Dendermonde Implements Citywide Restrictions to Curb Violence

Dendermonde (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Dendermonde enforces a summer-long ban on gatherings and city centre access to combat rising incidents of street fights and intimidation, officials confirm.

This follows reports of fights, intimidation, destruction, and noise pollution over the previous two months. This relates to a prohibition on meetings on the Oude Vest and Grote Markt in Belgium. Individual entrance is prohibited, and catering businesses in the market have a closing time.   

According to the city, there have been multiple disruptions of public order on Dendermonde‘s Grote Markt. These include noise pollution, conflicts, harassment, glass throwing, and intimidation. 

The evenings and nights were the worst times for the annoyance. Additionally, there were fights and other disturbances on Oude Vest, a shopping strip, particularly close to the nightclub.

“The incidents were mainly caused by groups of young people,”

it says. 

“This nuisance creates a feeling of insecurity, and we cannot tolerate that, especially now that the summer period has started,”

said Mayor Leen Dierick (CD&V).

The catering businesses on the Grote Markt are also worried about the rise in occurrences, according to a discussion between the city, the police, and the businesses. For this reason, some extra steps have been decided upon. 

Between 23:00 and 8:00, no more than four individuals may congregate on or near the Grote Markt. the vicinity of Oude Vest. 

The catering businesses on and around the Grote Markt close at three o’clock. By 2:45, the music has to end. Additionally, three individuals have been prohibited from the vicinity of the Grote Markt.

Eight persons were recently banned by the mayor, meaning they are not permitted to visit specific locations for a while.

The police will also check whether the measures are being complied with.

“Dendermonde is a safe city and it should remain that way. Everyone is welcome, but people must adhere to the rules and public order must not be compromised,”

the city added.

How will the new safety measures affect local residents and businesses?

By lowering noise pollution, intimidation, fights, and property destruction in and around the Grote Markt and Oude Vest neighborhoods, these actions should enhance the quality of life for locals.

Improved tranquility and safety can lessen the tension and worry brought on by disruptions, making living spaces more comfortable.

Due to early closing hours and restrictions on gatherings, nightlife venues and catering businesses may experience financial difficulties, which could lower evening business and patronage.

Better public safety, however, might also draw in a wider variety of patrons, such as senior tourists and families, who would have previously shunned the region out of fear for their safety.

Longer term, businesses might gain from a more secure, hospitable atmosphere that encourages sustainable economic growth.