From 100 to 50: Hoorn reduces the number of accommodation places after opposition from residents
The city of Hoorn has decided to proceed with a modified plan to establish a temporary center for receiving refugees, agreeing to accommodate up to 50 asylum seekers only on Johannes Poststraat for a maximum of two years, as announced by local authorities on Friday.
This decision represents a significant reduction of the original plan, which aimed to provide 100 accommodation places. The authorities confirmed that the decision is final, following strong opposition from the municipal council and several local residents.
The city witnessed significant tension earlier this week when between 100 and 150 people protested in front of the Hoorn city hall against the proposed project. The demonstrators threw eggs at the building's windows, lit flares, and chanted anti-immigration slogans such as 'No to the asylum center, get rid of it!'. The protest coincided with a municipal council meeting, highlighting the deep division in the community over issues of immigration and housing.
After negotiations with the Central Agency for the Reception of Asylum Seekers (COA), the municipality reached a revised agreement. The center will be established in a former technical school building and will be subject to a number of strict conditions: the two-year operating period will not be extended, security will be provided around the clock, and residents must be independent and able to support themselves. The center will also include a balanced mix of individuals, families, and couples, reflecting the composition of asylum seekers across the Netherlands.
The authorities in Hoorn are also considering purchasing the property located at Koopvaarder 1 to maintain the current housing allocated for Ukrainian refugees. They will also study two additional potential sites for future housing projects aimed at 'specific target groups', including asylum seekers, those with residency status, and Ukrainians. The proposed third site has been excluded due to opposition from residents and the stance of the municipal council.