rssMar 12, 2026, 11:00

'Petrified' Haarlem named most future-proof municipality

Haarlem has been named the most future-proof municipality in the Netherlands by the 'Toekomstmeter' study, receiving a score of 9.8 out of 10 for its integrated climate policies. The city was recognized for initiatives such as circular procurement, social programs to combat energy poverty, and replacing asphalt with green spaces. Despite its dense urban environment, Haarlem is prioritizing sustainable transport and urban greening to ensure long-term livability.

Politics Haarlem Netherlands

Read original ↗

Preparations for paid parking in Ter Kleefkwartier begin

Starting March 1, 2027, paid parking will be implemented across the entire Ter Kleefkwartier neighborhood in Haarlem to manage high parking demand. The initiative is part of a broader city council plan to expand parking zones and build four new garages to improve street safety and accessibility.

Apply for a new passport on time and avoid long waits

Residents of Amsterdam and Weesp are advised to renew their passports and ID cards early, as more than 120,000 documents will expire this year. Applying in advance will help avoid long waiting times for new travel documents.

Gaming Authority intervenes: Gambling sites scrap own-goal bets over match-fixing risk

Following an intervention by the Dutch Gaming Authority (Ksa), two online gambling sites have removed betting options on own goals. The regulator prohibited these types of bets due to their high susceptibility to match-fixing and manipulation.

Heemstede gains six decorated residents and one Knight

Mayor Falgun Binnendijk presented seven royal honors to residents of Heemstede during the annual King's Day decorations ceremony on Friday. Six individuals were decorated for their contributions to society, while one resident was specifically appointed as a Knight.

Information sessions for residents on better waste separation at Beverwijk City Hall. ‘Why does it have to change again?’

Residents of Beverwijk attended information sessions at the city hall to discuss upcoming changes to local waste separation policies. The meetings addressed community concerns regarding the introduction of new waste bins, underground containers, and potential cost increases.