Hoe klinkt de Garenmarkt?

In 2017, Marcel Cobussen was approached by two residents of the Kruitschip, Mr. Pieters and Mr. Frencken, who expressed concerns about the plans for the redevelopment of the Garenmarkt, particularly with regard to a possible increase in noise nuisance in the proposed park/square. In May 2018, Cobussen met with Philippine van der Schuyt and Remko Slavenburg (Municipality of Leiden) to discuss the acoustic aspects that could be associated with the redevelopment of the Garenmarkt.

On this basis, Cobussen was invited to carry out a short-term study into the acoustic (im)possibilities of the site. This resulted in the present document, which brings together a series of observations, ideas, considerations, and recommendations aimed at shaping the Garenmarkt’s auditory environment in such a way that diverse (future) users and local residents can enjoy spending time there.

In June 2018, Cobussen assembled a small research team in order to develop as broad a picture as possible of the Garenmarkt’s auditory atmosphere. The team based its work on multiple site visits, its own sound recordings, a listening exercise, notes from the Leiden project team, the pamphlet “Mooi plein aan de Garenmarkt” by the Plein aan de Garenmarkt working group, and several conversations with local residents and project leaders.