Moerdijk to the House of Representatives: Make a decision and take good care of residents and business owners
The national government must honor the agreements reached regarding a comprehensive and people-centered approach to the national project planned for Moerdijk. Alderman Danny Dingemans emphasized this on behalf of the municipal executive during today’s roundtable discussion on the village of Moerdijk in the House of Representatives.
During the roundtable discussion, Dingemans emphasized that the debate has a profound impact at the local level. Further delays in decision-making are therefore unjustifiable. The national government was scheduled to make a decision in December 2025 regarding the direction of the expansion of the port and industrial area (Powerport). That decision was then postponed until June 2026.
“Delay is not a sign of due diligence, but rather a prolongation of uncertainty,” Dingemans states. “The energy projects are moving forward, procedures are continuing, and the pressure on the environment is increasing. Without a decision, residents, business owners, and farmers remain in a state of uncertainty. Our call to the national government is therefore: honor your commitments and make a decision in June.”
Give first, then take
Dingemans’ urgent appeal to the cabinet and the House of Representatives was clear: “Provide clarity, provide certainty, and provide a sense of hope. Ensure full compensation for everyone affected. Adopt a humane approach and invest in a better future for all residents.” Dingemans concluded his remarks with a clear message to the national government: “Moerdijk is taking responsibility for a national challenge. We expect the national government to take responsibility for the local consequences. Give first, then take.”
The Powerport national initiative calls for a decision
Moerdijk is designated in the Spatial Planning Policy Document as a seaport of national importance and plays a key role in the energy transition, making industry more sustainable, and ensuring the Netherlands’ strategic autonomy. Two areas are under consideration for Powerport: east and southeast of the current Moerdijk port and industrial area. The city council concluded that the southeastern direction is not an acceptable option and that only the eastern direction allows for a sustainable separation between industry and residential areas. This means that the village of Moerdijk will eventually have to relocate, but it does provide structural clarity—provided that strict preconditions are met.