Noorderhaven (De Mars) Zutphen

Noorderhaven forms part of the De Mars redevelopment area in Zutphen. A former industrial site on the river IJssel has been transformed into a vibrant urban centre. The location, close to both the town centre and the stunning landscape of the IJssel, as well as the area’s history, inspired the design. In addition to its industrial heritage, the southern part of the development site is situated on land that was once home to the town’s ramparts. The design capitalises on this opportunity by creating a series of green and blue spaces along the line of the former fortifications. This has resulted in the Noorderhaven, where the river is literally drawn into the area, the central water square and the Ettigerpark. Coenensparklaan and the station promenade connect these spaces and provide a stage for several historic buildings to serve as eye-catchers and character-defining features.

The urban live-work environment is further supported by good accessibility via the railway and the access road that has been extended to the A1 free way. The neighbourhood is firmly embedded in the urban fabric.

Two spacious railway underpasses (the Marstunnel for cars and the Kostverlorentunnel for non-motorised traffic) provide quick connections to the city centre. The construction of the Marstunnel has allowed the IJsselkade to be kept free of motorised traffic and connected to the IJsselkade in the centre of Zutphen for pedestrians and cyclists.

As a result, the area functions as an extension of the city centre and features a design that, in terms of size, scale and materials, is characteristic of Zutphen.

The streets have brick pavements, active plinths and, on one side, a substantial green verge lined with trees. The long, clean lines of the urban design plan are softened by slight bends, creating surprising and varied perspectives on the green corridors. Cars do not dominate the streetscape. Street parking is permitted on one side only. Otherwise, parking is provided in buildings or in small courtyards.

Secure, green courtyards serve as meeting places and play areas for young children. The baked pavers reinforce the historic character and are sustainable due to their long lifespan.
Due to its past as a stronghold, the ground is raised and sandy. This allows for rainwater infiltration. All rainwater is infiltrated via an IT sewer beneath the road.

The IJssel Front
To the north of the harbour lies the IJssel Front, where the buildings along the IJssel, just like in the old town centre, feature the characteristic white façades. In this neighbourhood, the landscape of the floodplains has extended into the district. The development is situated at the level of the dyke, creating space for underground parking.

The harbour
Like the River IJssel, the Noorderhaven experiences fluctuating water levels. The harbour’s design takes seasonal changes and flooding into account. There is a path along the lower level (in summer) and a path along the upper level (in winter). Historic railway tracks have been preserved and incorporated into the paving around the harbour. At the head of the harbour, there is a fantastic view and, at the same time, a slightly sunken area for rest and relaxation. The many recreational cyclists can take a break here out of the wind by the IJssel.

The Park
Ettegerpark is lush, rugged and natural in character. Thanks to broad pallet of native plants and trees and a variation of loose and dense plantings, it is ecologically rich.
It is a spacious neighbourhood park with open areas that offer space for various activities and free use. The generous, inclusive playground is a major attraction. It is the go-to play area for local children, and children with disabilities come here from all over the surrounding area. Here, they can play together to their heart’s content.

The Water Square
The Water Square is a lovely green and cool spot. The playful water feature, the long benches and the profusion of flowering perennials, bulbs and (multi-stemmed) trees make it the neighbourhood’s favourite meeting place.

Client: City of Zutphen
Landscape architect: Baljon landscape architects
City planner: KCAP

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