Utrecht plan Mewerde

Merwede becomes an example of sustainable and healthy urbanization in Utrecht. The neighbourhood includes 6.000 new dwellings and various services and sets the bar high regarding the various ambitions. The area will be characterized by high-quality greenery in public spaces, in inner areas and on roofs. This is possible because it will be an almost car-free neighbourhood where pedestrians and cyclists are central. People can make use of a large selection of shared cars, shared bicycles and public transport. Thereby, this plan is the result of an integral and multiple assessment of the various sustainable, spatial, social and programmatic ambitions.

Merwede contributes to a healthy planet with healthy people. It starts with the high density of the area which generates a large saving of space and spares the countryside. Besides, it keeps Utrecht a compact and well-organized city that invites you to move, with high-quality public transport always within walking distance and where the entire city can be reached by bike. In addition to this space saving, the plan for Merwede also yields environmental benefits by more efficient use of energy. This mixed and well connected neighbourhood will be the first major car-free neighbourhood of the Netherlands. The intention is to let the residents use the car as little as possible. If so, preferably with a shared car from one of the "mobility hubs" within the area. Sustainability is also the starting point in other respects. The district must largely provide their own energy with the largest underground heat and cold storage in the Netherlands and three hectares of solar panels on the roofs. The remaining roof space is provided with planting and it is also green between the residential blocks. The public space follows the principle of ‘green unless’ and will be designed as a Merwede Biotope with different species of plants which contributes to microclimate, ecological- and experience value. Thereby Merwede attempts to answer how we should make a new urban district which is as sustainable, healthy, pleasant and lively as possible.