Brabant must be unlocked and it must be possible to rebuild as soon as possible. This is the opinion of employers’ organization VNO-NCW Brabant-Zeeland. According to the employers, the construction freeze is bad for the economy and is also counterproductive. “New construction actually benefits nature”, according to the organization.
In a letter to the Brabant formateur Pieter Verhoeve, the employers call for an immediate end to the construction freeze. “By permitting new construction, you actually ensure sustainability,” explains chairman Eric Van Schagen. “Because the industry is making a move towards sustainability with every new development, thereby reducing CO2 and nitrogen oxide emissions.”
In March, the province decided to no longer grant building permits in order to spare nature. A study showed that the quality of 15 Natura 2000 areas had deteriorated compared to 2015. The province’s decision had major consequences. Since then, no permits have been granted for projects in the field of infrastructure, agriculture, industry, housing, but also projects to improve sustainability.
According to Schagen, the construction freeze hinders the energy transition, which should counteract the emission of harmful substances. “Strengthening networks, building alternative energy supplies, everything is subject to enormous delays or comes to a standstill. After all, building permits are required for all these activities.”
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