The arrival of the asylum seekers center in Vlaardingen has been postponed for six months due to the presence of bats on the site.
The opening of the asylum seekers center in Vlaardingen has been postponed for at least six months due to the possibility of bats on the site. An environmental study of plants and animals, commissioned by the municipality, raised concerns about the habitat of these animals, causing delays in the project timeline.
Currently, the site is located on an empty farm. The municipality had planned to demolish the farm to make way for the construction of a new asylum seeker center. However, the presence of bats means that further research is necessary before demolition can begin. The municipality must also ensure that new roosting places for the bats are provided before any construction starts.
As a result of these unexpected delays, the asylum seeker center will not be ready by the previously set date of the end of 2026. It is now expected that the center will open in the summer of 2027, after the completion of environmental assessments and necessary preparations.
During a public media meeting held in September, there was some confusion among residents regarding the fate of the farm. Some people believed that the building was a protected landmark. However, municipal records confirm that the farm is not a protected landmark at the national or local level, meaning there are no legal restrictions preventing its demolition.
Despite the delay, the municipality will continue working on the necessary research and preparations to ensure that the project can proceed without impacting local wildlife. The asylum seeker center is expected to provide housing needed by refugees and asylum seekers in the area once completed.