Public authorities begin implementing the Veluwe Action Plan

Jaimi van Essen (Minister for LVVN): “The Veluwe is a unique area facing major challenges, but one that also boasts a great deal of regional drive. A lot is already happening here, and people have been working hard on this approach for some time now. For me, it is important that we pool that energy and press ahead. Ultimately, it is about restoring nature, so that, step by step, we can once again create scope for granting planning permission. In this way, we will make progress not only in the Veluwe, but throughout the Netherlands.”

From agreements to implementation

The challenges facing the Veluwe are considerable. Nature is under pressure, nitrogen levels are too high in many places, and water and soil quality also need to be improved. That is why the national government, the province, the water boards and the local authorities will be working together over the next ten years on an area-specific approach to improve the quality of nature, water and the living environment. Implementation will take place in phases, with results and new insights being incorporated as we go along.

Successful implementation requires the involvement of the people who live, work and run businesses in and around the Veluwe. That is why the authorities are working together with residents, farmers, business owners and community organisations. This will ensure that measures are better tailored to the realities on the ground and that they can count on support within the region.

Councillor Jarin van der Zande: “We face a major challenge in and around the Veluwe: restoring nature, reducing nitrogen emissions and ensuring that people can continue to live, work and run businesses here. This directly affects residents, farmers and business owners. That is why, in Apeldoorn, we are opting for an approach that starts in the area itself, such as the GEUS area-based approach. We know the villages, the people and the challenges at play here. It is precisely by working together and being honest about what is needed that we can develop solutions that are both achievable and future-proof. Stagnation helps no one. It is time to make choices, offer prospects and take steps together towards a strong natural environment and a vibrant rural area.”

300 million euros for initial measures

To enable the first phase of the initiative, the central government is making 300 million euros available. This budget will allow local authorities, businesses and other stakeholders to get started straight away.

The funds will be used, amongst other things, to restore stream valleys and water systems, improve soil and the natural environment, implement measures in buffer zones around nature reserves, and support agricultural entrepreneurs who wish to become more sustainable, innovate, switch to more extensive farming methods, or voluntarily relocate or cease operations. There will also be opportunities for joint area plans drawn up by groups of farmers.

A significant proportion of the budget is earmarked for agriculture. The aim is to reduce emissions whilst at the same time offering prospects for future-proof agricultural businesses.

A vision for nature and the economy

This approach requires the involvement of all sectors in the area. The authorities concerned are aware that the measures may have an impact on residents and businesses, particularly in the agricultural sector.

That is why the authorities are focusing on an approach that both strengthens the natural environment and facilitates economic development. Reducing nitrogen pressure creates more scope for the granting of planning permission. This is necessary for farmers, housing construction, making businesses more sustainable, and other societal challenges.

The Veluwe Approach therefore focuses on a future in which the Veluwe remains an attractive place to live, work, do business and enjoy leisure activities, with a thriving natural environment and a future-proof economy.

More information

Further information on the Veluwe Approach can be found on the Gelderland provincial government’s website: www.gelderland.nl/aanpak-veluwe.