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🇧🇪 Belgium /Culture & Society

Less waste and noise reported in Harelbeke as cameras and checks prove effective

From VRT NWS · () Dutch

Translated from Dutch, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Context piece
  • Harelbeke has seen a significant reduction in waste and noise disturbances on the Marktplein since early July.
  • The city implemented surveillance cameras and systematic identity checks by police to address the issues.
  • Authorities plan to appoint municipal enforcement officers (GAS-ambtenaren) in September to further control the situation.

Harelbeke has successfully curbed persistent issues of waste and noise on its central Marktplein, reporting a marked decrease in disturbances since early July. The city's proactive measures, including the installation of surveillance cameras and regular police identity checks, appear to be yielding positive results.

Mayor Michaël Vannieuwenhuyze acknowledged the significant problem of public nuisance, particularly from young people creating excessive noise after 10 p.m. and leaving behind considerable amounts of litter. "We noticed that there was a lot of nuisance on the Marktplein," Vannieuwenhuyze stated. "Young people making a lot of noise after 10 p.m. and challenging people. It is understandable that people gather in the evening, especially with those temperatures, but after a certain hour, it is intended to be a bit quieter. Additionally, we noticed that a lot of waste was being left behind."

We noticed that there was a lot of nuisance on the Marktplein. Young people making a lot of noise after 10 p.m. and challenging people. It is understandable that people gather in the evening, especially with those temperatures, but after a certain hour, it is intended to be a bit quieter. Additionally, we noticed that a lot of waste was being left behind.

— Michaël VannieuwenhuyzeThe mayor of Harelbeke describing the problems on the Marktplein.

The implementation of cameras and police checks has been well-received by residents. "During my vacation, I was back in Harelbeke a few times. From most local residents, I get the message that it has helped," the mayor reported, indicating that the city is on the right track. To further enhance control and address the ongoing issue of litter, especially during warmer weather, extra trash bins have been added.

Looking ahead, Harelbeke plans to appoint municipal enforcement officers (GAS-ambtenaren) starting in September. These officers will work in conjunction with the existing surveillance systems to ensure better compliance with public order regulations. The city believes this combined approach will effectively manage the situation and maintain a more peaceful and clean environment on the Marktplein.

During my vacation, I was back in Harelbeke a few times. From most local residents, I get the message that it has helped.

— Michaël VannieuwenhuyzeThe mayor reporting positive feedback from residents on the new measures.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by VRT NWS in Dutch. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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