Woerden introduces 3-month assembly ban to tackle youth nuisance in Wagenstraat area
Residents of Woerden’s Wagenstraat and Rijnstraat will face new restrictions from March 20 as the mayor imposes a temporary assembly ban to curb persistent youth nuisance. The measure targets groups causing disturbances, with fines for violations, while the city works on long-term solutions.
| Key Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Area Affected | Wagenstraat, Rijnstraat, and surrounding streets (see map for exact boundaries) |
| Duration | March 20, 2026 – June 20, 2026 (24/7) |
| Target Group | Groups of 3+ people aged ≤27 causing nuisance |
| Penalty for Violation | Fines imposed by police |
| Municipal Contact | 14 0348 (for residents and stakeholders) |
| Mayor’s Statement | Focus on restoring safety and livability while seeking structural solutions |
The municipality of Woerden is responsible for maintaining public order and safety within its jurisdiction, working closely with law enforcement and community stakeholders. This assembly ban is a temporary regulatory measure under the municipality’s authority to address local disturbances and protect residents’ quality of life.
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Read the full translated article below
Temporary assembly ban around Wagenstraat
The mayor of Woerden has decided to impose an assembly ban on Wagenstraat, Rijnstraat, and surrounding streets starting March 20, 2026. The measure will be in effect for a period of three months and aims to reduce persistent youth nuisance in the area.
Increased nuisance in the neighborhood
Youth nuisance is increasing in various parts of the Netherlands, and Woerden is no exception. Wagenstraat and Rijnstraat stand out as locations where residents consistently experience nuisance. Despite efforts by the police, enforcement, and discussions with the young people and organizations involved, reports continue to come in.
Why this measure?
The municipality of Woerden is strongly committed to safety and prevention, in close collaboration with residents, entrepreneurs, and young people. In recent months, several alternative activities and locations have been offered, but these have not yet led to a solution that works for all parties involved. Therefore, a temporary, targeted measure has been chosen to restore safety and livability in the neighborhood.
Mayor Monique Bonsen: “We want everyone to feel safe in their own neighborhood. Over the past period, we have tried many things in consultation with young people, youth work, and residents. Unfortunately, this has not yet led to sufficient improvement. With this temporary assembly ban, we are intervening to restore peace while continuing to work on structural solutions.”
What does the ban entail?
- The assembly ban applies to groups of three or more people aged up to and including 27 who cause nuisance through their behavior.
- The ban is in effect 24 hours a day, from March 20, 2026, at 07:00 until June 20, 2026, at 07:00.
- The designated area includes the streets outlined in green on the attached map.
- Violations may result in a fine imposed by the police.
Normal social activities remain permitted, as long as no nuisance is caused.
Municipality remains in dialogue
The municipality of Woerden emphasizes that it remains open to dialogue with young people, residents, and other stakeholders. Work is underway on sustainable and realistic solutions to structurally improve livability in the neighborhood. Residents can contact the municipality via 14 0348.