The Village of Moerdijk Presents Its Quality-of-Life Vision
The village of Moerdijk is under pressure. This has a major impact on its quality of life. That is why a quality-of-life survey was conducted over the past few months. More than 500 residents participated. On October 14, the results of the survey will be presented to residents and the municipality. Then it will become clear what the village and its residents need to be happy where they live.
Right next to the village, a massive logistics park is currently being built. In addition, the national government has plans to expand the energy infrastructure around the village, including high-voltage substations, 380 kV transmission lines, and the onshore connection for electricity from offshore wind farms, including a converter station. In addition, there are initiatives to provide housing for migrant workers and truck parking. Space is also needed to make industry more sustainable, which will result in increased freight transport by road and rail. Finally, the area is being considered for a district heating network and geothermal energy.
A Village Under Pressure
All of this takes up an incredible amount of space—space that simply isn’t available. The government must therefore make some choices. The developments described cover a very large area. The exact size is not yet known. There is talk of at least 180 hectares, but this could rise to more than 1,000 hectares (approximately 1,300 soccer fields). If the plans go ahead, this will also mean additional nuisances such as odor, noise, visual impact, vibrations, and air quality issues. The village is therefore under pressure.
Extensive research
Where is the line drawn for residents? How can the village remain a pleasant place to live? Extensive research has been conducted on this topic over the past few months. The initiative for this came from the village itself. A group of residents, the Moerdijk Village Quality of Life Core Group, received support from the municipality and a consulting firm. Through various channels and engaging activities—such as a village barbecue, a WhatsApp group, social media, walk-in consultation hours, and response cards distributed door-to-door—the opinions of some 500 residents from virtually every age group were gathered.
Presentation on October 14
On Monday, October 14, the research findings will be presented to residents and municipal officials at MFC De Ankerkuil in Moerdijk. All interested parties are welcome. The program is as follows:
- 7:00 p.m.: Doors open; 7:30 p.m.: Event begins
- Welcome, Background, and Explanation of the Process
- Panel discussion with residents on the importance of quality of life
- Presentation of Key Conclusions from the Vision Statement
- Official Presentation of Residents’ Vision to the Municipality and Province
- A Look Ahead at the Next Steps Based on This Vision
- Closing ceremony and informal discussion over drinks in the foyer
Source: Moerdijk Quality of Life Core Group