In the Draft Spatial Policy Document 2050, Twente is one of three areas designated as a ‘scale leap region’. How do you view this zoning plan for the Netherlands?
‘It's a draft policy note, so I remain cautious. But the direction is clear: according to this plan, our region offers opportunities for strong growth in housing, population, facilities, the economy, and innovation. What strikes me is that in all three identified growth regions – Twente, Groningen-Assen, and South Limburg – you can read a certain recognition of the strength of the ecosystem. There is a clear role for the universities in these regions, as well as for other knowledge institutions. This pivotal role in regional spatial-economic development is recognised.’
What kind of opportunities arise for the UT? For example, there is talk of more than 100,000 extra inhabitants in Twente over the next 25 years...
‘We are currently seeing an intrinsic demographic trend in the region, namely shrinkage. These plans could mark a turnaround – which would, of course, have a positive effect on our intake.
This applies not only to us, but also to Saxion and ROC van Twente. Still, we’ll have to wait and see, won’t we? 2050 is still a long way off.’
I can imagine that in some parts of the region, people are reluctant about local population growth of 100,000...
‘I completely understand that, because such growth needs to be facilitated in a well-thought-out way. At the same time, Twente is certainly a region with all the right conditions for growth, it also aligns with the current plans of the major cities in Twente. After such an initial impetus, you really have to think carefully and discuss together how to shape that leap in scale.’
The document also contains some strikingly positive words about international students. Did you notice that too?
‘Absolutely, those words stood out. The policy document explicitly states that international students increase the attractiveness and therefore the vitality of the regions. That is a nice recognition, but also one that somewhat contrasts with the policies pursued in recent years.
Hopefully, this recognition will be followed by supportive future policy choices.’
Is Twente’s role in this National Environmental Vision the result of lobbying?
‘I don't see it as a direct result, but it undoubtedly helped that we, from the Twente Board and other regional parties, have asserted ourselves in The Hague. We’ve been telling the story for years: that Twente is a place with room to grow. But it’s not just about telling that story – it’s also about showing it. After all, there’s already a proven economic core. In high-tech, we’ve long been second only to the Brainport region. That doesn’t happen by accident.’
So, you’re not ‘counting your chickens’ just yet?
‘No, certainly not. But there are definitely opportunities. The last spatial policy document dates back 34 years and brought the Netherlands the so-called Vinex neighbourhoods. In itself, this document is positive, and it's good to see that we're now regarded as a growth region. This is just a first step in a long process. In any case, it's nice that we're on the map.’
