rssSep 1, 2026, 07:16

Province struggles with new wind turbines near Amsterdam-Noord

The North Holland provincial council is debating the controversial installation of three wind turbines near Amsterdam-Noord due to concerns over traffic safety at the Coenplein junction. While supporters argue the project is essential for renewable energy, opponents and local residents continue to challenge the plan, which faces a potential multi-million euro legal claim if denied again.

Provincial authorities in North Holland are once again debating the installation of three wind turbines near the Noorder IJ-plas in Amsterdam-Noord. Local political parties remain divided over the project, with a majority expressing concerns that the turbines could compromise traffic safety near the busy Coenplein junction. Proponents, however, emphasize the urgent need for sustainable energy and relief for the congested power grid, noting that the project has been in procedural limbo for nearly fifteen years.

Following a previous rejection of the project in 2024, which a court later ruled was insufficiently substantiated, the provincial council must now reach a new decision. Opponents, including various political factions and residents from both Amsterdam and nearby Zaanstad, argue against the site, while supporters maintain that the turbines are vital for regional energy transition. Developer Wind Ontwikkeling Amsterdam Noord BV has warned that it will pursue a multi-million euro claim if the province fails to grant the necessary permits, leaving the final outcome to be decided next week.

Politics Business Amsterdam Netherlands

Read original ↗

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

Years of illegal use of Schiphol: environmental groups and local residents take legal action over cabinet plans

A coalition of environmental groups and residents has challenged new government regulations for Schiphol Airport at the Council of State. The plaintiffs claim the rules legitimize years of illegal operations and are seeking a mandatory reduction in flight numbers.

Amsterdam municipality investigates ban on single-use packaging

The municipality of Amsterdam is investigating a potential city-wide ban on single-use packaging, such as to-go cups and containers, to combat persistent street litter. Legal research indicates that a local ban is possible, and officials are now evaluating implementation strategies like deposit systems or universal reusable packaging programs.

Municipality investigates ban on single-use packaging: "Cleaning up is not enough"

The Amsterdam municipality is exploring a potential ban on single-use takeaway packaging to combat rising levels of street litter. Following a positive legal review, officials are now investigating implementation strategies such as reusable container systems and deposit schemes, drawing inspiration from other European cities.

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.