Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Hollandse Duinen Named Netherlands’ 22nd National Park

The designation unlocks funding through 2030 for joint management projects.

Overview

  • Hollandse Duinen, designated Tuesday by Minister Jaimi van Essen, spans more than 18,000 hectares from Hoek van Holland to Hillegom.
  • The new status makes the park eligible for a national €30 million fund through 2030 focused on collaboration among land managers.
  • Project director Georgette Leltz said permitting will not tighten under the label and the money will support coordination rather than routine maintenance.
  • Provincial leader Arno Bonte plans to steer visitors to recreation zones and set aside quieter areas for wildlife in the crowded Zuid-Holland region.
  • Open questions remain about funding after 2030 and how rising visitor pressure will be managed in a park that borders major cities.