rssMar 28, 2026, 06:30

Master swindler or benefactor? The Canadian who promised Zandvoort the world

In 1981, Canadian businessman Michael Hordo arrived in Zandvoort with grand plans to transform the coastal town into a major tourist hub, including proposals for a theme park and international golf championships. Despite acquiring local hotels and spending lavishly, his projects ultimately failed due to financial mismanagement and mounting debt, eventually resulting in bankruptcy.

Politics Economy Business Culture Lifestyle Haarlem Netherlands

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

Westeinder campsite residents back in court: 'compensation too low'

Residents of Camping De Westeinder have returned to court in Haarlem to challenge the inadequate compensation offered by developer Kleen Estate for their forced relocation. Many residents rely on the park for permanent housing due to the local housing crisis and argue that the current offers are insufficient to cover relocation costs or provide alternative shelter.

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.

End to intake freeze at Levvel, youths with severe issues can once again be admitted in Amsterdam

Care organization Levvel has ended its intake freeze for Amsterdam youth following successful negotiations to secure more beds for those in need of severe residential care. While access has been restored, the municipality is demanding better coordination among providers and has initiated an independent financial audit of Levvel to ensure future stability.

Demand for affordable and sustainable funerals grows: 'Just put me in a cardboard box'

The funeral industry in the Netherlands is preparing for a shift in consumer demand toward more affordable and environmentally friendly burial options. As part of this transition, the sector is exploring sustainable alternatives such as alkaline hydrolysis, commonly known as resomation, to accommodate those seeking cheaper or greener end-of-life choices.

Cabinet plans to require homeowners to install hybrid heat pumps starting in 2029

Beginning in 2029, homeowners in the Netherlands must install hybrid heat pumps instead of gas-fired boilers when replacing their heating systems. The government plans to exempt apartments and monuments, while a decision on future subsidies for these costly installations is expected by 2027.