New safety measures are set to tackle public disturbances around Dendermonde’s Grote Markt and Oude Vest. Starting Friday, July 3, 2025, at 20:30:00, local authorities will enforce restrictions aimed at reducing late-night disorder in these popular areas.
- Maatregel geldt tot zondag 31 augustus
- Samenscholingsverbod vanaf 23 uur 's nachts
- Horecazaken sluiten uiterlijk om 3 uur
- Plaatsverbod opgelegd aan elf personen
- Overlast veroorzaakt door groepjes jongeren
- Uitzonderingen voor evenementen en maandagmarkt
The measures include a curfew for gatherings of more than four people between 11 p.m. and 8 a.m. near the Grote Markt, with bars required to close by 3 a.m. Similar rules apply near the Oude Vest, where the gathering ban lasts until 6 a.m. These steps come after months of complaints about noise, vandalism, and violence mainly caused by groups of youths.
With these new rules, can the city restore peace without harming its vibrant nightlife? And how will local businesses adapt? Let’s explore what these changes mean for residents and visitors alike.
Why are these measures necessary now, and what impact might they have? The city aims to balance safety with social life by:
- Imposing a gathering ban for groups larger than four during late-night hours
- Requiring hospitality venues near Grote Markt to close by 3 a.m.
- Exempting permitted city events and the Monday market from restrictions
- Issuing location bans to eleven individuals linked to prior disturbances
As the restrictions take effect, residents and businesses will watch closely. Will these steps reduce nighttime trouble while preserving the area’s lively atmosphere? Continued dialogue between authorities, hospitality owners, and the public will be essential to ensure long-term success.
