Two Major Streets in City Centre Will Be Redeveloped
Pedestrian zones, more greenery, and a 500-bike garage planned as Oosterstraat and Gelkingestraat undergo major redesign by 2027.
The Municipality of Groningen has finalised a redevelopment plan for Oosterstraat and Gelkingestraat, aiming to transform the two central streets into safer, greener, and more inviting public spaces. If approved by the city council in July 2025, construction is expected to begin in early 2026 and be completed by summer 2027.
Pedestrian Priority and Cyclist Access
Under the new plan, both streets will become pedestrian zones where cars are no longer permitted. Cyclists will still be allowed to pass through in both directions, but must yield to pedestrians. The current layout with narrow sidewalks will be replaced by wide walking zones, creating more room for greenery, terraces, and seating areas. Bicycle parking will be allowed only in designated spaces.
A Greener and More Livable City Centre
The redesign includes planting seven new trees—four in Oosterstraat and three in Gelkingestraat—as well as numerous planting areas with flowers and shrubs. In front of buildings, there will be space for benches, terraces, flower boxes, and even a playful water feature in the Oosterstraat. Special care is being taken to preserve the historical character of the streets, with improvements to public lighting and spatial design.
Cooperation with Local Residents and Businesses
The development plan was shaped with input from local residents and business owners through a dedicated working group. Discussions focused on greenery, safety, and strengthening the streets' unique identity. Entrepreneurs, including those from the Groningen City Club, have responded positively to the plans. “A city must keep moving and continue to develop,” says GCC chairman Eric Bos, who noted that shopkeepers were involved from the start.
Extra Bicycle Storage
In addition to the street renovations, a new underground bicycle shed with room for 500 bikes will be built beneath the C&A building at the corner of Herestraat and Zuiderdiep, further supporting the shift toward pedestrian and cyclist-friendly infrastructure.
Once approved, the project will begin in 2026 and aims to make Oosterstraat and Gelkingestraat more accessible, sustainable, and enjoyable for everyone.