Safety crackdown in Beemster uncovers illegal housing and environmental risks
Residents of Beemster may face legal consequences after a surprise safety inspection revealed illegal housing, improper storage of hazardous materials, and fire safety violations. Authorities urge vigilance against criminal misuse of rural properties.
| Key Data | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Hobrederweg and Hobrederlaan, Beemster (Noord-Holland) |
| Date of Inspection | 31 March 2026 |
| Number of Addresses Visited | 23 |
| Violations Found | - Illegal housing (agricultural plots used for living) |
| - Illegal occupation (mismatch with BRP registration) | |
| - Improper storage of hazardous substances and gas cylinders | |
| - Fire safety issues (uninspected/unaccessible fire extinguishers) | |
| Collaborating Authorities | Municipality of Purmerend, Police, IJmond Environmental Service |
| Reporting Channels | Police (0900-8844), Meld Misdaad Anoniem (0800-7000), Municipal email |
The Municipality of Purmerend, in collaboration with law enforcement and environmental agencies, conducts safety inspections to combat illegal activities in rural areas. These efforts aim to protect residents and prevent criminal exploitation of properties, such as drug-related crimes or unauthorized housing.
Read the full translated article below
Comprehensive safety inspection of Hobrederweg and Hobrederlaan in Beemster
On Tuesday, 31 March 2026, an unannounced comprehensive safety inspection was conducted on Hobrederweg and Hobrederlaan in Beemster. A total of 23 addresses were visited. The inspection was a collaboration between the Municipality of Purmerend and various partners, including the police and the IJmond Environmental Service.
Violations
During the inspection, possible violations were identified at several addresses. Further investigation will be carried out at addresses where violations were found based on the environmental plan. This concerns the use of property in violation of its designated purpose, such as living on a plot designated for agricultural use. There was also one address where illegal occupation may have occurred. In this case, the actual living situation appears to differ from the registration in the Personal Records Database (BRP).
The IJmond Environmental Service also identified various minor environmental violations, including the storage of excessive quantities of hazardous substances and gas cylinders that were not properly secured. Appropriate action will be taken regarding these findings. Finally, advice was given on fire safety. For example, uninspected fire extinguishers or those located in inaccessible places were found at several locations.
Working together for a safe rural area
A sense of safety is essential for comfortable living and working. A safe rural area is an important theme within our municipality. We aim to prevent sheds, warehouses, and commercial buildings from being used by criminals. One of the measures we employ is safety inspections in rural areas. These inspections are unannounced to prevent illegal (undermining) activities from being halted before the inspection takes place. Additionally, so-called ‘drugs bucket’ discussions were held with farmers to raise awareness of the risks they face regarding undermining. The drugs bucket contains humorous warnings designed to help farmers and shed owners recognise the dangers of drug-related crime.
During this inspection, all owners and/or users cooperated fully, ensuring the inspection was conducted effectively.
Reporting
Do you suspect environmental crime, a cannabis cultivation site, or other illegal activities? You can report this to the police (0900-8844). Prefer to remain anonymous? You can do so via Meld Misdaad Anoniem. They are available seven days a week at 0800-7000. Anonymous reporting is also possible via the online form: www.meldmisdaadanoniem.nl You can also report suspicions or signs of fraud, illegal occupation, or other irregularities to the municipality. To do so, email