Preparations for the construction of 950 homes on the Hembrug site in Zaandam have started. A number of trees have to make way for this, but according to councilor Wessel Breunesse they are compensated with new growth. “They are also sick trees that are cut down and the forest, also called the ‘Plofbos’, remains as it is. It is unique and the only forest in Zaanstad.”
The municipality of Zaanstad has had ambitious plans for the Hembrug site since 2010. The activity on the former military site where ammunition was made got off to a good start. However, things did not go smoothly with the housing plans. The companies on and around the site objected and were vindicated. The zoning plan for residential construction was rejected in 2019. It wasn’t until last spring that the green light came.
Housing construction was initially also planned between the companies on the site. That turned out not to be such a good idea. Now most homes are on the relevant side. Social housing will be built there first. Alderman: “I really like that, because the shortage in Zaanstad has now increased to more than twelve years.”
Close to the “Plofbos”, which owes its name to the ammunition that was previously tested in the forest, houses are already being built in old military buildings. The forest itself is not accessible to the public. “That will remain the case, we do not want to influence the flora and fauna there,” says Wessel Breunesse.
He hopes that the first shovel for the homes can be broken early next year. “It will be wonderful if you can live here among all that greenery.”