rssFeb 26, 2026, 05:00

Coastal towns want mandatory insurance after cutter runs aground, Fisherman's Union supportive

Coastal municipalities in North Holland are advocating for mandatory liability insurance for vessels under 300 tons following the costly stranding of an uninsured cutter near Zandvoort. The Dutch Fishermen's Union supports the proposal, emphasizing that ship owners should have a social responsibility to cover potential salvage costs similar to car owners. A formal request for the regulation has been sent to the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management.

Politics Economy Business Haarlem Netherlands

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Based on reporting by rss. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

Haarlem takes financial risk with new Spaarne Gasthuis construction

Haarlem is assuming significant financial risk by providing a 100 million euro guarantee and committing to purchase the current hospital site for 25 million euros to keep the Spaarne Gasthuis in the city. The initiative ensures 24-hour emergency care remains in Haarlem, though the city has deferred requirements for building staff housing.

More than 76,000 rental homes have already disappeared from the market – landlords complain about affordable rent legislation

Since the introduction of the Affordable Rent Act in 2024, over 76,000 rental homes have been sold off by landlords across the Netherlands, tightening housing supply. Rental prices are simultaneously rising faster than inflation, with Amsterdam, Amstelveen, and Haarlem remaining among the most expensive areas for tenants.

Trade with Russia remains lucrative, but companies face risks

Despite 21 rounds of European Union sanctions against Russia, some businesses continue to profit by using third-party countries to bypass export restrictions. Experts warn that while such trade is lucrative, it carries significant legal risks, including criminal prosecution and prison time for those who intentionally circumvent these measures.

Private landlords are renting out fewer properties in the city: "A problem for students"

Private rental properties in Amsterdam have decreased by 18 percent in three years as landlords sell their units due to new rent control laws and increased taxation. While this shift favors buyers, it creates a significant housing crisis for students and individuals who cannot afford to purchase property in the city.

No funding for Zuidasdok megaproject in new cabinet plans

The Dutch government has frozen funding for the northern part of the Zuidasdok project to prioritize the maintenance of existing national infrastructure. This decision delays one of the country's largest development projects, sparking concerns in Amsterdam over long-term economic and accessibility impacts.