Expansion of Leiden University in the heart of The Hague

Leiden University plans to expand in The Hague by moving into the former V&D building in the city centre. The university intends to rent the top floors from 2025, thereby extending its campus in The Hague. If successful, the university will increase its presence, benefiting the surrounding area. The municipality of The Hague has signed a cooperation agreement and will provide up to ten million euros for the expansion.

The V&D building requires extensive renovation and possibly a height increase. The entrance on the Spui, a national monument, requires restoration, and the facade of the building will be modified. An animation illustrates plans for a large staircase providing access to higher floors, including lecture halls. The building forms a right angle to the Grote Marktstraat, where the basement, ground floor and first floor will remain retail space. Access to a large basement for bicycle storage will be provided on the Spui.

The expansion promotes The Hague as a university city, stimulates the knowledge economy and employment, and attracts highly educated young people. The Hague campus currently accommodates 7,000 students and 550 staff, but the new Grote Marktstraat location is expected to increase capacity to 9,000 students and 700 staff.

The project will restore the 1928 national monument with its historic entrance on the Spui. The aforementioned renovations will preserve the historical integrity of the building while making it suitable for its new university function.