The armed forces need additional space to grow. Therefore, Defence is investigating several locations across the Netherlands. However, a careful completion of the research requires more time. The Draft National Policy Vision Space for Defence will therefore be published at the end of May instead of the previously communicated first quarter of this year. Secretary of State Gijs Tuinman informs the House today.

The policy document includes the preferred locations that Defence has in mind. However, further in-depth research is still needed. This is due to additional questions and information gathered from administrative consultations and information meetings across the country.

“I want to continue to guarantee the thoroughness of the NPRD process. Unfortunately, this requires more time. Therefore, I have no choice but to adjust the schedule and announce the provisional preferred locations at the end of May. I understand that people will remain uncertain for longer, but this is necessary for a careful process,” said Secretary of State Tuinman.

The fact that the Draft National Policy Vision will now be published at the end of May has no consequences for the rest of the schedule. Before the summer vacation, anyone who wishes can submit a response. The cabinet can still establish the final policy vision by the end of this year.