haarlemsdagbladJun 10, 2026, 04:46

Alderman Meerhoff and council block Heemstede emergency shelter: ‘Handling tasks side by side requires too much capacity’

The Heemstede municipal council has rejected a proposal to establish temporary emergency housing for asylum seekers at a former police station on Kerklaan. Alderman Sam Meerhoff stated that managing temporary sites alongside long-term housing projects would overstretch municipal capacity. The council decided to prioritize the development of a larger, permanent facility instead.

Politics Netherlands

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

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.

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.

Amsterdam explores ban on single-use packaging

Amsterdam is investigating a potential ban on single-use packaging as a measure to reduce street litter. This initiative aims to address waste management issues by exploring policies that encourage more sustainable consumption habits.

AI-generated texts appear in parliamentary debates: 'Comes at the expense of credibility'

Recent research reveals that 68 members of the Dutch parliament have used artificial intelligence to draft or refine texts for parliamentary debates. While some argue these tools simply aid efficiency, experts warn that over-reliance on AI could compromise the authenticity and public trust of elected officials.

Over two months of camera surveillance in and around Floradorp following unrest in the neighborhood

Amsterdam officials have installed surveillance cameras in the Floradorp neighborhood following recent violent confrontations between residents and police. The unrest, which involved street fires and thrown projectiles, follows a municipal ban on traditional bonfires due to safety concerns.