JOP De Coevering Removed Early Due to Fireworks Disturbances
The youth gathering place (JOP) on the field on Hudsonlaan in Geldrop has been removed. This decision was prompted by recent disturbances caused by fireworks around the JOP. The municipality had set up the JOP as a pilot project to give young people their own place to meet. Due to recent events, it was decided to end the pilot project early for safety reasons.
Over the past few months, the municipality has been in contact with local residents regarding the JOP and the situation in the area. That communication went well. There were no major problems, and the pilot program seemed to be progressing positively. Recent events have changed that in a short period of time.
The use of heavy fireworks is on the rise
Since last week, several reports have been received regarding fireworks-related disturbances in the JOP area. These reports also involved heavy fireworks. The municipality has observed that the use of heavy fireworks is on the rise, not only in De Coevering but also in several other locations in Geldrop-Mierlo. The municipality is paying close attention to this issue and considers it important to act quickly when the use of fireworks leads to dangerous situations or serious disturbances.
Immediate Action
Regarding the situation surrounding the JOP, we have been in contact with local residents, youth services, the police, and other relevant parties. The youth council is also involved. Together, we assessed what is needed at this time. From a safety perspective, it was then decided to take immediate action and remove the JOP. Alderman Frans Stravers: “We are deeply disappointed that a small group of young people is ruining it for everyone else. Precisely because things had actually been going quite well in recent months and we had a good relationship with the neighborhood, this hits especially hard. The JOP was intended to give young people a space of their own and to work together to figure out what works in the neighborhood. At the same time, we cannot turn a blind eye when situations arise that compromise safety. In those cases, we must take action. That is what we have done now.”
At the same time, the municipality realizes that removing the JOP does not mean that fireworks will no longer be set off on the field. Fireworks use is a broader problem that is evident in multiple locations throughout the municipality. Removing the JOP is therefore primarily an immediate measure to restore safety and calm to this area. The municipality will continue to monitor developments in the neighborhood and the rest of Geldrop-Mierlo, working in collaboration with the police, youth services, and other relevant parties.
Not all young people are responsible
The municipality emphasizes that the disturbances are not attributed to all the young people who used the JOP. Many young people simply gathered there and used the space as intended. “A meeting place for young people can only work if it is safe and pleasant for both the young people and the surrounding community,” says Alderman Stravers. “Unfortunately, that didn’t work out here. We want young people to have a place where they can meet. But we do not accept setting off fireworks—especially heavy fireworks—that endanger others or cause a disturbance.”
Working Together to See What Works
The JOP has since been removed. However, this does not mean the municipality is ending its dialogue with young people. The municipality will continue to work with young people, youth organizations, the youth council, the police, and residents to determine what is needed to provide young people with space in a positive and safe manner.
Stravers: “We don’t just want to say what isn’t possible. We also want to keep looking at what is possible. Young people are part of our community and need to be given space. At the same time, as a municipality, we also have a responsibility to ensure the safety of our residents. We will continue to balance these two priorities.”