A unique place to work, centrally located

Economic demand

The supply of industrial sites in Apeldoorn is limited, whilst demand is growing. For this reason, the council is pressing ahead with the development of Ecofactorij II, which will add around 31 hectares to Apeldoorn’s industrial capacity.

The location of Ecofactorij II is ideal. The development site is adjacent to the urban area, yet lies outside the city and is situated at the junction of two motorways. The existing Ecofactorij I is situated to the north and is directly adjacent to it. The development site offers all the spatial possibilities to accommodate the identified economic demand for large commercial plots with a mix of logistics and manufacturing industries.

Ecofactorij II will serve as a location for businesses relocating from the city’s development areas, as well as for new businesses. The plots are at least 1 hectare in size, and the area will have an economic profile that is in keeping with Apeldoorn and Ecofactorij I.

Development that respects nature

Ecofactorij I and II are two business parks that are being merged into one. The road network of Ecofactorij I continues through the site, and the green spaces are interconnected and blend into the surrounding area. The interconnected green spaces and water features promote biodiversity and provide habitats for wildlife.

Our aspirations and goals are ambitious and require a great deal of space. It is only by combining uses cleverly, designing effectively and utilising space in a multi-purpose way that we can achieve those goals. By using space for multiple purposes, we make the most of the limited space available. In this way, we can accommodate more businesses – and therefore create more jobs. Through the added value per hectare, we are doing our bit to ensure the open countryside is used sustainably.

The plan in broad terms

A key principle of the plan is that development on each site should be compact, intensive and efficient. There are significant opportunities for multi-purpose use of the buildings, and in particular their roofs. A green roof combined with solar panels is the minimum requirement for roof use. The development options are extensive, with high building heights and the possibility of building right up to the boundaries of neighbouring businesses. At the same time, creating an attractive green space in which to work, take a break and cycle through is a key objective.

Wide, leafy avenues with water features run through the area and converge in the central park. A park situated in the middle of the Ecofactorij I and II business parks, which can be used for a variety of purposes. There is space for water retention and nature conservation. In this way, we are creating a pleasant place to spend time, a cool spot in summer, whilst also providing space for communal facilities. 25% of the total planning area will be landscaped in a green and ecological manner. In addition, at least 400 trees are planned. This is in line with the vision for a nature-inclusive and climate-resilient site.

Traffic

Access to the business park must be properly organised for lorries, cars, cyclists and pedestrians. To prevent nuisance and unsafe situations caused by additional traffic in the neighbouring residential areas, the development plan proposed closing the tunnels under the A1 and A50 (Brinkenweg, Woudhuizermark and Biezematen) to motor vehicle traffic. The tunnels would then be accessible only to cyclists, pedestrians and emergency services. On 6 July 2023, the municipal council adopted the Ecofactorij II development plan.

During the information evening on 27 November 2024, it became clear that this proposed closure was raising many questions and concerns. In the first half of 2025, we commissioned up-to-date traffic counts, and based on these, calculations were made of future traffic flows. These paint a different picture. The new traffic study provides no grounds for closing the tunnels under the A1 and A50 (Brinkenweg, Biezematen, Woudhuizermark) to motor vehicle traffic. The additional traffic resulting from the expansion of the business park can be accommodated effectively. We will, of course, keep a close eye on how traffic to and from the business park develops.

View the development plan (PDF, 34 MB)

View the frequently asked questions and answers

View the Ecofactorij 2 model study (PDF, 1.2 MB)

Sustainability ambitions set even higher

Ecofactorij I was already ahead of its time in terms of its sustainability ambitions. A smart grid was installed on the initiative of the first entrepreneurs. This was an innovative move and has proved beneficial.

Regional sustainability regulations form the basis for the development of new sites. For the development of Ecofactorij II, we are setting our sights higher. For instance, there will be a certification requirement and a sustainability adviser will be available. Participation in park management will be compulsory. The roof must be used entirely for greenery or energy generation. Cars will be parked indoors or under solar carports.

Nitrogen and ecology

In order to ensure this industrial estate complies with nature conservation legislation, various measures are required outside the plan area. Research shows that there has been an increase in nitrogen deposition in Natura 2000 sites. It is therefore necessary to offset nitrogen emissions through one or more activities outside the plan area (external offsetting).

Any protected species present must be taken into account in the plan. Alternatively, compensatory measures must be taken. The measures required depend on the protected species present and the functions of the plan area for those species.

The survey of badgers and other protected species in the project area has been completed. Based on the results, a nature compensation plan is being drawn up, prior to the development of Ecofactorij II. Where possible, the initial compensation measures are already being implemented.

Amendment to the Environmental Plan

The environmental plan specifies what a plot of land may be used for and what may be built on it. At present, the area is primarily zoned for grassland and residential use; the construction of industrial buildings is not permitted. Amending the local planning scheme requires extensive research, for example into the effects on traffic, the environment and wildlife in the area. Residents, businesses and organisations will also be given the opportunity to express their views. The local authority will summarise all written responses and provide a reply. Ultimately, the local council will decide whether to approve the amendment.

Participation

Residents and other stakeholders have been kept informed and involved at various stages over the past few years. Meetings have been organised and discussions held with residents, landowners and organisations. During these discussions, people shared their concerns and points for consideration, for example regarding heavy traffic and road safety. We are using this feedback to further develop the plans. In the coming period, the main focus will be on providing information. We will keep you informed of progress and the next steps. Once the environmental plan is available for public inspection, you will also be able to submit a formal response.

View the participation plan here (PDF, 1 MB)

View the participation report here