Zoeterwoude explores new site for football cage after noise complaints
Residents and children in Zoeterwoude face uncertainty as the municipality investigates relocating a football cage due to persistent noise complaints. A decision on a new location near Het Avontuur primary school is expected before summer 2026.
| Key Data Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Location | Klaproosweg, Zoeterwoude |
| New Proposed Location | Near primary school Het Avontuur |
| Enforcement Request | Rejected; cage remains closed |
| Noise Reduction Measures | Ventilation grilles, sound-dampening nets, smaller goals, shrub planting |
| Timeline for Decision | Before summer vacation 2026 |
| Municipality Involvement | Zoeterwoude municipal executive |
The municipality of Zoeterwoude is responsible for balancing the needs of local youth for sports facilities with the quality of life for residents. This includes enforcing regulations to minimize noise nuisance while ensuring recreational spaces remain accessible.
Read the full translated article below
New location for football cage under investigation
On Tuesday, March 31, the municipal executive of the municipality of Zoeterwoude made a decision regarding the football cage on Klaproosweg in Zoeterwoude. The executive has decided to investigate a new location in the immediate vicinity of primary school Het Avontuur.
Enforcement request
The enforcement request, which called for the closure of the football cage, has been rejected. The reason for this is that the cage is already closed, meaning there is no imminent violation. However, it is currently not possible to reopen the football cage, as doing so would not meet the requirements for a good living environment. If the municipality were to reopen the cage, it would again be in violation.
History
We understand that this decision may come as a disappointment to residents and children in Zoeterwoude. The issue has been a concern for a broad group of residents. Since 2024, the municipality has been seeking a solution that satisfies all stakeholders. As a municipality, we have both the duty to provide young people with good sports, exercise, and play facilities, and the duty to ensure a good living environment. Over the years, various measures have been taken to reduce the nuisance.
What have we already done?
In June 2024, we informed residents about the noise nuisance. Since then, we have taken the following steps: • We installed special ventilation grilles at homes to block noise. • We placed a net on the ball catcher to dampen the sound. We also reinforced the fences to reduce vibrations. • We replaced the goals with smaller ones to make the game quieter. • Our community enforcement officers monitored compliance with opening hours (09:00 - 21:00) and behavioral rules. • We took action against individuals who behaved inappropriately. • We initiated a mediation process. • We planted additional shrubs.
Despite these efforts, the noise remains too loud for the neighborhood. To avoid further delay in finding a solution, we have decided to investigate an alternative location.
New location
Over the past few months, we have carefully weighed all possible scenarios, including those suggested through a petition and various submitted views. Each scenario was evaluated based on spatial integration, legal feasibility, noise nuisance, and financial implications. This thorough process has identified relocating the football cage to the immediate vicinity of primary school Het Avontuur as the best option. We will now further develop this scenario, involving the school and nearby residents. We aim to provide a definitive answer before the summer vacation of 2026 as to whether this alternative can be implemented in the school’s vicinity.
If relocation proves feasible, we will enter into discussions with nearby residents about temporarily reopening the cage at its current location. We will also assess the needs in the neighborhood—with the help of a neighborhood coach—to work on restoring good relations among residents.
Playing in Zoeterwoude
The municipal executive emphasizes the importance of sports, exercise, and play facilities for the youth of Zoeterwoude and aims to provide a suitable football spot as soon as possible. In addition to investigating the new location for the football cage, the play facilities in Zoeterwoude will soon be updated in consultation with young people.