Gemeente Vlissingen - Shaping Vlissingen as a student city

Presentation

About this project

Start date:	02/03/2025
Project description:	The municipality of Vlissingen aspires Vlissingen to become a student city. However, it is currently unclear to the municipality why students do (or do not) choose HZ / Vlissingen for their studies. There is too little knowledge of the requirements and wishes of students. That is why the municipality wants more insight into the (potential) qualities. How can Vlissingen strengthen itself? What is missing? Currently, the municipality works on the development of the ‘Kenniswerf’. This should become a campus where students can learn, relax and live. The results of this research can provide input for the plans for the ‘Kenniswerf’.
Outcomes:	This study explores how Vlissingen can better attract and retain students and young professionals. Based on a student survey and expert interviews, the research identifies key challenges such as limited job opportunities, lack of vibrant social life, housing shortages, and weak city branding. These issues hinder long-term engagement but also present opportunities for targeted improvement. Initiatives like Kenniswerf—a cultural and innovation hub—offer a promising path forward by combining student events, business partnerships, and community branding. Other suggestions include expanding student-friendly housing, improving public safety and perception, and using digital platforms to promote the city’s unique maritime identity. The study concludes that making Vlissingen more attractive for young people is essential for the city’s broader economic and cultural regeneration. With coordinated action among the university, local government, and businesses, Vlissingen can transform into a dynamic, student-focused city and avoid the risk of stagnation.
Commissioned for:

Rob Schram (Gemeente Vlissingen)
Cindy Kooi (Gemeente Vlissingen)