While the children continue to play without any historical knowledge, Van der Kooi continues to show what has been done. “Here you can see our extended harbor. You can paddle there, but we can also lower the water to one centimeter so that you can skate in the winter. And it can be completely empty, then we have our amphitheater in the city center,” laughs Van der Kooi. In addition, more greenery has been created, including wadis.
The center development has been in the works for years. Money was made available from the province, among others, through an Inner City Fund. Van der Kooi: “That fund was there to ensure that entrepreneurs earn more money in those city centers. An attractive city center is important for that.”
Although the center development should benefit entrepreneurs, there is also criticism. For example, the Coevorder Trade Association (CHV) sent an urgent letter to the municipality. “We would like to welcome people warmly, but having to park your car quickly is a problem,” says chairman Harm Jan Veenstra.
The CHV is concerned about the parking spaces where you can park for a short time, without having to walk far to the shops. In addition, finding parking spaces is also a concern. The association has now been in contact with the municipality and Veenstra also emphasizes that they are happy with the entire development.
“I think the urgent letter is a good signal towards coalition formation,” says program manager Van der Kooi. “We really have to look together at how we handle this.” The CHV also says it would like to contribute ideas.
Because although this work is almost finished, that does not mean that the center will be finished soon. Van der Kooi: “A city is never finished, a city is developing. We are now giving a very strong boost, and we will continue to do so with entrepreneurs. We continue to build. But we are looking forward to receiving everyone, Coevorden is ready to receive many guests.”