Groningen wants to make an exception for Rammstein – politicians and local residents are not enthusiastic.
On July 6th and 7th, 2023, Rammstein will perform at the Stadspark in Groningen. However, since the shows are unlikely to be able to comply with the noise limits set by the Dutch municipality, there are discussions in advance – because a one-time exception is to be made for Rammstein.
Rammstein: Groningen turns a blind eye to the volume
At peak times, 103 instead of the permitted 100 decibels are expected. However, the city of Groningen wants to generously ignore the fact that the two shows could be louder than allowed. “We made the decision carefully and also looked at what is happening in the rest of the country with major events,” explained City Councilor Manouska Molema according to Dutch media. The exception is to prevent Rammstein from moving the shows to another location that agrees with the volume. There is an international competition for certain major events: “Top acts actually have a choice. We have decided for major events in the Stadspark. When there are more people in the field, different noise standards are required.”
The community’s current noise protection standards were not designed for major events anyway, Molema continued. They are mainly designed for activities with fewer people. 110,000 spectators are expected for the two Rammstein shows. Coalition parties in the city council, on the other hand, were shocked by the decision. “We are not enthusiastic about it,” said council member Floor Mertens. Janette Bosma from the Coalition Party for the Animals even emphasizes: “We are shocked by this decision”. and the residents’ association Stadspark Naturally does not want to simply accept the decision. “We just heard it and are thinking about the next steps,” the association said.