Results of the Housing Vision Survey

The municipality of Voorschoten considers it important that there are suitable homes for every target group. We are also very curious about the wishes and ideas of our residents. Therefore, in April 2023, we created a survey to gather input for the Housing Vision 2023. Over 300 residents answered the questions and contributed their thoughts.

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

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, and from all neighborhoods in Voorschoten, participated: the youngest was 20 years old and the oldest 91.” Although young people were underrepresented, I find it striking and encouraging that older residents, in particular, are advocating for more housing for young people.”

What should we build?

The 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, opinions are almost evenly split 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.

Youth, starters, 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 respondents 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 therefore frequently see criticism of the more expensive homes that have been built in recent years, which are unaffordable for many.”

Most participants state that housing flow for seniors should be included in the new Housing Vision. Another important topic is giving priority to young people and starters in the village who would like to continue living here. Furthermore, maintaining a balance in the housing markt is important, while also paying attention to preserving the village and green character of the village. Climate adaptation and sustainability are important in this regard.

Flexible housing

The survey also raises the construction of flexible housing as a possible response to the housing shortage. About a third of the participating residents indicate they have no objection to the construction of flexible housing. They see status holders, starters, and individuals transitioning out of an institution to integrate into society as the most logical target groups. However, it is also clear that many participants prefer a permanent housing form to be built. For housing asylum seekers, participants indicate that in addition to flexible housing, vacant office buildings can also offer a solution.

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