For the time being, no posts will be erected to close all entrances to the Hoofdstraat in Hoogeveen for loading and unloading traffic. They were supposed to be put into use from February, but there are again delays. The technology that ensures that emergency services can reach the center at all times is not yet available.
The municipality of Hoogeveen wrote this on its Facebook page. It is not the first time that there has been a delay with the posts. They were installed last year and were expected to be put into use in November. The right policy and connection to the power grid were lacking at the time.
According to the municipality, the posts should put an end to nuisance caused by loading and unloading (freight) traffic. It should also become safer for cyclists.
The problems were previously exposed in 2022. The CDA, Municipal Interests and the VVD received complaints from local residents that unsafe and irresponsible situations occur in the center on shopping days.
It is not only the supply of stores that has been causing problems for a long time. The arrival and departure of parcel services during the day also causes nuisance, according to local residents. The council has previously indicated that large vehicles cause damage in the center. Therefore, the pedestrian area was cleared of traffic. The posts are an addition to this.
Supplies to the shops in the city center should therefore be done as much as possible via the rear of the Hoofdstraat. Residents and entrepreneurs who need to be in the Hoofdstraat can apply for an occasional or permanent exemption. Emergency services always have access to Hoofdstraat.