Dutch Parliament Backs Faster Development of Noordwijk's Space Campus

2025-09-12 community

Noordwijk, Friday, 12 September 2025.
The Dutch Parliament has approved a motion to expedite the NL Space Campus project in Noordwijk, emphasizing collaboration with ESA and EUSPA to strengthen the Netherlands’ role in the space sector.

Accelerated Development Plans

On 10 September 2025, the Dutch Parliament (Tweede Kamer) passed a motion to fast-track the development of the NL Space Campus located in Noordwijk. This initiative is designed to enhance cooperation with prominent European agencies, including the European Space Agency (ESA) and the European Union Agency for the Space Programme (EUSPA) [1]. The project places significant emphasis on fostering innovation and technology advancement in the space sector [7].

Government and Local Support

The motion was introduced by NSC and PvdA/GroenLinks and gained the approval of 12 out of 15 parties in the Tweede Kamer, with only PVV, PvdD, and SGP opposing it [1]. The plan requires the Dutch government, along with the province of Zuid-Holland and the municipality of Noordwijk, to collaborate on a concrete execution program for the campus’s accelerated development [1]. This includes initiatives like the ‘Space for Talent’ program and enhancing facilities for education, research, and collaborative innovation [1].

Economic and Strategic Goals

The NL Space Campus aims to strengthen the Netherlands’ position within the European space sector and to serve as a major international hub for space exploration. The project is expected to create approximately 1,500 jobs in the region, further contributing to local and national economic growth [7]. The anticipated completion date for the campus is set for 2028, marking a significant milestone in the Netherlands’ strategic investment in space technology and innovation [7].

Local Reactions and Concerns

Pim van Strien, the councilor for space affairs in Noordwijk, expressed strong enthusiasm for the motion’s approval, highlighting the broad political support for the project as a key element in advancing the Dutch space industry [1]. However, he also voiced concerns regarding the need for substantial financial investments to secure and expand the country’s role in the global space sector [1].

Bronnen

Netherlands space innovation