There are plans to build housing in parts of the De Kwakel-Kudelstaart greenhouse area in the Netherlands. A group of horticultural companies, which includes entrepreneurs who, with few exceptions, have reached retirement age, have decided to offer a corner of 18-25 hectares. The current zoning is horticulture and sales efforts are also basically aimed at horticultural entrepreneurs.
This is all in consultation with Greenport Aalsmeer. Spokesperson Hans de Vries, speaking on behalf of a group of market gardeners, is therefore surprised by a letter from Greenport Aalsmeer protesting against the plans for housing development.
Because of the consultation with Greenport Aalsmeer, the entrepreneurs are surprised by Greenport Aalsmeer's stance. "As far as we are concerned, Greenport's stance is irrelevant. Greenport represents the interests of Greenport, not the horticultural entrepreneurs. The said plans may be at odds with the developments envisaged by Greenport. However, these 'developments' exist only in Greenport's mind and lack any connection to reality. We can draw that conclusion from the interest there has been for the plot over the past year."
Hans points out that sales efforts by the growers have been going on for more than a year. "There have been no horticultural companies showing serious interest during this period. Interest is there among property developers, though."
Not all horticulturists feel this way, according to a comment from colleague Gert Ubink. "I think it is true that the Greenport does not stand up for individual interests, but rather for the common good for greenhouse farming." The horticulturist does not concur with Hans' words.
Local party FlorAalsmeer is now keen to use part of the area for housing development. The plan has not yet been decided on.
Nieuwe Oogst also publishes on the issue.