Council Approves Purchase of Zilverfabriek for Housing town hall

The municipality is authorized to purchase the Zilverfabriek to establish the new “ town hall ” there. The council made this decision at its meeting on June 4. The social organizations “Voorschoten Voor Elkaar” and the “ centre ” for Youth and Family will also be relocating to the historic building.

Entrance of the Silver Factory

The current “ town hall ” at Leidseweg 25 is severely outdated.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

Historical Significance

In late January, the “ executive board ” 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 “ town hall.” However, 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 Pieter Varekamp, “ Alderman .” “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 ‘ centre ’ 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 town hall will then open its doors after the summer of 2028. Regarding the future use of the current town hall —the so-called “main building”—the executive board is eager to discuss this with the municipal council and partners such as the library. On the site of the non-historic outbuildings behind the main building, the executive board sees opportunities for residential development.

Want to know more?

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