During the VNG conference, BNG focused on the theme ‘From housing shortage to housing happiness’. In collaboration with the Eindhoven housing association Trudo and the municipality of Eindhoven, BNG organised an excursion to the unique neighbourhood of Woensel-West. Once known as a problem neighbourhood, Woensel-West has been significantly renovated and has become much more liveable thanks to effective collaboration.
The excursion began on the top floor of the Klokgebouw in Eindhoven. There, Lonneke de Waal, sector lead for Government and Education at BNG, welcomed the fifty participants. She emphasised how important cooperation is in improving neighbourhoods. ‘Trudo's financing for the development of Woensel-West is a good example of this,’ she said.
Mieke Verhees, Alderman for Housing in Eindhoven, said that the municipality would like to work more closely with housing associations. Not just to build houses, but to “develop pleasant neighbourhoods”. Jos Goijaerts, director of Trudo, explained how the approach in Woensel-West began: 'In the beginning, the focus was on a clean, safe and tidy neighbourhood. And we wanted to help residents get ahead. We are still doing that.'
Martin Vols, Relationship Manager Housing at BNG, also emphasised that the bank is keen to support local authorities and housing associations in creating a safe and pleasant living environment. ‘We don't just lend money, we contribute ideas, share knowledge and bring people together. That's how we work together to improve neighbourhoods.’
‘We don't just lend money, we contribute ideas, share knowledge and bring people together. That's how we work together to improve neighbourhoods.’Martin VolsRelationship manager Housing
After the presentations, the participants went out into the neighbourhood. During a walk, they saw how Woensel-West has changed: colourful new buildings, street art and a lively atmosphere. To improve the quality of life, Trudo works together with organisations such as Kansen voor Kinderen (Opportunities for Children) and the BuurtWerkKamer (Neighbourhood Work Room). For Trudo, this is an essential part of developing a neighbourhood. Goijaerts summed it up nicely during the session: 'Only together can we ensure good housing and a pleasant neighbourhood.'
Lonneke de Waal
Sectorlead Overheid en Onderwijs