Four North Holland municipalities explore merger after local elections
Residents of Bergen, Uitgeest, Castricum, and Heiloo may soon see their municipalities merge into one. A joint exploratory group is assessing the feasibility, with substantive talks set to begin after the upcoming local elections.
| Key Data Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Municipalities Involved | Bergen, Uitgeest, Castricum, Heiloo |
| Exploratory Group Members | Four councillors from each municipality |
| Next Steps | External bureau to guide process, starting early April 2026 |
| Timeline | Substantive discussions to begin post-local elections |
| Goal | Determine feasibility of forming a single new municipality |
Municipal councils in the Netherlands play a crucial role in local governance, including spatial planning, social services, and infrastructure. This exploratory process is a standard procedure to assess whether a merger could improve administrative efficiency and service delivery for residents.
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Read the full translated article below
Municipal councils of BUCH municipalities continue joint exploration of administrative future
On February 17 and March 4, 2026, the exploratory group on the administrative future of the municipal councils of Bergen, Uitgeest, Castricum, and Heiloo convened. After the municipal elections, this group will engage in discussions to determine whether there is sufficient basis to form a single new municipality in the future. The group consists of four councillors from each municipality.
Guidance
Before substantive discussions can begin, several practical matters must first be agreed upon and arranged. The exploratory group intends to enlist the assistance of an external bureau. This bureau will guide and support the process. During the meetings on February 17 and March 4, 2026, the exploratory group discussed its expectations regarding 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.