Government Considers Scenario to Preserve the Village of Moerdijk Feasible
The government considers the new scenario for the Moerdijk Powerport region to be feasible, after reassessing how much space is needed. The plan calls for a smaller expansion of the port and industrial area, allowing the village of Moerdijk to remain intact. A final decision has not yet been made.
The national government estimates that approximately 200 hectares of net space will be needed for energy and industry in the Moerdijk area. This space will be sought on the existing port grounds, around Krukweg, and on the land already reserved near the Roode Vaart. For Geertruidenberg and Drimmelen, the objectives and the required space remain the same.
What isn't in Moerdijk?
The government is not seeking additional space in Moerdijk for new large-scale activities related to the reuse of raw materials and products. These activities must take place at other locations in the Netherlands. The government also does not want a major expansion of the port. According to the government, less space is needed for energy supply and industry than previously thought.
What will actually be built in Moerdijk?
The national government wants to ensure that Moerdijk has space for energy projects through 2050. The national government also believes that industry in Moerdijk should be given the opportunity to become more sustainable. Finally, Moerdijk must remain a hub for sustainable chemistry, key raw materials, and metals. These plans will be included in the final Spatial Planning Policy Document, which is scheduled to be published in mid-November 2026.
Detailed Explanation
Before a final decision is made, it must be clear whether residents can continue to live comfortably in the area and whether businesses can operate sustainably and remain viable. The national government, the province of North Brabant, and the municipality of Moerdijk are working together to further develop this plan. In doing so, they are also taking into account nature, water, agricultural land, the economy, surrounding villages, and the environment. An agreement to this effect was reached during the administrative consultation on November 11.
The Moerdijk Scheme and Support for the Region
The Moerdijk Scheme will continue through 2029 at the very least. Until then, the current conditions will apply, with entitlement to 100% of the assessed and indexed home value. The government is also making a one-time allocation of 5 million euros available to support the area, for example in the social sphere. In addition, plans are being developed to determine how local and national governments can invest in the area’s quality of life and restore public trust. An investigation is also underway to determine whether and how it can be stipulated that the national government will not request new land in the area until 2050.
Read here the letter from the State Secretary for Climate and Green Growth to the House of Representatives