Residential area for young and old in Zuidhorn (NL)

The residential area of Oostergast has been completed in Zuidhorn. It is a special new-build area in the commuter village of Zuidhorn, with a unique green character. The residential and sheltered housing of Zonnehuisgroep Noord have a central spot in the area.

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At the centre of the Oostergast area is the sheltered housing centre known as Zonnehuis Oostergast. It offers a range of amenities including medical care and day care. The majority of the area consists of independent apartments, residences, and units on regular streets. It is unique to the Netherlands. There are around 300 residents in the complex.

In addition to care facilities , Oostergast has numerous facilities for other residents. The area includes an indoor swimming pool for example, offering swimming lessons, aquasports, physio-swimming, and family swims. A community school opened its doors in 2015 , making it additionally attractive to families with children. Adjacent to the school is a sports hall, day care centre, and social workplace.

Oostergast has a rural feel. It boasts large green areas, water features and wide canals that also provide rainwater drainage .Narrow roadways with separate footpaths and the green central meeting place give the area a village-like character. Thanks to the ring road, Oostergast is a surprisingly quiet area in which to live. The paving is created by the red/brown Vandersanden pavers ‘Ardèche’, which helps to emphasise the rural character of the area.

Zuidhorn is a real commuter village just a stone’s throw from Groningen. The area is on the N355 and has a railway connection to Groningen and Leeuwarden. The transferium has recently been expanded. The number of parking spaces has been doubled and bicycle storage increased. The same patterning was used for the transferium as for the nearby residential area. Land development will continue until the end of 2025, so the area has much potential. The city anticipates growth of around 45 residences per year.