The Province of North Holland faces major challenges in the coming years. Houses need to be built, we want to recreate, and there must be space for nature and industry. If we want to implement all these plans, we face a 27% shortage of space.
Therefore, choices must be made. In recent months, residents have already been able to give their opinions through online surveys and community meetings.
On Tuesday, December 2, residents of Wieringerwerf engaged in a conversation with the province about these challenges. Deputy Anouk Gielen was also present. She looked back on the meeting positively: “I noticed that people are very proud and concerned about the landscape and livability. It is important that we continue to find each other to make the best choices for the future of North Holland together.”
A recurring theme during the community meeting was that residents of the Wieringermeer are attached to the flat landscape with wide views. They are proud of their beautiful polder and the business activity. They want to preserve this but also realize that choices must be made.
Ideal place
The first dilemma discussed was ‘Space for agriculture versus space for energy, housing, or businesses.’ Many farmers and bulb growers present emphasized the need to be careful with high-quality agricultural land. The polder is an ideal place for agriculture, and the soil in this area is very fertile. Vegetables are grown here for our food supply and for export.
To make agriculture more sustainable, space is also needed. At the same time, residents are concerned about livability and understand that houses need to be built. This also includes facilities such as shops, schools, and public transport. They want their children and grandchildren to be able to continue living here.
Good for the economy
Some are worried about the arrival of new data centers. They take up a lot of space and consume a lot of energy. Others note that data centers provide employment in the region and are therefore good for the local economy. According to attendees, many young people leave because there is little work in the Wieringermeer.
To create more space in the long term, participants suggest, for example, “draining the Wadden Sea” or “moving Schiphol to the sea.” This would free up new land for housing, recreation, and other plans.
Collaboration
The second dilemma – ‘Province governs with rules versus freedom for businesses’ – also sparked lively discussion, opinions, and ideas. According to participants, it is essential to involve businesses in policy, for example regarding nitrogen or CO2 emissions. “It would be better to work with goals instead of rules,” says one participant. “Rules often conflict with reality. That is why collaboration is important.”
According to some participants, the government can set goals together with businesses and establish frameworks. Entrepreneurs often know what is feasible or how measures work in practice. It is then important to give entrepreneurs responsibility and trust to achieve these goals. “If we have the same goal in mind, we will get there together.” Because national politics change quickly, customization is important according to participants. Everyone benefits from clarity. That also provides room for investment and innovation.
Clean water
The third dilemma also involved rules. The topic was: ‘Maximum protection of water quality versus more space for businesses.’ During the meeting, it was emphasized that clean water is vital for all of us. The province can steer this with rules for businesses. Residents agree that our water must be maximally protected. They also believe that filtering afterward is pointless. “Clean water is important for nature and agriculture,” says one participant. “Therefore, pollution must be tackled at the source, both for businesses and consumers.”
