ROTTERDAM, 16 July 2026 – A night-time area ban will come into force in parts of De Esch from 23 July, following persistent complaints about noise and public disorder. The restriction applies between 23:00 and 05:00 for an initial period of three months.
Image: Map showing the parts of De Esch covered by the night-time area ban from 23 July 2026.
The measure covers parts of De Esch and the quays along the Nieuwe Maas, where people arriving from outside the neighbourhood have reportedly caused repeated disturbance during the evening and night. Previous attempts to reduce the nuisance have not produced a sufficient improvement.
Night-time access will be restricted
Between 23:00 and 05:00, people may no longer enter or remain inside the designated area without a recognised reason. Police officers may stop anyone present during these hours and ask why they are there.
The ban was introduced at the request of the local area committee and the police. Mayor Carola Schouten is using powers granted under Article 2:47a of Rotterdam’s General Municipal By-law (Algemene Plaatselijke Verordening, APV).
“The quality of life in the neighbourhood is under pressure,” Schouten said. “Peace must return to De Esch, and residents must feel comfortable and safe. That is why I am using this authority.”
The map published by the municipality shows that the restricted zone covers several areas along the Maasboulevard and the waterfront. It includes streets around Oude Plantagedreef, Plantagelaan, Waterwerk, Watertorenweg and parts of the Buitenbassinweg, as well as a smaller section near Kralingse Esch.
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Several groups are exempt
The restriction does not prevent people who live in the designated area from returning home or moving through their neighbourhood. Guests visiting local residents are also permitted to enter.
People working in the area, employees travelling to or from work, emergency services, police officers and municipal enforcement staff are exempt as well. Contractors and others carrying out legitimate work may also remain in the area during the restricted hours.
Visitors to restaurants, event venues and sports facilities within the zone can continue to attend these locations. Anyone questioned by police may be asked to explain where they are going or why they are present.
The wording means the measure is aimed primarily at people gathering in the area without a clear connection to the neighbourhood, particularly when their presence contributes to noise, nuisance or disorder.
Map showing the parts of De Esch covered by the night-time area ban from 23 July 2026.
Police will enforce the ban
Rotterdam Police will be responsible for enforcing the restriction. Anyone found inside the zone between 23:00 and 05:00 may be checked, even when no separate offence has been observed.
The municipality hopes the temporary ban will discourage night-time gatherings and restore a quieter environment along the waterfront. The measure will remain in force for three months, after which its effects can be reviewed.
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Long-running nuisance in De Esch
De Esch combines residential streets, former waterworks buildings and long stretches of waterfront. The relatively secluded quays have also attracted visitors during the evening, particularly in warmer weather.
Residents have reported recurring noise and disturbances affecting the public order. The municipality says the new restriction is necessary because earlier interventions have not brought the continuing problems to an end.
