Flakkeesestraat 97A

I was born here in 1962, my parents lived in Nootdorp, also known as Brabantse dorp, where Zuidplein now stands. I have lived here for 62 years and still feel it is safe and familiar. Over the years I have seen many changes; more culture and diversity have been added, which greatly benefits the neighbourhood. Also, with the arrival of housing in the area, there has been more attention for the residents. Now I see the neighbourhood becoming more beautiful again because of much new construction, the renovated Zuidplein and the renewed bus station, making it easier for everyone to reach. Zuiderpark has become a beautiful place. It is wonderful to see how much has changed over all these years. As for hygiene, some improvement is needed, but this is largely up to the residents themselves; we must do this together to get a cleaner neighbourhood. Despite my concerns about hygiene, I will never leave; this is my home.

I was born here in 1962, over the years a lot has changed, more community centres have been added where residents can go daily so they are not alone. What I like about the neighbourhood is that you know everyone and if something is wrong, you are always helped. It would be nice if there could be more social housing, there are too few homes for young people, causing them to have to live at home longer.

The Carnissen neighbourhood is a very quiet area, but lately a lot of things have been happening, like recently a house caught fire. I happened to live right next to that house and my house almost caught fire too. I think the neighbourhood should be safer because there are also a lot of young children.

Rotterdam Zuid is always portrayed as some dangerous neighbourhood, but I strongly disagree. I've been living here for a year and a half now, my boyfriend even longer, and I have never felt unsafe. Yes, of course things happen, but you don't get involved. And that happens everywhere. I came from a quiet village and was afraid it would be a big transition, but now, a year and a half later, I'm very happy I live here. We have a nice balcony overlooking a long street and we recognise all the dogs in the neighbourhood because we see them out walking with their owners every day. The only downside I can think of is that there is not enough space to dispose of your waste, so a lot of rubbish and other things are left next to the bins, and then the birds tear it apart, everything ends up everywhere, and no one cleans it up.

Affordable neighbourhood with decent amenities. The area could be a bit cleaner and more pleasant.

The price you pay to live here is proportionate to what you get; you don't pay much but you do live in a decent house. People here just aren't very connected to the neighbourhood, everyone lives their own life and leaves each other alone. Some streets could do with a makeover.