Wittenborg Takes Major Step Toward New Campus as Partners Sign Letter of Intent

10.12.2025

Wittenborg Partners With Developers to Build Sustainable Campus in Apeldoorn’s Learning District

Wittenborg University of Applied Sciences has taken a major step forward in the development of its new campus, set to become a central feature of Apeldoorn’s future Learning District in the Veldhuis neighbourhood. A letter of intent has been signed between Wittenborg, BPD | Bouwfonds Gebiedsontwikkeling and Dura Vermeer, marking the beginning of a strong collaboration between the municipality, urban developers and education partners.

The signing took place at Gemeente Apeldoorn and symbolises a shared commitment to transforming the former Nettenfabriek and Royal Talens sites into an inclusive, vibrant and sustainable urban district where living, learning and social connection come together.

The planned campus will include high-quality educational facilities, modern student accommodation and dynamic spaces where students, young professionals and local residents can interact. It aligns with Wittenborg’s strategic vision to expand its Apeldoorn student population from 1,500 to at least 2,500 in the coming years.

CEO Maggie Feng emphasised the significance of the moment, describing the partnership as the result of “years of patience, of networking, of listening, of learning, of determination”.

“Finally, we have become official friends,” Feng said. “This friendship means that we are committed to building a new campus in our Learning District right next to Apeldoorn’s train station, where Wittenborg can grow to at least 2,500 students, continue providing much-needed beds for international students, attract and keep international and national talent and help make Apeldoorn a younger and more diverse city together with all our partners.”

The letter of intent marks the beginning of a detailed development process, with an estimated move-in date around 2030–2031. Current students will not yet be affected by the transition.

The new district is envisioned as a lively, international hub – an area designed for studying, living, working and socialising. The partners aim to create an environment where young people and young-spirited residents feel welcome, where English is spoken freely and where diversity is seen as a natural part of daily life.

“We want this to be a place where everyone wants to be,” Feng added. “A place that is young, fun, international and built on shared values. It’s not about age but mindset.”

Shared Vision for Apeldoorn’s Future

The Learning District forms part of Apeldoorn’s wider ambition to rejuvenate the city, attract more students and young professionals and build a thriving urban community. It also fits within the municipality’s long-term strategy to become a leading Green City by 2040, with emphasis on sustainable urban development, innovation, circular economy principles and the ongoing energy transition.

Apeldoorn’s strategic plan includes goals such as significantly reducing household waste by 2025 and 2030, strengthening the city centre including the Kanaalzone, improving housing availability through both temporary and permanent solutions and fostering green, future-oriented business activity.