rssFeb 12, 2026, 14:39

Criticism of fat bike ban plans: Certain group of young people being sidelined

Amsterdam city council members from the GroenLinks and PvdA parties have criticized a proposed ban on fatbikes in crowded areas like the Vondelpark, citing concerns over the potential stigmatization of youth and the plan's legal feasibility. Transport Alderman Melanie van der Horst defended the measure as a necessary safety step to combat rising accident rates and high speeds, though she acknowledged that national legislation would be preferable. The proposal is scheduled for a formal debate and vote by the city council next week.

Politics Lifestyle Amsterdam Netherlands

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Everything about King's Day: Flea markets, public transport tips, and more news from this week

Amsterdam is preparing for King's Day with traditional flea markets and city-wide celebrations. This week's update offers practical advice, including public transport tips, to help residents and visitors navigate the Dutch national holiday.

Provincial councillor leaves party and remains absent for months

North Holland provincial representative Maik de Weerdt has been absent from legislative meetings for months since leaving the Volt party to form his own faction in December 2025. Despite missing approximately 15 meetings at the Provincial House in Haarlem, he has continued to receive his monthly allowance of roughly 2,250 euros. De Weerdt recently responded to the controversy by stating he intends to return to his duties next month.

The Greenhouse | Facts once again seem to matter little in the climate debate

Climate reporter Jeroen Kraan discusses how factual education about climate change fails to significantly shift public opinion. He highlights that even a crash course on the subject does not alter perspectives, presenting a discouraging finding for climate journalists in the Netherlands.

From broken frame to trust: how an e-bike saga ended well

Ron Poppen experienced a spontaneous frame break on his e-bike, later discovering a recall campaign he had not been notified about. He shared his story with the 'Klasse' column to describe how the situation was eventually resolved and his trust was restored.

Tinka parks in Hoofddorp, pays, and is shocked by the costs

A woman named Tinka received financial compensation after filing a formal complaint regarding unexpectedly high parking fees in Hoofddorp. Her experience highlights how a well-structured complaint can lead to a positive financial resolution for consumers.