The National Student Union (LSVb) has proclaimed Enschede to be the best city in the Netherlands in 2018 when it comes to student accommodation. Carline van Breugel, LSVb chairperson, presented the union’s report to Jeroen Diepemaat of the City of Enschede on 7 March.
Enschede stands out when it comes to cooperation between the city and local housing associations. The University of Twente, Saxion, SJHT and Veste set up an online platform called Roomspot.nl to give students a fair chance at finding a room or apartment. The union’s report praises the initiative.
Mr Diepemaat was very happy with the city’s top ranking, emphasizing all partners worked together to turn Enschede into the nation’s best city for student accommodation. “This recognition is a true stimulus for us to work hard to keep this enviable position. We have a real interest in ensuring that students and recent graduates are able to find suitable housing here in Enschede,” he said.
New residential projects
LSVb looked at student housing policy in the 10 largest university and college cities in the country with the highest student concentrations. The union assessed local policy based on four criteria: cooperation with housing associations, private rentals, the provision of information and projects. In addition to the points mentioned above, Enschede secured its top ranking thanks to various new residential projects for students, including those with limited financial means. Furthermore, the local partners endeavour to help students feel at home in Enschede. Another goal is to encourage the development of a subsidy scheme to promote activities that will raise Enschede’s profile as an exciting and liveable student city even further.
