Demographic changes in Dutch new towns; the effects on facilities and the built environment

Abstract

This research examines the changes in household demographics, age, and population in Dutch new towns and their implications for the built environment. The study investigates how household demographics and population dynamics evolved in Dutch new towns. How the changing makeup of households and age demographics affect facilities within new towns. And how the changing makeup of households and age demographics impact new towns' spatial and physical aspects.

The findings reveal diverse population dynamics, influenced by governmental growth strategies, across new towns. Household sizes have decreased, and the population has aged at a faster rate compared to the Netherlands. The regressions reveal that facilities are influenced by demographic changes. This holds true for both new towns and the entirety of the Netherlands. However, the demographic shifts in new towns are a lot more more substantial.

The abundance of single-family homes and the rapid construction of homes within a condensed timeframe have resulted in a large influx of a homogeneous population. Consequently, the facilities experience much greater fluctuations in demographics in new towns, leading to a mismatch in facilities, as well as in the physical space.

Overall, this research contributes to understanding the changes in household demographics and their effects on the built environment in Dutch new towns. The findings provide insights for future developments and policy recommendations, enhancing liveability and meeting the needs of changing populations.