haarlemsdagbladJun 25, 2026, 14:00

André receives support after addressing city council on day out for Phila Boschpark: ‘Residents rarely get outside for more than a short walk’

André, a resident of Phila Boschpark, addressed the city council to highlight the lack of recreational outings for residents with disabilities due to logistical and financial challenges. His appeal received significant support and led to the launch of a citizen initiative to help residents enjoy activities beyond simple neighborhood walks.

Politics Lifestyle Health Haarlem Netherlands

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Repression or care? Council divided on how to tackle drug user nuisance

The Amsterdam city council is debating how to manage the increasing nuisance caused by homeless drug users, struggling to balance repressive enforcement with necessary social care. Mayor Femke Halsema acknowledged the complex intersection of housing shortages and mental health system failures, while political parties remain divided on issues like public sleeping bans and the appropriate level of police intervention.

Motions to make Haarlem playgrounds more accessible for children with disabilities

Local political parties in Haarlem are introducing four motions to the city council to improve the accessibility of public playgrounds for children with disabilities. The proposed measures include installing inclusive play equipment, ensuring nearby disabled parking, and involving experts with lived experience in the planning process.

'Waste detectives' to become permanent as waste nuisance remains high in Haarlemmermeer

The municipality of Haarlemmermeer has decided to permanently employ a specialized enforcement team, known as 'waste detectives,' to combat illegal dumping and waste placed next to containers. Despite a significant increase in fines and warnings issued since the project's inception, residents report that the problem of trash accumulation remains persistent in their neighborhoods.

Zandvoort councilor wants to ban filming 'voyeur glasses' on the beach: 'Enforcement is needed'

Local politician Mirko Gerrits is calling for increased enforcement in Zandvoort after reports revealed that people are secretly filming women on the beach using Meta smart glasses. The illicit footage is being shared in private groups on Telegram, prompting local officials to label the behavior as unacceptable despite police noting the difficulty in identifying and regulating the use of these devices.

Unrest in Zwanenburg due to squatters in demolition building next to primary school

Parents of students at De Kameleon primary school in Zwanenburg have expressed concerns after squatters occupied a vacant school building located directly next to the campus. While the municipality intends to eventually demolish the building following an asbestos inspection, they are not currently pursuing an eviction despite installing security cameras to monitor the situation.