Five Questions About the Future of the Village of Moerdijk
On December 1, the national government, the province, and the municipality of Moerdijk plan to make a decision regarding Powerport. This could mean that the village of Moerdijk will disappear in about 10 years. That would be a massive change. In this article, we list the five most frequently asked questions.
Powerport is about the necessary expansion of the port and industrial area. Powerport is important for the future of the Netherlands so that we have enough electricity for homes and businesses, gain additional space for sustainable companies, and become less dependent on other countries. Two potential directions for the expansion are being considered: eastward or southeastward from the port area. According to the mayor and aldermen, in the long term, only an expansion to the east offers a viable future for the municipality. That is the area between the Hollandsch Diep, the Roode Vaart, the A17, and the railroad tracks.
How final is this?
No decision has been made yet. On December 1, the national government, the province, and the municipality plan to reach a decision in principle regarding the chosen direction and the associated conditions. The city council will discuss the municipality’s input for this decision on November 19.
What arrangements are in place for residents?
If it is decided on December 1 that the village will eventually be demolished, a new arrangement will be put in place. This will apply not only to homeowners, but also to tenants and business owners, allowing them to continue their lives elsewhere. Until that arrangement is in place, the Moerdijk Arrangement applies: homes can be sold to the municipality for 95% of their value.
How long will it take for the village to disappear?
If the national government, the province, and the municipality decide on December 1 that Powerport will be built on the site of the village of Moerdijk, it will still take years. First, an area program will be developed (2–3 years), followed by an amendment to the environmental plan. The plans will likely be finalized around 2035. As usual, anyone can provide feedback and file objections during this process. The municipal executive is committed to doing everything possible to ensure that residents can continue living there for as long as possible. That is why the municipality continues to invest in the quality of life in the area.
How does the municipality ensure that the village remains a livable place?
The municipal council is committed to doing whatever it takes to keep the village a great place to live. We’ll work with the residents to determine exactly what that means.
According to the municipality of Moerdijk, what needs to be arranged?
The municipality will only cooperate if these agreements take effect on December 1:
- Fair Compensation
Residents and business owners who are directly affected will receive prompt clarity and fair compensation for the damages they suffer. The process must be thorough and humane. - Funding for the “
” area: A regional fund is being established. These funds will be used to improve quality of life, provide public services, support education, and promote nature and agriculture. Residents and business owners will have a say in how the funds are spent. - Long-term collaboration
The national government, the province, and the municipality must work together effectively and honor their commitments. An organization will be established to ensure that plans and investments are carried out. Residents and businesses will be involved in the decision-making process.
Would you like to know more? You can find more frequently asked questions and answers on our website. Click here to read more: Powerport Frequently Asked Questions | Municipality of Moerdijk