Results of the Housing Vision Survey

The municipality of Voorschoten believes it is important to provide suitable housing for every demographic. We are also very interested in hearing our residents’ wishes and ideas. That is why, in April 2023, we conducted a survey to gather input for the 2023 Housing Vision. More than 300 residents answered the questions and contributed their ideas.

With the results of the survey, we are concluding the participation phase. We are now working on a council proposal in which we will further elaborate on the framework for the Voorschoten 2023 Housing Vision.

Survey Participants

Alderman Hans van der Elst: “First of all, I’m pleased to read that residents are very positive about their own homes. Overall, they give them a solid passing grade. I’m also very pleased that so many residents filled out the survey. Their input is so valuable! It’s also good to see that residents of different ages, from all neighborhoods in Voorschoten, participated: the youngest was 20 and the oldest 91. Although young people were underrepresented, I find it striking and positive that older residents in particular are advocating for more housing for young people.”

What should we build?

Participating residents indicate that there is a need for apartments and single-family homes in virtually every price range. More than half of them believe that these new homes should be built outside the built-up area. The Papenwegse Polder, in particular, is seen as a potential site for development. Only a few residents think it is desirable to add homes in the “expensive” category. Regarding high-rise buildings, we see an almost even split in opinions on whether Voorschoten should build taller apartment buildings. Residents who are in favor specifically mention the Vlietwijk neighborhood, along the Vliet, along the railroad tracks, and toward Leiden as potential locations for high-rise buildings.

Young people, new graduates, and seniors

“The vast majority of residents who completed the survey are mindful of the needs of both young people and the elderly,” says Alderman Van der Elst. “Most indicated that housing should primarily be built for first-time buyers, young people up to age 23, and seniors over 75. In the comments, we also frequently see criticism of the more expensive homes built in recent years, which are unaffordable for many.”

Most participants have indicated that housing mobility for seniors should be included in the new Housing Vision. Another important issue is giving priority to young people and first-time homebuyers in the village who would like to continue living here. Also important is maintaining balance in the housing market, while ensuring that the village’s rural and green character is preserved. Climate adaptation and sustainability are key considerations in this regard.

Flexible Housing

The survey also addresses the construction of flexible housing as a potential solution to the housing shortage. About one-third of the participating residents indicate that they have no objection to the construction of flexible housing. They view status holders, first-time homebuyers, and individuals leaving an institution to integrate into society as the most logical target groups. However, it is also clear that many participants would prefer to see permanent housing built. Regarding housing for asylum seekers, participants note that, in addition to flexible housing, vacant office buildings could also offer a solution.

Are you interested in the 2023 Housing Vision and the upcoming council proposal? Visit www.voorschoten.nl/woonvisie-2023, or sign up for updates at wonen@voorschoten.nl.