Although Haarlem-Noord is on average a quiet and prosperous district, some neighborhoods have a history of nuisance caused by loitering youth. Recently, Mayor Wienen issued an area ban to five young people aged 14 to 16: they are no longer allowed to appear in the Vogelenwijk and Indische Wijk. Young people have been causing noise and destruction on and around Roerdompplein for some time now.
Least prosperous
Delftwijk, which according to figures from the municipality is the least prosperous part of the North, has had a reputation for nuisance for several decades. Yet there have been few escalations on the streets here in recent years, several residents confirm, despite numerous other social problems. This is partly thanks to the neighborhood parents, who faithfully take their evening walks through the neighborhood on a voluntary basis.
The secret? “Getting in touch,” says Ismail. “And then I mean: real contact. Seeing the young people as equals and just asking how things are going. That is different from most police officers or enforcers, who quickly threaten with a fine. We know most of the people here. And most people know us. Then you build a different kind of relationship.”
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