Four North Holland municipalities explore merging into one: what does this mean for residents?
Residents of Bergen, Uitgeest, Castricum, and Heiloo may soon see their municipalities merge. Local councils are exploring the feasibility of forming one new municipality, with discussions set to intensify after the upcoming elections.
| Key Data Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Municipalities Involved | Bergen, Uitgeest, Castricum, Heiloo (BUCH municipalities) |
| Number of Councillors | 4 from each municipality (total 16) |
| Next Steps | External bureau to guide process, starting early April 2026 |
| Goal | Determine feasibility of forming one new municipality |
| Current Phase | Preparing documents and communication strategy |
Municipal councils in the Netherlands are responsible for local governance, including spatial planning, social services, and infrastructure. In this case, the councils of Bergen, Uitgeest, Castricum, and Heiloo are exploring a merger to potentially improve efficiency and service delivery for their residents.
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Read the full translated article below
Municipal councils of BUCH municipalities continue joint exploration of administrative future
On 17 February and 4 March 2026, the exploratory group on the administrative future of the municipal councils of Bergen, Uitgeest, Castricum and Heiloo convened. Following the municipal elections, this group will engage in discussions to determine whether there is sufficient basis to form one new municipality together in the future. The group consists of 4 councillors from each municipality.
Guidance
Before substantive discussions can begin, several practical matters must first be agreed upon and arranged. The exploratory group wishes to enlist the help of an external bureau. This bureau will guide and support the process. During the meetings on 17 February and 4 March 2026, the exploratory group discussed what it expects from this process guidance.
Start early April
The municipalities are now jointly searching for a suitable bureau. They expect this bureau to begin work in early April. It was also discussed which documents can already be prepared and how communication will proceed. This will enable the exploratory group to quickly commence substantive discussions after the elections.