First pile signals start of future-proof Wilhelmina Children’s Hospital

On Thursday 28 November the first pile has been driven, marking the start of the renovation of the Wilhelmina Children’s Hospital (WKZ). With this renovation the WKZ/UMC Utrecht takes a big step towards a future-proof children’s hospital, where innovative and sustainable care is provided to the patients and their families. A common thread of the renovation is the creation of space, tranquility and privacy for both child and parent or caregiver.
The renovation will begin with the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) and High Care and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), which will transition from inpatient wards to single rooms. This will allow parents or caregivers to stay and stay overnight with their sick child. This contributes to family-oriented care, where parents or caregivers are closely involved in their child’s care. In this way, they have more control and privacy together.
In addition to these departments, the Pregnancy and Triage Departments are also being remodeled, and the Medium Care Neonatology and Maternity Departments are being merged into family rooms, where parents and newborns can stay together in a personalized environment. All is expected to be completed by mid-2027.
Josefien Kursten, member of the Executive Board of the UMC Utrecht: “With this renovation, we are focusing on the care of tomorrow. By transforming the hospital into a place where patients with their families and colleagues are central. In the new and renovated departments we will work differently to provide better family-oriented care. We will ensure that our working environment and the healthcare technologies we use are ready for the future.”
Keep an eye on the website for up-to-date information.

Roadworks Universiteitsweg (phase 2) from 24 to 26 April
In the weekend from Friday 24 April to Sunday 26 April, the second phase of the works on Universiteitsweg will be carried out. This phase involves replacing the asphalt surface layers on the southern section of the road, between Leuvenlaan and the tram tracks.

Looking back at the successful Utrecht Science Park Spring Café: the power of an ecosystem in setting up and running a startup
On Thursday, April 9, the Utrecht Science Park Spring Café took place at UtrechtInc. In an informal setting, colleagues, partners, and stakeholders gathered to meet and catch up on developments within the Utrecht Science Park.

Utrecht Science Week: Art and science unite at the Betweter Festival on 25 September
From 25 September to 4 October, the Utrecht Science Park will be alive with curiosity and exploration during the annual Utrecht Science Week. For over a week, the Utrecht Science Park opens its doors to everyone interested in both applied and fundamental science. In close collaboration with various partners, a diverse programme is put together, with special focus on themes such as sustainability and health.

Inspiring and connecting visit by the President of Estonia to Utrecht Science Park
On Wednesday, April 8, 2026, the President of Estonia, Mr. Alar Karis, together with his wife Sirje Karis, ambassador Mr. Paul Teesalu and a delegation from the Estonian Health Ecosystem, visited the Utrecht Science Park. During the visit, much knowledge was exchanged and valuable connections were made.