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Urban renewal in the heart of Amsterdam
together with the municipality to make the area even more attractive. Art markets were being organized, and galleries and workspaces opened to artists and visitors. The municipality of Amsterdam even provided subsidies to De Slang’s artists and entrepreneurs. The special attributes of the Tabakspanden created a unique tourist attraction that proved excellent for city marketing. If they become a dull grey building block, this unique character will be lost forever.
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Residents don’t give up When walking past the Tabakspanden one Saturday, I noticed “for sale” signs on the buildings. “The end is near”, was my first thought. Fortunately, this sign has been put there by residents and squatters who have formed Makelaar Tabak (real estate agent Tabak). Together, they called on the Mayor of Amsterdam not to proceed with eviction, but instead to demand that De Key clarify their plans for the future of the Tabakspanden. De Key has been saying for years that they will start building and renovating, but so far nothing has happened. For example, resident Peter Klashorst lived in the building two months after he received a notice of eviction. The Spuistraat Association was also established to support Tabakspanden residents and stand up for the history and culture of the Spuistraat. Spuistraat has an important commercial value, as many tourists and shoppers walk along this street to get from Dam Square to the Nine Streets. Art markets are well visited and the Spuistraat has become a tourist attraction because of its special qualities and central location.
What’s next?
Eventually the Tabakspanden residents left their homes
in March 2015. De Key started demolishing parts of
the buildings and will renovate the other part. In the near future 69 apartments will arise there where it once was lively and colorful. Also 1600 square meters are available for business premises, of which 40% is destined for creative and cultural features, with additional 36 parking spaces. Thanks to Mark from the Slangenpand for your time and stories. ¢
