In the course of the evening, the main points of the Strategic Master Plan were presented to some 130 attendees. UvA Executive Board member Jan Lintsen emphasised that development of the University Quarter adds value for the city as a whole. This was followed by interesting introductory remarks from urban planners with the city and Bureau West 8, after which residents, city officials and the UvA shared their respective visions on the developments in the University Quarter. Hotel The Grand shared a fun behind-the-scenes look at the steps they are taking with regard to sustainability. Residents expressed their appreciation for how the process has been handled. District councillor Ilse Griek concluded the evening by stating that participation in advance of the formal opportunities for supplying input had facilitated efforts to bring parties together; she also shared that follow-up meetings are being organised in connection with certain sub-aspects of the plan. 

Variety of themes addressed

The themes addressed during the evening were: Is there an equilibrium between studying, working, living and visiting? Can the uniqueness and heritage of the area be enhanced? Will it be quiet and peaceful, but also have the possibility for lively experiences? Are there enough challenges to make the area greener and more sustainable? In the coming period, the city of Amsterdam will join the UvA in organising a number of more in-depth sessions on specific areas and/or themes. You can read the full report of the evening (in Dutch) here. 

For more background information visit www.amsterdam.nl/projecten/universiteitskwartier