Wassenaar to draft local heat plan and trial longer terrace hours in summer

The municipal council of Wassenaar said it currently has no separate local heat plan, relying on the national plan and advice from the RIVM, KNMI and GGD Haaglanden. After questions from the local group Hart voor Wassenaar, the council agreed to study a dedicated heat plan for the summer of 2027 and to identify public buildings that could serve as accessible cooling spots for vulnerable residents.

From 17 July to 15 October 2026, Wassenaar will run a pilot that permits cafés and restaurants to keep their terraces open one hour later when the maximum temperature reaches 25 °C or higher, with a final closing time of 00:00. "Met deze pilot spelen we in op de behoefte van bewoners en bezoekers om op warme zomeravonden langer buiten te genieten," said wethouder Laurens van Doeveren. The trial will be evaluated for its effect on visitor demand, local businesses, livability and public order, and could lead to a permanent summer schedule.