On 29 January, the municipal council approved compensation for University College Roosevelt following the loss of the building on Helm. This clarity is experienced by UCR as an important step forward. Uncertainty surrounding the building had been ongoing since 2023 and for a long time caused ambiguity for multiple parties involved. With this decision, there is once again room for calm and for planning for the future.

Although UCR fulfilled all of its contractual obligations throughout this period, the university found itself in a difficult position when it became clear that the use of a building under an indefinite lease might come to an end. This also created uncertainty for UCR, including about the space available for students and staff.

Over the past nearly three years, UCR has therefore worked with others to look for solutions. In doing so, the university considered not only its own situation, but also that of Sterrenwacht Middelburg. The shared aim throughout was to find a solution that does justice to the different interests involved and to the significance of both organisations for the city.

That an outcome has now been reached is partly due to the willingness of several parties, including UCR, to remain flexible and make compromises. This approach has contributed to a solution that offers perspective for the future.

UCR is pleased that the investment makes it possible to continue facilitating students and staff properly, particularly following the loss of one of its university buildings, the first building in which UCR was housed. The planned renovation of the buildings on Stadhuisstraat, Lange Noordstraat and Sint Sebastianstraat will provide replacement lecture rooms, new study spaces and a shared common area, as well as replacement office space. This ensures that education and the support of students and staff can continue effectively.

At the same time, the university remains committed to playing an active and accessible role within the community of Middelburg and Zeeland. This includes regional collaborations, the Delta Climate Center, Community Engaged Learning, open invitations to the opening of the academic year, and future public lectures.

UCR is also pleased for the Sterrenwacht that this decision aligns with their wish to remain in the building of their first choice. UCR hopes that this new sense of security, together with further investments by the Gemeente Middelburg in the Sterrenwacht, will contribute to its continued development and to broader opportunities to welcome the public. This aligns with a motion by GL-PvdA, which calls for increasing the public accessibility of the Sterrenwacht and which UCR supports.

With this decision, a period of uncertainty comes to an end and space is created to continue building cooperation, engagement, and a strong connection with the city and the region.