk and the citizens’ initiative.

Councilmember De Bruijn is pleased with the current design. “The compact design was developed through an intensive and interactive process with the library and future users, in close consultation with the municipality. The goal was—and remains—to accommodate as many wishes as possible.”
Alderman Cramwinckel: “Thanks to its combination of functions, the design offers unique added value for Voorschoten. It is important to make a well-considered decision. That is why we want to take more time to calculate the costs and assess the risks. It is also important to address the questions that have arisen regarding the citizens’ initiative and the development of the Kruispuntkerk.” 

The executive board expects to submit the final design, along with the investment estimate and financial coverage, to the council for a decision this fall, so that a decision can be made when the budget is adopted.

Breakdown of the Financial Picture

The financial aspects of the proposal for the new MFA have been outlined in broad terms, but further elaboration is needed on certain points. At this time, the proposal is still based on a number of assumptions. In addition, a clearer picture is needed regarding a number of risks, such as rising construction costs, operating expenses, and revenue. As a result, it is not yet possible to definitively assess the final cost or whether the proposal can be implemented within the financial framework set by the council.

Kruispuntkerk and Citizens' Initiative

The extra time will also be used to take a closer look at two developments. These include the plan by the owner of the Kruispuntkerk, which focuses on preserving the church, as well as residential construction and retail spaces. The municipality expects to have more clarity on this matter and to complete an initial assessment by the fall. The citizens’ initiative launched by a few residents is based on the demolition of the Kruispuntkerk. This aspect was not examined in the so-called BBN study. The municipality intends to investigate the formal feasibility of demolition and its consequences. The council can take the results of these quick assessments into account when making its final decision, thereby ensuring a comprehensive and well-founded decision.