How can nature areas facilitate the development of a long-term vision on sustainable mobility that is supported by the organisations shaping the region?
Through project MONA pilot A, the stakeholders of National Park Utrechtse Heuvelrug (NPUH) in the Netherlands are developing an integrated approach to sustainable recreational mobility. Central to this is a co-created regional vision for 2050, developed through an extensive multilevel stakeholder process in 2024 and 2025, involving public authorities, landowners, nature organisations, transport/infrastructure actors, and recreation groups.
NPUH facilitated the trajectory as a politically neutral facilitator and connector, bringing stakeholders together and supporting regional cross-sector cooperation as part of MONA.
The ambition was twofold: to develop a high-level shared regional vision; and to create broad support and ownership among stakeholders. This involves establishing a common strategic framework for green recreational mobility across the park and its flanks, recognising that mobility does not stop at municipal boundaries. Sustainable connections between cities and surrounding natural areas are essential.
Regional Vision Development Guide
In this new MONA guide, NPUH provides an evaluation of the process through which the regional vision was developed, including an overview of phases and actions, and how the different elements are interconnected (see below model for a high-level overview).
PHASES VISION DEVELOPMENT Sustainable mobility vision Utrechtse Heuvelrug |
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Knowledge development Raising Awareness Preparation |
The process was not only about developing a vision. It was about creating shared ownership, building trust and finding common ground between different interests and responsibilities. At its core were shared ambitions: to reduce recreational pressure of car-based travel on nature by encouraging a shift towards walking, cycling, public transport and shared mobility, contributing to a Utrechtse Heuvelrug nature area that is both accessible and vital.
The lessons learned and practical examples can provide valuable insights for other peri-urban nature areas and destinations facing similar challenges, particularly those seeking to engage stakeholders in developing a strong, shared vision for more sustainable recreational mobility. NPUH's vision development case can serve as a leading example for other nature destinations in North-West Europe and beyond.
You can access the Regional Vision Development Guide here.
From vision to implementation
The guide evaluates the vision development process, while also looking ahead towards the next phase: moving from vision development to implementation to ensure a green, accessible and future-proof mobility system for the Utrechtse Heuvelrug.