Dutch government finalises defence-site plans, including Lelystad Airport expansion

The Dutch government has finalised decisions on military sites including Lelystad Airport, where it plans a 240-hectare expansion to accommodate F-35 fighter aircraft. The decision affects four farm homes and six other businesses within land the Ministry of Defence says it will need for the project.[1]

The airport will expand to the north-west and south, with 200 hectares earmarked for military infrastructure and 40 hectares for a longer runway. The government had previously considered a provisional 150-hectare expansion. Defence State Secretary Derk Boswijk said the owners of the affected homes and businesses had been informed personally and would receive support.

The final decisions also designate the existing Breezanddijk firing range for more weapons and ammunition testing on the IJsselmeer, subject to an annual average noise limit of 55 dB BS,dan at homes and other noise-sensitive buildings. At Petten, there will be no immediate increase in firing sessions or days at sea: the government says more research is needed because of concerns about noise, vibration and nature.

Decisions on Leeuwarden, Woensdrecht, Gilze-Rijen and Eindhoven airbases, and the Infantry Firing Range, remain unchanged. The government says national decision-making on its Defence Space Programme (NPRD) is complete, but projects still require different studies, planning procedures and permits before work can begin. Boswijk is expected to update parliament on next steps later this year.[1]