From Martiniplaza to Kardinge — An Overview of Major Construction Plans in Groningen
From Martiniplaza to Kardinge — An Overview of Major Construction Plans in Groningen
The municipality of Groningen is planning significant investments in several key facilities, including MartiniPlaza, Sports Center Kardinge, Cultural Center De Oosterpoort, and Museum aan de A. These projects aim to address structural issues and enhance the city's cultural and sports infrastructure while considering budget constraints and future financial projections.
MartiniPlaza
MartiniPlaza, a major event and sports venue, is slated for new construction by 2035. The Groningen municipal council has concluded that renovation is not viable due to the building's poor structural condition. The estimated cost for the new construction is around 200 million euros. The council is considering relocating MartiniPlaza from its current site on Leonard Springerlaan to the newly developed Suikerzijde district. This move would allow for alternative urban development at the current site.
Director Willem de Kok supports the idea of new construction, acknowledging that it aligns with the municipality's strategic plans. He believes that a new facility could provide a more modern and energy-efficient venue, enhancing MartiniPlaza's role as a leading conference and cultural center.
Sports Center Kardinge
Kardinge sports center, which includes an ice rink, swimming pool, and sports hall, also faces significant changes. The municipality is exploring external funding options to support the center, with costs estimated between 175 and 200 million euros. The ice rink's preservation has garnered strong public support, evidenced by a petition with over 15,000 signatures. The petition will be presented to the city council, highlighting the rink's importance to local sports and the economy.
The municipality is developing three scenarios for Kardinge's replacement and aims to submit an investment proposal early next year. The focus is on maintaining essential services like swimming lessons and recreational sports.
Cultural Center De Oosterpoort
The cultural center De Oosterpoort is another priority for Groningen. To maintain its status as a top cultural city, the municipality plans to either renovate or rebuild the center. The Station area and Suikerzijde are potential sites for the new facility. Further research will determine the best location, with a decision expected later this year.
Museum aan de A
Plans for the Museum aan de A involve converting and renovating the medieval Canter House and Gothic House to create a new historical museum. The project aims to attract 50,000 visitors annually and is expected to cost around 25 million euros. The proposal will be included in the 2025 budget discussions.
Financial Considerations and Timeline
The municipality of Groningen is managing these projects within the constraints of a projected budget deficit and reduced municipal funding from 2026. The strategic investment agenda outlines the need for careful planning and prioritization of projects.
The timeline for these major projects has been adjusted, with the realization of MartiniPlaza now expected around 2035, instead of the initially planned 2030. This adjustment accounts for the ongoing maintenance needs of the current facilities.
The municipality will continue refining these plans, considering feedback from the public and city council, to ensure successful development and enhancement of Groningen's cultural and sports infrastructure.