haarlemsdagbladMar 12, 2026, 14:44

Rat nuisance becomes last-minute Haarlem election issue with petitions, posters and protest marches

Residents and local politicians in Haarlem's Kleverpark neighborhood are pushing for urgent action against rat infestations, turning the issue into a major local election theme. The community has organized protests and petitions while officials continue to investigate the area's sewer system for defects.

Politics Health Haarlem Netherlands

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

Concerns over ending emergency care in Hoofddorp? Information evening draws few visitors

The Spaarne Gasthuis hospital plans to centralize 24-hour emergency care in Haarlem-Zuid by 2033, effectively closing the emergency department in Hoofddorp. Despite significant public and political backlash regarding travel times, a recent information evening in Hoofddorp drew very few attendees.

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.

Concerns in Haarlemmermeer as emergency care moves to Haarlem

The Spaarne Gasthuis will move its emergency and inpatient services from Hoofddorp to a new location in Haarlem by 2033 to better manage staffing shortages. Local officials in Haarlemmermeer are critical of the decision, fearing that the loss of full-service care will negatively impact the region's rapidly growing population.

Spaarne Gasthuis to build entirely new hospital in Haarlem

Spaarne Gasthuis plans to build a new hospital in Haarlem-Zuid by 2033 to consolidate clinical and emergency care services. Consequently, the Hoofddorp branch will be repurposed into a day hospital for outpatient treatments and diagnostic services.

Mayor closes premises after discovery of illegal sex club

Mayor Jos Wienen of Haarlem has ordered a three-month closure of a building on the Baan after an illegal, unlicensed sex club was discovered operating there. Authorities identified signs of potential exploitation and noted that the site's frequent visitor traffic caused significant nuisance to the local neighborhood.