De Liemers merger proposal established by four municipalities

The municipal colleges of Doesburg, Duiven, Westervoort, and Zevenaar have officially established a redesign proposal to merge into a new municipality named ‘De Liemers’. The proposed entity would consist of approximately 95,000 residents spread across 17 towns and villages.

The merger aims to increase administrative strength and capacity, allowing the region to act as a more unified partner toward provincial and national governments. Financial feasibility studies conducted by the province of Gelderland indicate the new municipality can start from a healthy financial position. A key focus of the ‘powerful & local’ vision is to combine the advantages of a larger municipality with the distinct identity of local communities.

The proposal now moves to the four municipal councils, which are scheduled to vote on the plan on November 16, 2026. Following this, an eight-week public consultation period will allow residents to voice their views. If approved, a second decision is expected on March 15, 2027, followed by provincial and national legal procedures. The target start date for the new municipality is January 1, 2029.