A maximum of two coffee shops may be established in the municipality of Hoogeveen. A majority in the municipal council voted in favor of this yesterday.
The intention was actually that there would be a maximum of one coffee shop, but to prevent a monopoly position, a maximum of two coffee shops was chosen. These may come in the center of Hoogeveen or in Hollandscheveld. The Christian parties (CDA, Christian Union and SGP) don’t like it and came up with a ‘motion of lamentation’, but ultimately withdrew it. Forum for Democracy is also against the arrival of a coffee shop.
“You can allow a coffee shop, but it is necessary to have your prevention and enforcement policy in order,” responds PvdA member Lisa Schonewille. That is why her party, together with SP, VVD, D66, Municipal Interests and CDA, has come up with the proposal to provide information at schools, among other things, and that enforcement should ensure that minors are not given the opportunity to buy drugs.
After two years there will be an evaluation with local residents, among others.