A large indoor horse riding arena in Deurne has been operating illegally for years, despite the municipality’s awareness. The owner, Leny van den Eijnden, who is also the treasurer of the coalition party DOE!, plans to legalize the facility. This situation has sparked significant controversy, with political parties accusing the local government of complicity. The council will discuss the legalization on September 22, 2025, as tensions rise among residents.
- Illegal horse riding hall in Deurne
- Local government aware but did not intervene
- Owner linked to ruling political party
- Controversy over unequal enforcement of laws
- Plans to legalize the already built structure
- Ongoing discussions within the municipality
The Hippisch Centrum Deurne was purchased by Van den Eijnden in early 2021, who sought a permit for a new 3,000-square-meter indoor arena. Despite knowing the construction was illegal, she began building in early 2022 without waiting for approval. By September 2022, the arena was completed, prompting criticism from political parties, especially Transparant Deurne, which claims the council is guilty of “administrative incompetence.”
- The council will vote on the arena’s legalization soon.
- Political parties are demanding accountability from the local government.
- Residents express frustration over perceived favoritism in enforcement.
- Legal ramifications may follow if the council fails to address the issue properly.
The ongoing debate highlights significant governance issues in Deurne. Both the municipality and Van den Eijnden aim to resolve this matter quickly, but the community’s trust may be at stake.
