A new chapter in the now infamous discussion about the ‘Balkweiterhoek’ in Zwaagdijk-West. The plan to house 250 to 300 status holders and emergency seekers in 120 flexible homes has now been definitively cancelled. The village is pleased that the course has changed. “We were listened to.”
The working group ‘BWH 76/76A’, consisting of involved residents, confirmed this to NH. The unexpected decision follows a visit by deputy Jelle Beemsterboer to Zwaagdijk-West last Thursday, where he spoke – behind closed doors – with councilor Jeroen Broeders of the municipality of Medemblik and the village.
According to the village council, the facilities and quality of life in the village are under pressure. “The limit has been reached, we hope that the province will realize it,” argued resident Stephan Dekker last month at the provincial government building in Haarlem. And that realization seems to be coming, now that the feasibility study has finally been completed. It is a striking decision by the province, after the plan still considered feasible in ‘many areas’.
‘Listened to us’
The village is pleased that the course has changed. “We were listened to. That’s how democracy works,” says Giel Nijpels, who was also present. “It was an open and pleasant conversation. We were able to convince them that the plan that is now on the table is not adequate enough. And we are happy with that.” And that means back to the drawing board. The village council will now consider at its own pace what they do want at the ‘Balkweiterhoek’ location and whether it is at all possible. “We can now participate in discussions from the start.”
Also the local party Hart voor Medemblik, one of the critics, is happy with the outcome. “We are pleased that the residents have finally been listened to. And especially that there is now clarity for them,” says Tjeu Berlin.
The province could not be reached for comment.