Kerkrade environmental vision 2050 adopted
On Nov. 4, 2025, Kerkrade City Council adopted the Kerkrade 2050 Environmental Vision.
The vision is called: Surprising Kerkrade, 't sjunste óp de welt. It sets out how Kerkrade wants to develop in terms of living, working and life until the year 2050.
Alderman Nicolle Heijltjes (Spatial Planning): "With this environmental vision, we are setting a clear dot on the horizon. We are building a Kerkrade where young and old feel at home, where there is room for entrepreneurship, greenery and encounters. I am proud of the way in which residents and partners have participated , this vision has truly been created together."
Core ambitions
The vision defines four core ambitions: The Multigenerational City - The Livable City - The Working City - The Climate Resilient City.
The Multigenerational City
Kerkrade wants to be a town where young and old live, learn, care and relax together. The town is committed to strengthening residential quality by building housing in the middle and higher segments, shared facilities and meeting places that connect generations. This will create an inclusive city where everyone feels at home.
The Livable City
A healthy, safe and attractive living environment is central. Kerkrade is working to strengthen the level of facilities so that key amenities are within cycling and walking distance from every neighborhood. The livable town also focuses on greening neighborhoods, improving mobility (encouraging bicycle use) and promoting social cohesion. Livability also means space for culture, sports and recreation.
The Working City
The municipality stimulates economic development by providing space for entrepreneurship, innovation and education. Efforts are made to strengthen business parks, attract new employment and improve the connection between education and the labor market.
The Climate Resilient City
Kerkrade is preparing for climate change by investing in greening renewable energy, , biodiversity, combating heat stress and water management. The town will become greener, more resilient and more resistant to extreme weather conditions. Kerkrade also has a unique and varied rural area which we want to preserve and strengthen .
Engagement of residents and partners
Fourteen views were submitted on the draft environmental vision. Based on these, the municipality adjusted the vision on a few points. The advice of the Environmental Impact Assessment Commission has also been adopted.
The municipality thanks all residents, business owners and organizations who participated. Together we created the vision. This was done through conversations in the city, walks through the neighborhoods, an online questionnaire and meetings with partners.
How to proceed?
The environmental vision is a dynamic document. It changes with new developments in society, technology and world politics. Every four years, the municipality reviews the vision and adjusts it as needed.
In the coming years, the municipality will elaborate on the vision in environmental programs and the environmental plan.
Want to know more about the Environment Vision? Then take a look at Omgevingsvisie | Municipality of Kerkrade