Festive launch for the new ACLO Sports Centre

During a festive gathering on Thursday, officials from the University of Groningen, Hanze University and the ACLO gave the go-ahead for the construction of the new Sports Centre on the Zernike Campus. Piling work began before the summer. In the coming period, the contractor Hegeman and the installation firm BAM Integrale Projecten Noord will be making headway with this project.

Parade of student sports clubs

The celebrations began with a colourful parade of all the ACLO’s student sports clubs towards the construction site. With club flags, hockey sticks, rackets, balls and other sports equipment, they created a festive and inspiring atmosphere that embodies student sports culture in Groningen.

A home for sport and community

Isa Houtsma, chair of the ACLO, speaks proudly about the significance of the forthcoming Sports Centre: ‘It’s wonderful that we’ve now really got started on building the new Sports Centre. A place where everyone feels at home and where sport, relaxation and connection take centre stage. This will be a huge step forward for our 20,000 sports participants and 47 student sports clubs.’

Niels van den Bovenkamp, director of the Sports Centre, is also delighted with this development: ‘After years of preparation, during which we have worked closely together, we are today marking the start of construction: a wonderful milestone. This is the moment when all our preparations are set to become a reality. We are looking forward to the opening in 2028, when we hope to give everyone a warm welcome to our new sports centre.’

Modern sports facilities

The new Sports Centre, with a gross floor area of approximately 12,500 m², was designed by AGS Architects. It offers a wide range of modern sports facilities and is focused on sustainability, inclusivity and an optimal user experience. During the design process, particular attention was paid to acoustics, air circulation and the indoor climate, to ensure that athletes and visitors feel comfortable. ‘In our new sports facilities, we will soon be offering a high-quality and varied range of sports activities,’ says Van den Bovenkamp proudly. ‘Whether you’re a beginner or a talented athlete, here you’ll find the space to develop your skills and fully embrace your passion for sport.’

The foundation for vibrant campuses

Petra Smeets, a member of the Executive Board at Hanze University, and Hans Biemans, Vice-Chair of the University of Groningen, both emphasise the importance of the new sports centre. ‘With this new sports centre, we are investing together in a healthy, vibrant and resilient campus,’ says Petra Smeets. ‘Sport contributes to both our physical and mental health and brings people together. At the same time, the Sports Centre will become an inspiring learning environment for our Physical Education students, amongst others. Here, they will develop the knowledge and skills to encourage others to get active and thus make a contribution to society.’

Hans Biemans also emphasises the importance of the new Sports Centre for the university’s wellbeing strategy. ‘Sport not only encourages physical activity, but also mental resilience, social connection and personal growth – both through participating in sport themselves and through involvement in student councils, committees or informal activities. In this way, we contribute to a healthy balance between study, work and leisure, which is essential for the wellbeing of our community.’

Planning and progress

The 653 piles have now been driven into the ground. Over the coming period, Hegeman and BAM Integrale Projecten Noord will continue with the visible construction work. Construction is expected to take two years, with completion scheduled for 2028.

Parties involved