De Suikerzijde is a planned mixed-use urban district on the site of Groningen’s former sugar factory, on the western side of the city between Groningen and Hoogkerk. The site is close to the city centre and covers roughly 160 hectares.89
The project is intended to transform the former industrial area into a district combining housing, work, education, services and recreation. The plan includes around 5,000 homes, alongside commercial and community facilities; the city describes a mix of urban development and green public space.910 The project website lists early amenities such as a neighbourhood room, studio and daytime hospitality in the Bernard Rölinghof, with further plans for services including healthcare, sport and offices. [User-provided page excerpt]
The City of Groningen established De Suikerzijde B.V. in April 2022 to organise and carry out the development. The municipality owns the company and the land, and gave the company exclusive development rights in the project area.8 Dura Vermeer is the development and construction partner for the first phase, working with housing corporations Nijestee and Patrimonium. The initial northern development covers about 700–750 homes, including social and mid-market rentals as well as homes for sale. 234
The broader development is planned in stages over about 25 years and is divided into four areas.8 Construction of the first homes has begun; the first building includes 76 social and mid-market rental apartments, developed by Nijestee with Dura Vermeer. 3 The project website also reports that a search for an additional development partner is under way. 1