This thesis explores the ways in which marketplaces and urban agriculture, can impact access to healthy, affordable food in Bospolder-Tussendijken, a neighbourhood in Rotterdam. With the rise of prosperity-related diseases attributed to poor nutrition, particularly in low socio-economic areas, food prices are increasing. To address these challenges, marketplaces and the integration of food production into urban settings could play an important role in mitigating this issue.

Through a combination of literature review and interviews, a framework was developed to analyze current practices regarding marketplaces and urban agriculture. Additionally, site visits and observations provided typological insights.

The research reveals that historically, marketplaces have been key drivers of urban growth, emphasizing social functions and affordability of food. However, in recent years, there has been a shift towards valuing experience over food itself. Regarding urban agriculture, its primary functions appear to be social, educational, and employment-related. Food production remains predominantly located outside or on the periphery of urban areas. By proposing the creation of a partially covered, multifunctional marketplace, the position of traditional week markets can be preserved for future generations, ensuring continued access to affordable, healthy nutrition.