Amsterdam wants to get rid of these eyesores: here’s how

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.

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Feature Image:Depositphotos
Sarah O'Leary 🇮🇪
Sarah O'Leary 🇮🇪
Before becoming the Senior Editor of DutchReview, Sarah was a fresh-faced international looking to learn more about the Netherlands. Since moving here in 2017, Sarah has added a BA in English and Philosophy (Hons.), an MA in Literature (Hons.), and over three years of writing experience at DutchReview to her skillset. When Sarah isn't acting as a safety threat to herself and others (cycling), you can find her trying to sound witty while writing about some of the stickier topics such as mortgages and Dutch law.

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