Breda has officially become the first National Park City in the Netherlands. The National Park City Foundation coordinated an inspiring peer review process, with support from Salzburg Global and World Urban Parks, leading to this landmark recognition.
A Grassroots Movement at Its Heart
Breda National Park City is a grassroots movement driven by the people of the city. Nature enthusiasts, gardeners, artists, entrepreneurs, vegetable growers, and tree planters all play a part. In short, anyone who wants to enhance urban biodiversity can get involved.
Dan Raven-Ellison, original founder of the National Park City movement, said:
“We have been highly impressed by Breda and the National Park City team. Breda’s National Park City journey is led by a highly skilled, enthusiastic and committed team. Together they have a deep understanding of the city, its people and nature, and have ambitious plans to make Breda greener, healthier, wilder and fairer.”
An Ambitious Vision for 2030
Breda aims to become one of the most nature-rich cities in Europe by 2030. To achieve this, the city works closely with the municipality of Breda, which shares the same goal within its urban planning policies. Achieving National Park City status is a significant first step on that journey.
Breda National Park City also works to nurture and expand people’s connection with urban nature. It does this by inspiring communities with exemplary initiatives, connecting existing groups to build a strong network, and supporting new initiatives as they get started.
Mark Cridge, Executive Director of the National Park City Foundation said:
“We have learned so much from the team at Breda National Park City in how they have used the National Park City story to inspire people to get involved across the city, and bring together the many existing initiatives and groups who have been busy making Breda a place that’s already well connected with nature. We’re excited to see how Breda will inspire other Dutch cities to pursue National Park City status.”
How Breda Earned Its Status
Organisers from established and nominated National Park Cities led the peer review process, alongside invited experts from Adelaide, Chattanooga, London, and the Netherlands. Together they reviewed the detailed plans and evidence submitted by the Breda National Park City campaign. The National Park City Foundation formally grants recognition, in conjunction with World Urban Parks and Salzburg Global Seminar.
The Growing National Park City Family
Breda is now the fourth city to achieve National Park City status, joining London (2019), Adelaide (2021), and Chattanooga (2025). Furthermore, nine other cities are currently on their journey towards securing the same status.
