On August 20, a delegation of the D66-party group a working visit to Drachten. Central were the economic development of Northern Netherlands, the position of Drachten as a high-tech region and the opportunities that the Lelylijn offers for accessibility, innovation and broad prosperity.
Innovatiecluster Drachten as an example of regional cooperation
During the meeting, [he/she/they] gave Joost Krebbekx, program manager of the ICD, a presentation on the significance of the innovative manufacturing industry for the region.
The affiliated ICD companies operate worldwide. Therefore, they are heavily dependent on good national and international connections. In addition, Joost explained how the ICD brings together companies, educational institutions, and governments. In this way, the cluster stimulates innovation, talent development, and sustainable economic growth from a structured ecosystem approach.
The ICD is increasingly cited as an example of successful regional cooperation within the Dutch high-tech sector. This position was also [by] Rob Jetten emphasized during a broadcast by Nieuwsuur in October 2025.
Lelylijn offers opportunities for Drachten and Northern Netherlands
During the discussions with the D66 delegation, the relationship between economic development and accessibility was explicitly addressed. In this context, the Lelylijn was discussed as a strategic investment for the whole of the Netherlands.
The new connection can not only shorten travel times between the Northern Netherlands and Schiphol, but the Lelylijn can also increase the appeal of Drachten and the surrounding region for businesses, knowledge institutions, and talent.
Additionally, the important connection that the Lelylijn creates with Southeast Friesland was highlighted, which is the third fastest-growing economic region in the Netherlands, and has been for three consecutive years.
The eastern function of the line towards Groningen was also discussed. The presence of STEM talent at the University of Groningen and Hanze University, along with future developments such as the national AI Factory, makes visible what opportunities a better connection can offer for knowledge exchange, innovation, and labor market development. For several attendees, this provided a new and valuable perspective.
Innovative manufacturing industry visible at Philips Drachten
During the working visit, the delegation also visited Philips Drachten, the largest robotized factory in the Netherlands. This visit immediately made the innovative power of the Northern Netherlands visible. Those present expressed their appreciation for the entrepreneurship, technological expertise, and strong cooperation within the region.
The working visit thus underlined that investments in accessibility and innovation ecosystems are crucial to keeping both the northern and the Dutch economy future-proof. For the ICD, the visit also demonstrates the importance of further strengthening the connection between high-tech companies, education, government, and accessibility.
