The next generation and the future
Youth and student strategy
We give young people real influence over the future of Wageningen. With a youth strategy developed by young people aged 12 to 25 themselves, they decide which themes matter and which solutions the municipality should implement. In this way, we build a city where young people not only contribute ideas, but also help make the decisions.
More focus on the Youth Council
The current Youth Council deserves more than a place on the sidelines. We give young people real influence through structural support, their own budget, and direct access to the municipal council. Your voice is not only heard, it leads to action.
Every decision tested for future consequences
For every council decision, we ask: is this good for the generation that will inherit Wageningen? We invest in education, housing, and a healthy living environment. The future is too important to leave to chance.
Governance and digitalisation
Digital participation
Speaking up should be easy. We are working on a digital participation platform for online forums, submitting proposals, and transparent decision‑making. We draw inspiration from successful systems like Decidim in Barcelona. Participate from your couch, 24/7, in multiple languages.
Neighbourhood budgets and citizens’ assemblies with real impact
Residents help decide where money goes. Not symbolic participation, but real budgets and real decisions. From playgrounds to green spaces — you decide what happens in your neighbourhood.
A municipality that listens and learns
We measure what works, ask what can be improved, and adjust where needed. Using data from WUR, feedback from residents, and best practices from across Europe, we build a municipality that keeps learning and improving.
Wellbeing and care
Support in your own language
Twenty‑five percent of Wageningen does not speak Dutch as their first language. Care and support must be accessible to everyone — in English, but also in other languages. We don’t leave anyone behind.
Preventing problems instead of solving them
Early detection prevents greater harm later. We invest in prevention: healthy schools, accessible support, and strong social networks in neighbourhoods. Because prevention is better than cure.
More focus on young people’s mental health
The pressure on young people is high. We ensure quick access to support, strong cooperation between schools and care providers, and space for open conversation. Mental health is not a luxury — it is a basic right.
Local economy and culture
Support for entrepreneurs — with a European boost
Wageningen’s businesses, start‑ups, and sustainable entrepreneurs deserve strong support. We provide a single service desk for permits and access to European funding. A revolving fund supports cooperatives and circular companies with loans that flow back into new initiatives. Less bureaucracy, more entrepreneurship.
Space for culture and connection
Markets, festivals, stages — culture brings a city to life. We create space for events, support local initiatives, and ensure everyone can enjoy them. From classical to experimental, from large to small.
Wageningen University & Research as partner
We have the knowledge — now let’s put it to use. Evidence-based policy, sustainable innovation, and international connections. Wageningen as a living lab where science and practice come together.
Living in Wageningen
3,500 affordable homes by 2035 — with at least 40% social housing
No vague promises, but concrete numbers. Everyone deserves a home: students, young families, and older residents.
Vacant buildings become living spaces
While people sit on waiting lists, buildings stand empty. We put an end to that. We make it easier to convert properties and split homes. Every square metre counts.
Neighbourhoods where you actually want to live
Concrete alone doesn’t make a home. We design neighbourhoods with space for greenery, play, meeting, and movement. Residents sit at the table, because they know best what their neighbourhood needs. A housing advisory council of residents and experts advises on design, height, and materials, ensuring new developments fit Wageningen’s character.
Sustainable and future proof construction
We build with natural and circular materials that benefit the climate and the health of residents. This is how we make Wageningen a leading example of innovative and responsible construction.
Energy and Climate
Sustainability with European funds
Climate action costs money — but Wageningen doesn’t have to pay for it alone. We actively pursue European funding for insulation, solar panels, wind energy, and green neighbourhoods. With programmes like LIFE, ELENA, and ERDF/Interreg, we aim for substantial additional investments of several million euros over four years. Local climate action, powered by Europe.
Residents in charge
With energy cooperatives, neighbourhood budgets, and a revolving fund, we give residents both influence and financial benefits. The fund supports initiatives that reduce CO₂ or share energy. Your energy, your say.
Green and water to fight heat and drought
Climate change demands solutions now. We green our streets, capture rainwater, and cool the city with trees and water. Wageningen remains liveable — even in hot summers.
A pleasant living environment
Clean air, quiet streets
Health starts with the air we breathe. We reduce traffic in residential areas, promote electric transport, and protect schoolyards from air pollution.
More green, less gray
Every new development must add green. We green existing neighbourhoods, create water‑retention areas, and make space for biodiversity. Wageningen becomes greener, cooler, and more beautiful.
Convenient public transport
From Arnhem to Utrecht, from early morning to late at night: everyone should be able to travel easily and sustainably. We invest in high‑frequency public transport and fast cycling routes. No traffic jams, no emissions — just freedom.