Waadhoeke municipality delays removal of pylons in Franeker

The Waadhoeke municipality has delayed the removal of large metal pylons located on the Breedeplaats in Franeker. Although the municipal council unanimously decided in late 2024 that the structures should be removed, the project has faced complications.

The pylons, which were originally installed to support a festival tent that is rarely used, have been criticized by residents for being an eyesore. However, the structures also support the lighting for the central square. A trial in which the lights were turned off led to concerns regarding public safety and the square's atmosphere.

Local authorities have concluded that immediate removal or a quick replacement of the lighting is not feasible. The municipality aims to avoid temporary solutions, duplicate work, or unnecessary costs by integrating the square's redevelopment into a broader long-term plan for the surrounding areas. Currently, both a comprehensive plan and a dedicated budget for the Breedeplaats are unavailable, as the council seeks to explore potential provincial or European subsidies for future urban projects.