Inner-city densification, Nijmegen
Densification as a strategy to generate social value
As part of an update to the Omgevingsvisie, the municipality of Nijmegen asked BURA to conduct research on “inner-city densification”. Like many other Dutch cities, Nijmegen faces a significant urbanization challenge. This challenge is undeniably complex, but the research provides insights into the choices that can be made and the areas where direction can be given.
Goal
Gaining insight into the task of inner-city development and the spatial evolution of the city.
Result
The design research provides tools for urban planning decisions and densification within Nijmegen’s urban environments.
Location
Nijmegen
Client
Municipality of Nijmegen
Collaboration
Over Morgen
Timeline
2022-2023
As part of an update to the Omgevingsvisie, the municipality of Nijmegen asked BURA to conduct research on “inner-city densification”. Like many other Dutch cities, Nijmegen faces a significant urbanization challenge. This challenge is undeniably complex, but the research provides insights into the choices that can be made and the areas where direction can be given.
There is a growing awareness that urban densification can be leveraged as an opportunity to improve, strengthen, and enrich the city. In this context, spatial densification and inner-city development are not goals in themselves but rather means to achieve societal value.
To achieve this, BURA identifies the need for a better balance between housing development and other urban functions in spatial programming, a focus on intermediate spaces that act as a structural framework for densification, and the realization of opportunities within existing neighborhoods alongside larger urban development projects.
To provide direction for the city’s challenges, BURA has formulated several recommendations. This includes a perspective on the city categorised into six urban environments, an organisation of spatial challenges into three key themes (mass, open space, and flows), and a proposal for applying ten principles for inner-city development. Through this approach, the research provides the municipality with tools to make urban planning decisions that align with Nijmegen’s spatial structure and identity.
We collaborated with the Municipality of Nijmegen and the consultancy firm Over Morgen in an exploratory and interactive manner. Through several broad working sessions, we developed ideas and insights together. We presented our findings to the municipal programming table and engaged in dialogue with the wider audience during the “Stadsgesprekken” about both interim and final results. This approach helped place inner-city development firmly on the agenda. As a result, the research was discussed at the executive level and submitted to the city council.
