Council Approves Purchase of Zilverfabriek for Town Hall Housing

The current city hall at Leidseweg 25 is severely outdated. Accessibility is far from optimal for users and visitors to the building. The current building also falls short in terms of sustainability and working conditions.

Historical Significance

In late January, the municipal council learned that the Zilverfabriek was up for sale. At that time, the municipality was already working on plans for the renovation and new construction of the current city hall. But the Zilverfabriek holds such historical significance for Voorschoten, and the opportunity to acquire it was so unique, that the municipality decided to enter into negotiations after all. Now that the council has made a final decision, the municipality can finalize the purchase.

Everything fits inside

“Everything we have in mind fits in there,” says Councilman Pieter Varekamp. “Think of service counters for residents, offices for civil servants, and a council chamber where we can properly welcome the press and the public. In addition, we have space to house ‘Voorschoten Voor Elkaar’ and the Center for Youth and Family in the building. What’s more, the new location is easily accessible by bike, public transportation, and car.”

Opening after the summer of 2028

Preparations for the necessary renovation will begin shortly. The new city hall will then open its doors after the summer of 2028. The city council is eager to discuss the future use of the current city hall—known as the “main building”—with the city council and partners such as the library. The city council sees opportunities for residential development on the site of the non-historic outbuildings behind the main building.

Want to know more?

For more information and to get a sense of the project, visit the project page at www.voorschoten.nl/gemeentehuis.