The Right to Build Task Force is leading a study visit to the Netherlands on the 26-27 September 2018, to showcase innovative examples of Custom and Self Build.
The Netherlands has long been an exemplary country when it comes to delivering new routes to housing through owner-commissioned homes, with Task Force Ambassador Richard Bacon MP describing the country as “one of Europe’s trailblazers for Custom and Self Build housing.”
The Netherlands was also the inspiration for the Right to Build Task Force, which loosely based itself on the Dutch Expertteam Eigenbouw that successfully accelerated Custom and Self Build housing in the country.
Sponsored by Custom Build Homes, the visit offers a rare opportunity to experience projects in a range of settings, from small- to large-scale, with experts on hand to explain the approaches taken and learning points that can be shared.
The study visit has been specifically curated to provide those working in housing, planning or development with the tools to kick-start delivery of successful Custom and Self Build schemes in the UK. The two day programme will be guided by Expertteam member and Right to Build Task Force Expert Jacqueline Tellinga, who will introduce the schemes we visit, giving insights and practical considerations.
Task Force Director Mario Wolf will also be on the visit, sharing advice on how to apply these Dutch examples in the UK context, capitalising on best practice and streamlining delivery.
The visit also offers a unique opportunity to network and gain insight and advice about the practicalities of a range of projects and approaches, from both peers and experts.
The developments visited will include some of the most important examples of Custom and Self Build housing, including:
- Amsterdam
- Almere (main picture)
- The Hague
- Delft
- Nieuw Leiden
Task Force Director Mario Wolf said: “This visit will give anyone involved in owner-commissioned housing invaluable intelligence from the Dutch experience of enabling more Custom and Self Build housing, particularly examining opportunities for factoring in affordability and scale.
“We’ve designed it to help stakeholders understand what works and the pitfalls that can be avoided. Seeing these projects as actual homes helps realise the theory that underpins the sector, and shows the diversity that can be delivered.”
Similar events have been attended by a range of stakeholders, including: local politicians; housing, planning, regeneration, development and estates officers; developers, housebuilders and housing associations; community groups; landowners, and; consultants and advisors.
“On our visit to The Netherlands in 2016 we visited completed schemes and heard first-hand from Jacqueline Tellinga about the Dutch experience. This visit inspired our emerging plans for Custom and Self Build at Ebbsfleet Garden City,” said Simon Harrison, Head of Design, Ebbsfleet Development Corporation.
Practicalities
The visit costs £300 (+ VAT) per person which excludes flights, which must be arranged independently.
It involves a considerable amount of walking around sites, with travel provided between projects by coach, so comfortable shoes are a must.
Included:
- 1 night hotel accommodation (B&B, single occupancy)
- 1 set-menu dinner
- Internal coach transport
- Tour guide
Not included: Flights, lunches/snacks/drinks.
Click here for more information or to book.
Image credits: courtesy of P. Singleton.
Did you know that the Right to Build Task Force’s website has in-depth case studies of many European models of Custom and Self Build, as well as UK-based projects? Find out more on the Right to Build Toolkit.
