Oldenzaal tackles fear of crime with light and cameras
Oldenzaal, dinsdag, 3 maart 2026.
Many women in Oldenzaal already avoid the Thijtunneltje after dark. They report feeling unsafe there. This tunnel is just one spot under scrutiny now. The city responds to growing concern by mapping places where residents feel vulnerable. Noes Nevels from the VVD pushed hard for action. She pointed to several paths between neighborhoods seen as unpleasant or risky. Her call gained support across parties. Even the mayor agrees perception matters as much as statistics. Teams will visit these locations firsthand. Their goal is to shape a new safety plan based on real experience. Simple fixes like better lighting could make a big difference. Installing surveillance cameras remains a sensitive option. Legal and financial hurdles exist. Still, improving public confidence stands central. Every measure aims to restore a basic sense of security during daily commutes. The work begins before local elections shift political responsibility.
residents voice concerns over neighborhood routes
Women in Oldenzaal frequently avoid the Thijtunneltje during evening hours due to safety concerns [1]. This tunnel is not the only problematic location. Paths connecting De Thij to De Graven Es, De Thij to De Essen, and Stakenboer to Zuid-Berghuizen are also considered uncomfortable and unsafe by residents [1]. VVD council member Noes Nevels emphasized the need for action, citing repeated signals from citizens who feel insecure in various parts of the city [1]. These experiences prompted calls for immediate municipal intervention [1].
mapping starts for targeted safety improvements
The municipality plans a careful inventory of unsafe spots in Oldenzaal [1]. Officials stress the importance of visiting sites personally to assess what measures are appropriate [1]. Proposed solutions include improved street lighting, redesign of public spaces, and potentially installing surveillance cameras [1]. Mayor Patrick Welman acknowledged the significance of perceived safety alongside statistical data [1]. Input from residents will inform the upcoming integral safety plan [1].
cameras face legal and financial barriers
Installing surveillance cameras is not straightforward. Mayor Welman clarified he does not have sole authority over such decisions [1]. Approval depends on the Public Prosecution Service [1]. Discussions with prosecutors may occur but come with associated costs [1]. While some politicians support proactive steps, WG Oldenzaal leader Mevlid Yildirim criticized timing, calling it inappropriate two weeks before municipal elections [1]. He believes the next council should handle detailed evaluations [1].
political consensus forms ahead of election
Most political factions back Nevels’ proposal to enhance street safety through structural changes [1]. The initiative aligns with broader national attention on urban security perceptions [1]. Despite disagreements on timing, cross-party recognition exists regarding the value of addressing citizen-reported risks [1]. Efforts focus on restoring everyday comfort during commutes [1]. The debate among party leaders took place on March 3, 2026, further highlighting urgency before the March 18 elections [2].