Minister refuses fireworks storage permit in Baarle-Hertog, citing Enschede disaster fears

Flemish Minister Jo Brouns has denied a permit for a fireworks storage facility in Baarle-Hertog for the third time, citing safety concerns and local opposition. The company, Loots Vuurwerk, sought permission to store more than two tons of fireworks, but its applications have been repeatedly rejected by both provincial authorities and the minister.

Mayor Philip Loots of Baarle-Hertog expressed relief, noting that 380 residents, approximately 15% of the municipality's population, filed objections against the plans. He highlighted that the significant number of objections was a key factor in the minister's decision. The mayor emphasized that having two different ministers from different political parties reject the application strengthens the community's position.

Local residents voiced strong concerns, with one neighbor questioning the need for such a facility in their village center. Another resident, originally from the Netherlands, recalled the devastating fireworks disaster in Enschede, expressing fear of a similar event. Concerns were also raised about the proximity of the proposed storage to residential areas and a nearby gas station.

Despite the repeated rejections, the fireworks company, Loots Vuurwerk, has shown persistence by resubmitting applications with minor modifications. The mayor acknowledged that it is unclear if this is the final decision, as the applicant could potentially submit a new dossier. The relationship between the fireworks business and the municipality is described as strained, with the business owner reportedly initiating several legal proceedings against the local government.

“

We willen geen ramp zoals in Enschede