Rotterdam's Zwaanshalskwartier: How a social hotspot became a lively trendy district

The Zwaanshalskwartier is located in the Oude Noorden, the “Old North” of Rotterdam, and was officially classified as a “Krachtwijk” (social hotspot) in the mid-noughties. For around 20 years, it has been developed jointly by the city and the Havensteder housing association to promote independent entrepreneurs and exclude large chains.

• ?How long can the model be maintained without displacing original residents?
• ?What specific measures has Havensteder taken to ensure affordable rents?
• ?How does the neighborhood's success affect housing costs in the surrounding Oude Noorden?