Welcome to this week’s edition of Wassenaar Weekly. Your source for local stories, events, and community news in English, brought to you by Wassenaarders.nl.
Cyclist Seriously Injured in Traffic Accident
A serious accident occurred on Schoolstraat, involving a car and a cyclist. The cyclist was seriously injured and taken to hospital.
Police have launched an investigation, with traffic forensic specialists examining the scene. Both the car and the bicycle have been seized for further analysis.
Authorities are calling on witnesses and anyone with camera footage (such as dashcams or doorbell cameras) to come forward.
Book Launch Breaks Silence Around Youth Depression
A new book titled “;” (semicolon) was launched at Theater Warenar, addressing mental health challenges among young people.
Written by mother and daughter Marlies and Tess van der Hout, the book shares real-life stories of young women who found a way forward after experiencing depression.
The central message is clear: talking about mental health can make a real difference.
The launch event — including a theatre adaptation — sold out within 48 hours, underlining the importance of the topic.
Duinrell Expands Test Ride Event After Huge Interest
Amusement park Duinrell received an overwhelming 10,000 registrations for the test rides of its new Kikker8baan roller coaster.
Due to this strong interest, the number of selected participants has been increased from 100 to 500.
The test rides will take place on 1 April, ahead of the official opening on 3 April.
The new attraction combines nostalgia with innovation, continuing the legacy of the original family coaster.
Election Results Officially Confirmed
The results of the municipal elections have now been officially confirmed by the Central Electoral Committee (video).
The outcome reflects the earlier provisional results:
- VVD remains the largest party with 8 seats
- Hart voor Wassenaar follows with 4 seats
- Several other parties hold 1–2 seats, resulting in a more fragmented council
Voter turnout reached over 63%, significantly higher than in 2022.
The new municipal council will be installed on 1 April, while coalition talks are already underway.
Human Rights Body Criticises Policy on Traveller Communities
The Netherlands Institute for Human Rights has ruled that parts of Wassenaar’s policy regarding traveller (woonwagen) communities are discriminatory.
According to the ruling, the lack of rental options for caravan sites places some residents at a disadvantage, as they are effectively required to buy rather than rent — unlike on the regular housing market. In addition, proposed rules limiting the transfer of pitches to family members only are considered too restrictive.
The municipality acknowledges that there are areas for improvement and is currently reviewing the findings. A formal response is expected by 27 April 2026.
Excelsior Announces Spring Concert
As part of its 125th anniversary year, Excelsior Wassenaar will present a special spring concert titled “Timeless Sounds” on 18 April in the St. Petruskerk in Leiden.
The harmony orchestra will perform together with organist Aarnoud de Groen and brass ensemble Fridaybrass, promising a rich and atmospheric musical evening.
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