Utrecht wants events to remain affordable and accessible next year. Therefore, the council proposes to postpone the increase of fees for event permits and to research alternatives. This way, we keep room for city and folk festivals, commemorations, and other activities that give Utrecht color. Meanwhile, we are looking at how we can create a sustainable system for the future.
Events are important for Utrecht. They bring people together, attract visitors, and make the city lively. However, organizing them also requires considerable effort from the municipality. The fees that organizers pay for a permit do not yet fully cover those costs. Therefore, it was previously decided to work towards cost-covering fees.
We now see that a significant increase, especially for large and freely accessible events, can have serious consequences. Sometimes the fees even threaten to exceed the subsidy that an event receives. This puts the accessibility and variety of our offerings under pressure.
With the proposal to temporarily limit the increase, we take the time to find a sustainable solution that allows for a diverse, inclusive, and affordable offering. We will continue to engage in discussions with organizers so that Utrecht remains a city where everyone can celebrate, commemorate, and enjoy together.
More in the council letter.
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