Groningen Debates Future of Korenbeurs - Calls to Replace Albert Heijn with New Purpose
City council debates repurposing the historic Korenbeurs, with proposals for a food hall or multifunctional space, as part of efforts to reduce large supermarkets in the city centre.
The city council of Groningen is debating the future of the iconic Korenbeurs on the Vismarkt. The CDA party, backed by several council members, has proposed repurposing the historic building, which currently houses a flagship supermarket. The plan aims to reduce the number of large supermarkets in the city centre, a long-standing goal of the municipality to alleviate traffic, encourage speciality shops, and enhance the city’s historic charm.
Push for New Use of Korenbeurs
CDA council member Jalt de Haan highlighted the Korenbeurs’ potential for a more fitting purpose, suggesting ideas such as a food hall, a multifunctional space for events, or even launching a public competition to gather creative proposals. “This building in such a prime location deserves more than being just a supermarket,” said De Haan. The Korenbeurs, owned by the municipality and leased to the current supermarket, offer a unique opportunity for transformation.
Concerns About Supermarkets in the City Center
The Korenbeurs is one of six large supermarkets in the city centre, a number the municipality plans to reduce over time. Alderman Carine Bloemhoff (PvdA) supports limiting large supermarkets, emphasising their logistical challenges, including traffic from supply deliveries. “A large supermarket doesn’t add much to the experience of our historic city centre,” she noted, expressing a preference for speciality shops that draw visitors for unique offerings.
Support and Caution from Council Members
The proposal to replace the supermarket has garnered interest from various political factions. SP council member Hans de Waard and D66’s Tom Rustebiel expressed support, noting the potential for a positive transformation. However, VVD and Party for the North cautioned against forced departures or financial burdens on the municipality. “If the departure is voluntary and there’s a viable alternative, we support the idea,” said Leendert van der Laan of Party for the North.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the enthusiasm, challenges remain. Alderman Bloemhoff acknowledged the supermarket’s compatibility with the Korenbeurs’ status as a historical monument and questioned the financial implications of its departure. “We must carefully consider what will replace it and at what cost,” she said. Suggestions like a food hall will be explored during discussions, but Bloemhoff stressed the complexity of such a transition.