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.
31 May running festival at Utrecht Science Park; read all about accessibility
On Sunday 31 May 2026, Utrecht will once again be fully dedicated to the HiPRO Utrecht Marathon supported by Utrecht Science Park. With a large amount of participants in the previous edition, the event has grown into a staple for runners from Utrecht and far beyond. This year also promises to be a special edition, featuring the new addition of the Dutch National Championships Half Marathon (NK Halve Marathon). Utrecht Science Park will once again be the vibrant heart of the event, where sport, energy, and connection come together.
Jan Henk van der Velden leaves Utrecht Science Park Foundation and becomes the new Managing Director at Utrechtse Heuvelrug National Park
After nine years, Jan Henk van der Velden will step down as Managing Director of the Utrecht Science Park Foundation effective this coming July 1. As of September 1, 2026, Jan Henk will become Managing Director of the Utrechtse Heuvelrug National Park Foundation. He announced his departure several months ago.
UMC Utrecht takes third surgical robot into use
UMC Utrecht has commissioned a third surgical robot. With the arrival of the latest generation, the Da Vinci 5, even more patients can be operated on with minimal stress. This leads to fewer complications and faster recovery. “Apart from the benefits for patients, the Da Vinci 5 also allows us to train even better,” says Jelle Ruurda, gastrointestinal surgeon and professor of robot-assisted minimally invasive surgery. “At the touch of a button, colleagues can watch remotely, and even learn from previous operations. This way we share knowledge faster and more widely.” The hospital is thus building on a tradition of 25 years at the forefront of robotic surgery.
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.