Most recent columns

IVBN: Local flexibility as a solution to vacant retail space

Fri, 15 May 2026 06:01:18 +0200

^{This column was originally written in Dutch. This is an English translation.}

The housing crisis calls for boldness and political and administrative flexibility. Building homes above shops is a promising, sustainable solution. The fact that projects fail to get off the ground is not due to a lack of will, but to regulations, procedures and financial barriers.

By Judith Norbart, Director, IVBN

IVBN: Mid-range rentals, the social key to our housing sector

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 10:52:15 +0100

_{This column was originally written in Dutch. This is an English translation.}

Mid-range rentals are not a luxury, but a necessity. This segment represents affordable housing, forms a crucial link for mobility, and above all provides housing for people with middle incomes. This is especially true for key workers, the vital professional groups that keep our society running.

By Judith Norbart, Director, IVBN

IVBN: Calm in politics, dynamism in the country

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 10:01:15 +0100

_{This column was originally written in Dutch. This is an English translation.}

Speed and stability are key words in the formation of the cabinet. This offers opportunities: the calm of a stable cabinet provides scope to look beyond numbers and work on solutions that will structurally improve the housing market.

By Judith Norbart, Director, IVBN

Judith Norbart: Our living environment requires more than just plus points

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 10:01:22 +0100

^{This column was originally written in Dutch. This is an English translation.}

A 1.3% increase in purchasing power sounds positive, but it is meaningless if shops disappear, housing remains scarce and sustainable offices are not built. The 2026 Budget Memorandum offers some incentives, but structural choices are lacking, even though these sectors are essential for future-proof living environments.

By Judith Norbart, Director, IVBN

IVBN: Rethinking pays off, even for the government

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 06:01:25 +0200

_{This column was originally written in Dutch. This is an English translation.}

In the debate on public housing and the living environment, costs often take precedence. Every proposal is measured against the yardstick of budgetary discipline. Rightly so, because budgetary discipline ensures healthy public finances and stability.

By Judith Norbart, Director, IVBN