Gouda and Bodegraven-Reeuwijk address local waste and social policy issues

Residents of the Korte Akkeren neighborhood in Gouda are reporting severe odor nuisance and pollution caused by an underground waste container. Locals describe the smell as being as bad as ‘a corpse’ and note that waste is frequently left beside the container or hanging from lamp posts. The issue reportedly intensified following the 2025 introduction of separate PMD (plastic, metal, and drink cartons) collection. While the municipality states the container meets distance regulations, residents express frustration over the resulting litter and hygiene problems.

In Bodegraven-Reeuwijk, local authorities are addressing two distinct policy issues. A new policy plan for 2027-2031 aims to support the 27% of residents aged 16 to 75 who lack sufficient basic skills, a figure higher than the national average. The plan focuses on finding and motivating residents, developing educational offerings, and improving municipal communication.

Additionally, the municipality is reviewing housing regulations for labor migrants and unaccompanied minor refugees. Following discussions with the Province of Zuid-Holland, proposals have shifted from temporary to permanent housing at locations including Nespad and Goudseweg. The revised framework may increase capacity for labor migrant housing to up to 200 residents.