Ahhh Amsterdam, beautiful canals, cosy interiors — and tacky tourist shops. The municipality has put their foot down. With a new measure, they hope to gradually eradicate these eyesores.
We’ve all experienced it: you’re walking through Amsterdam’s central streets, admiring the city’s old charm, when BAM, your eyes fall on a glaringly green or pink store that smells like sweat, cannabis and sugar all at once.
These are often Nutella stores selling some monstrosity of a crepe or souvenir shops selling absolutely anything that can fit three X’s or a cannabis leaf on it.
READ MORE | Why is there XXX on Amsterdam’s flag? Hint: it’s not what you think
However, under a new regulation, once these stores close down, the buildings can not reopen with the purpose of being a “tourist shop.”
The Council of State has made their decision
It’s official. The Council of State (the highest court in the Netherlands) has ruled today in favour of this new regulation, Het Parool reports.
As part of this plan, the city hopes to improve the diversity of retail on offer in Amsterdam’s city centre.
Not a fan of this new plan? Too bad! The ruling is final, nothing can stop the municipality of Amsterdam now.
Want the latest Dutch news to come zooming through the internet to your inbox? Dat kan! Subscribe to DutchReview’s weekly roundup 📮