The Future of Music in Groningen - Building De Nieuwe Poort
Entrepreneurs push for Central Station location to secure Groningen’s role as a cultural hub.
The future of Groningen’s well-known Oosterpoort music centre is a hot topic. Local business groups are pushing for its replacement, called De Nieuwe Poort, to be built near the Central Station. They argue that this location is the best choice to keep Groningen a leading city for music and festivals.
Why a New Music Center is Needed
Since 2017, plans have been in the works to replace the Oosterpoort. The current building is outdated and no longer meets modern needs. While the area behind the Central Station was initially chosen as the preferred site, concerns over costs led the municipality to consider another option: the Suikerzijde district.
However, many business and cultural groups believe delays in choosing a location could harm Groningen’s cultural reputation. They want the new music centre to be built near the Central Station and completed by 2030.
“The Best Choice”
In a letter to the city’s mayor and council, local business associations, including the Groningen City Club and VNO-NCW, made their case for the Central Station location. They highlighted its easy access for both locals and visitors, as well as its potential to enhance the city’s growing Spoorzone area.
“This location is the only right choice,” the letter states. “It’s central, easy to reach, and will strengthen Groningen’s cultural and business identity.”
The groups warned that the ageing Oosterpoort building is already struggling to host high-quality events. This could hurt Groningen’s status as a music city, especially with other cities like Zwolle and Apeldoorn eager to attract major festivals.
Concerns About the Suikerzijde Option
While the Suikerzijde district has been suggested as a cheaper alternative, it has faced criticism. Business leaders argue that it’s too far from the city centre and lacks the accessibility needed for a top cultural venue.
They stressed that Groningen’s music centre must remain close to the heart of the city to continue drawing both local audiences and visitors from other regions.
Why Act Now?
Supporters of the Central Station location are urging the city to make a decision soon. They fear that further delays could cause Groningen to lose important events like the Eurosonic/Noorderslag festival, which would hurt both its cultural scene and economy.
By moving quickly, the city could ensure the new music centre is built on time and meets its goal of opening in 2030.
What’s Next?
The city council is expected to decide on the location of De Nieuwe Poort in early 2025. For now, entrepreneurs, cultural groups, and residents are watching closely, hoping that the Central Station site will be chosen to secure Groningen’s place as a top music and festival city for the future.