Amsterdam to combat ‘nuisance tourism’ with new restrictions

Amsterdam to combat ‘nuisance tourism’ with new restrictions

Amsterdam is looking to curb the sale of cannabis on weekends to reduce instances of ‘nuisance tourism’ across its red-light district.

There’s also been talks of limiting stag parties and shutting down brothels in the Dutch capital.

The moves are taking place in a bid to strengthen the city’s reputation as a cultural destination and remove its rowdy character. Travellers seen to cause the most havoc are Brits, with many of Amsterdam’s 880,000 residents getting annoyed by their antics.

The new plans are set be enforced with a ‘stay away’ campaign that will be launched next year. The campaign aims to give control of the city back to its locals.

Bars and clubs would have restricted opening hours under these plans, and have to close by 2am. There would also be stricter limits for window prostitution and brothels in the red-light district.

The iconic Amsterdam coffee shops are also under fire, with smoking and drinking becoming outlawed in some parts of the city.

According to Metro, the measures could also lead to a ban on selling cannabis during the weekend.

Amsterdam is also looking to tighten rules on Airbnb’s and short-term rentals. The city wants these houses turned into homes for Amsterdam residents and a tourist tax could be introduced for when the city is at its busiest.

“If we love the city, we have to act now,” Sofyan Mbarki, Amsterdam’s deputy mayor said.

“It has become clear that everyone cares about the city and that intervention is needed to counter the nuisance and overcrowding.

“If we want effective and forward-looking cooperation, both a long-term vision and appropriate measures are needed.

“Amsterdam is a metropolis and that means a lively and bustling city, but to keep our city livable, we now have to opt for limits instead of irresponsible growth.”

All proposals will be put to Amsterdam’s city council on December 21.


Featured Image: Cafe in Amsterdam (iStock/petekarici)

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