Construction work has started on Eleven Square, a major new neighbourhood on Johan Cruijff Boulevard in Amsterdam-Zuidoost. The site sits next to AFAS Live and directly opposite the Johan Cruijff ArenA on the former grass field known as Arenapark.
The project will deliver four new buildings containing a total of 1,100 owner-occupied and rental apartments. The plans include 400 social housing student units, alongside new shops, restaurants, cafes, and a theatre.
Environmental manager Laura Schaik explained that the location was chosen because of the available space, noting that the city simply needs more housing.
Tallest residential tower in the city
The centerpiece of Eleven Square will be Amsterdam’s tallest residential tower. The structure will rise 145 metres across 44 floors, offering panoramic views over Zuidoost and the surrounding area.
Local residents have welcomed the project, pointing to the potential employment and amenities it could bring to the Bijlmer. Construction of the main residential tower is scheduled to run until the end of 2029.
Piling work is already underway behind the site fences. Planning developer Dennis Kodde – van Eck noted that progress has gone according to plan since work started before the summer holidays.
Managing traffic around events
Building a dense mixed-use project in a busy entertainment district presents logistical challenges. Developers aim to keep event venues accessible and minimise disruption for visitors and road users throughout the multi-year build.
Instead of closing surrounding roads, site managers will rely on temporary traffic stops. Traffic will be held back briefly and safely only when heavy transports arrive or during crane lifts, allowing vehicles to proceed once the movement is complete.
Specific traffic arrangements are in place for drivers in the area. Motorists can reach parking garage P5 via Holterbergweg and De Entree, or access parking garage P6 via Hoogoorddreef, Haaksbergweg, and De Corridor.
Vehicles will continue to travel past the Hoogoordplein bus station to Hoogoorddreef until the end of 2026.
