Last week, the Tilburg City Council approved the urban development plan for the area transformation of Hart van Stappegoor. This marks a significant strategic transformation of the city’s southern district, where urban densification goes hand in hand with quality of life, sustainability, and inclusivity. The plans align closely with the municipality's ambitions to grow compactly and sustainably within existing urban cores.

Hart van Stappegoor—traditionally known for its sports, leisure, and educational facilities—will be transformed into a mixed, vibrant urban district where living, working, learning, and recreation are seamlessly integrated. In total, around 1,000 predominantly affordable homes will be added.

The urban design framework is based on four core principles: livability and future resilience, urban quality, routes and connections, and the overarching concept of "Destination Stappegoor". These principles form the backbone of the area transformation. Green networks, climate-adaptive measures, and high-quality public space redesign contribute to a sustainable and socially inclusive living environment. The plans emphasize the integration of urban functions with a strong focus on human scale. Building volumes are designed to mediate between the surrounding residential neighborhoods and the existing large-scale complexes. Transparent ground floors, sightlines, urban squares, and "urban niches" enhance vibrancy, safety, and wayfinding.

The current Stappegoorweg will undergo a major transformation into a green boulevard prioritizing slow traffic and quality of stay. Car traffic will be partly routed underground and functionally separated (through-traffic vs. destination traffic), creating space for a climate-resilient and socially inviting outdoor environment. New east-west connections will improve integration with surrounding neighborhoods and connect to Stappegoorpark.

A key new feature of the development is the creation of Stappegoorpark: a new city park serving as a green lung and social gathering place at the heart of the plan. The park naturally links various functions in the area and offers space for relaxation, sports, and spontaneous interaction. With its biodiversity, climate-adaptive design, and central location, Stappegoorpark enhances the overall quality of life in the district.

With the city council's approval, a crucial step has been taken toward realizing an integrated and future-oriented urban district. Hart van Stappegoor is therefore not merely a housing project, but a meaningful area development that strengthens Tilburg’s vitality towards 2040.

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