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
National park status for Hollandse Duinen
The Hollandse Duinen area has officially been designated as a national park, marking a major milestone for nature in South Holland.
Stretching along the coast from Hoek van Holland to Hillegom, the area includes dunes, beaches, estates and green landscapes, home to more than 7,000 plant and animal species. The new status is seen as both recognition and a boost for future development, with a focus on nature conservation, recreation and sustainable use of the landscape.
National exercise week encourages active ageing
Residents aged 65 and over are invited to take part in the National Exercise Week from 18 to 22 May.
The initiative promotes physical activity and social interaction, both considered essential for healthy ageing. A wide range of activities will be organised across Wassenaar, including walking football and senior fitness sessions. Participation is free after registration.
Sale of Clingendael bunker delayed
The planned sale of the former Nazi bunker at Clingendael has been delayed due to an investigation into possible irregularities in the bidding process.
Concerns include potential breaches of confidentiality and questions about the independence of the selection committee. An external agency is now reviewing the case, while the future of the site remains uncertain.
New water tap promotes healthy choices for youth
A new public water tap has been installed near the skate park as part of efforts to promote healthier lifestyles among young people.
The initiative is part of the national JOGG programme, which encourages exercise and healthy habits. Earlier activities included a school event where children collectively took 1.5 million outdoor steps and the distribution of fruit during a local sports tournament.
Zwemloop and Duintrail preparations underway
Preparations have started for the annual Zwemloop and Duintrail events, which will take place on 30 August
Participants can choose between a combination of sea swimming and trail running or a separate 10 km dune trail. The event continues to attract participants from across the Netherlands and beyond, combining sport with nature and community spirit.
Remembering the food drops of April 1945
This week marks the anniversary of the Allied food drops over Wassenaar and surrounding areas on 29 April 1945.
During the final days of the Second World War, British and American aircraft delivered thousands of tonnes of food to the starving population in the western Netherlands. The drops brought not only much-needed supplies, but also hope, signalling that the end of the occupation was near.
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