rssNov 12, 2026, 15:35

Amsterdam to appeal new Schiphol rules after all, PRO goes against its own alderman

The Amsterdam city council has voted to challenge new operational regulations for Schiphol Airport in court, acting against the recommendation of their own alderman. The council aims to push for a night flight ban and a reduction in total flight movements to better protect residents from noise pollution.

The Amsterdam city council has voted to initiate legal action against the new regulations for Schiphol Airport, contradicting the position of Alderman Sofyan Mbarki. A majority coalition, including PRO, the Party for the Animals, and D66, passed a motion requiring the city to join existing appeals against the new Airport Traffic Decree by December 8. The council aims to enforce a total night closure between 23.00 and 07.00 and reduce the total number of annual flight movements to 400,000.

Supporters of the motion argue that the current government-imposed limit of 478,000 flights is insufficient to protect residents from noise pollution. They contend that the new rules effectively legalize excessive noise levels rather than curbing them. Although Alderman Mbarki previously warned that legal action might not guarantee better outcomes and that the current framework at least provides a basis for enforcement, the council remains committed to pursuing a stricter policy. The move follows similar legal steps taken by other municipalities, such as Uithoorn, against the airport's new operational rules.

Politics Lifestyle Amsterdam Netherlands

Read original ↗

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

Amsterdam wants to increase tourist tax: what are the consequences and is it wise?

The Amsterdam city council is considering raising its tourist tax to 20 percent by 2031 to curb the city's ongoing overtourism issues and improve local livability. The proposal has drawn criticism from industry experts and political opponents, who argue that the tax will harm businesses and fail to effectively manage visitor numbers.

Half a million in subsidies to look back on the Olympic Games of a century ago

Amsterdam is providing a 550,000 euro subsidy to the Stichting 100 jaar Spelen foundation to celebrate the centennial of the 1928 Olympic Games. Planned activities for 2028 will highlight the event's historical significance, including the first participation of women in athletics and the introduction of local parking signs.

Halsema: no link between Red Line demonstration and Kristallnacht commemoration

Amsterdam Mayor Femke Halsema has stated there is no link between the Red Line demonstration and the Kristallnacht commemoration, following criticism from Jewish community leaders. During a city council meeting, Halsema supported a message of unity and peace, distancing the memorial from political protests.

Almost entire city council wants House of Representatives to stop calling for Halsema's dismissal

A large majority of the Amsterdam city council has formally urged members of the Dutch House of Representatives to refrain from calling for Mayor Femke Halsema's dismissal. The council members argue that only the local government has the authority to oversee the mayor and that national motions against her undermine the democratic legal system.

Letter from entrepreneurs to municipality on tourist tax hike: "Many negative consequences"

Business leaders in Amsterdam are urging the city council to pause and reconsider a planned hike in tourist tax that could reach 20 percent by 2031. They warn that the combined effect of this tax and a national VAT increase will place a 41 percent burden on hotel stays, threatening the viability of the city's hospitality and events sectors.