Amsterdam’s red-light district has develop into a smoke-free zone for hashish customers. (File)
Amsterdam’s well-known red-light district grew to become a smoke-free zone for hashish customers on Might 25.
Which means hashish consumption is not going to be allowed in public out of doors areas within the metropolis centre and be restricted to hashish espresso retailers. The ban applies to Dam Sq., the Damrak, the Nieuwenmarkt and the Purple Gentle District.
After years of complaints from residents concerning the wild behaviour of lots of the 18 million annual guests, a crackdown was enforced. Underneath the brand new guidelines, these smoking in public areas in these areas will first be issued a warning. If ignored, they are going to be penalised with a 100-euro wonderful.
In February, Amsterdam’s civic physique introduced plans to limit hashish consumption in some components of town. Whereas the brand new guidelines additionally apply to locals, the coverage has primarily been to maintain rowdy vacationers in test.
Over time, Amsterdam’s liberal coverage on hashish and different so-called “comfortable medicine,” has resulted in a number of neighbourhoods of town turning into disagreeable. Massive crowds who’re below the affect have an effect on the residents’ high quality of life.
As of now, out of doors areas of espresso retailers are excluded from the weed ban. However authorities might think about “banning smoking on terraces at espresso retailers” if the issue is not tackled.
