A new vision for the future

An attractive housing market with sufficient supply is important to strengthen the appeal of our region for our own inhabitants, for labour migrants and for Flemish house hunters across the border. Economic developments, high-quality labour force and attractive living and housing are closely related. There are many opportunities in Zeeuws-Vlaanderen in this region. In order to be able to make the most of these opportunities, at the beginning of this year Onbegrensd Zeeuws-Vlaanderen commissioned In.Fact.Research to conduct research into the demography and housing needs in Zeeuws-Vlaanderen.

The aim of the study is to portray demographic developments in Zeeuws-Vlaanderen from a cross-border perspective and to indicate the consequences for housing needs. The results of the study show that an increasing number of residents from abroad have moved to Zeeuws-Vlaanderen in recent times. This is because of the available jobs and the available (affordable) housing. The results also show that there are opportunities to increase this influx in the future, certainly if the focus is mainly cross-border.

One of the conditions for this is that the right homes are offered at the right locations. The demand for housing is highly differentiated, both in terms of target groups and housing need, and therefore requires customisation. The existing housing stock will have to be tackled but adding new quality and new housing products is also essential. This can raise the overall quality level, serve specific groups and promote circulation.

The study has been endorsed by the three municipal councils of Hulst, Sluis and Terneuzen. The results of the study will serve as a handle in drawing up the regional vision of Zeeuws-Vlaanderen and the regional housing vision.

Consult the public version of demography and housing needs in Zeeuws-Vlaanderen here.