The Municipality of The Hague recently presented the 2027-2030 budget. The Municipal Executive has opted for targeted investments in housing construction, safety, accessibility, liveable neighbourhoods, and a vibrant city. At the same time, work is being done to restore the municipality’s financial position so that The Hague can continue to invest in the growth and quality of the city in the future. The total size of the budget for 2027 is €3,715 million.
The budget is a proposal from the Municipal Executive and will be adopted by the City Council on November 11. The document constitutes the financial translation of the ambitions set out in the coalition agreement ‘For The Hague, with The Hague’ .
Alderwoman Lotte van Basten Batenburg (Finance): “With this budget, we are laying the foundation for a stronger The Hague. We are investing in the growth of the city and in the facilities that residents use every day. We are doing this with an eye on the future: by making decisive choices, we ensure that The Hague remains financially strong in the coming years.”
A liveable and growing city
The Hague continues to work on accelerating the realization of homes to meet the high demand for housing. The Municipal Executive is committed to building 4,000 homes per year and ensuring a balanced distribution of affordable and more expensive homes across the city. In addition, investments are being made in area developments, attractive public spaces, and new amenities. This creates room for growth while strengthening the livability of existing neighborhoods.
Safe and healthy neighborhoods
Safety and liveability form a key pillar of the budget. Therefore, the Municipal Executive is allocating additional resources for enforcement and surveillance in the neighborhoods. 80 extra special enforcement officers will be deployed to focus on issues such as street harassment and littering. In addition, structural investments are being made in tackling subversive crime and strengthening the city’s digital resilience.
The municipality also invests in strong neighborhoods and the implementation of the neighborhood agendas, with a focus on prevention, well-being, and what residents consider important in their neighborhood.
Opportunities for children and young people
The Municipal Executive continues to invest in equal opportunities for all children and young people in The Hague. Extra attention will be paid to reducing child poverty, quality education, and talent development. Investments will also be made in additional sports facilities, such as artificial turf football pitches. Free travel on public transport will also be available to young people up to and including the age of 17 with an Ooievaarspas.
A bustling city
A vital economy and a strong cultural offering make The Hague an attractive place to live, work, and visit. Therefore, the municipality invests in shopping areas, business parks, the coast, and The Hague’s cultural sector. Cultural institutions, events, and creators that contribute to The Hague’s identity and appeal are cherished. In addition, the Municipal Executive focuses on attracting international conferences and events, as these are inextricably linked to The Hague as an international city of peace and justice.
Improved accessibility for residents and businesses
To keep The Hague accessible, the Municipal Executive is investing in infrastructure, road safety, and parking solutions. Paid parking will only be introduced if parking pressure exceeds 90% and with the support of residents. Existing on-street and garage parking capacity is being utilized more effectively. The Municipal Executive also remains committed to good connections for public transport, cycling, and cars. These investments not only support residents but also contribute to a strong business climate for entrepreneurs.
Looking to the future
The 2027-2030 budget marks the start of the implementation of the coalition agreement. At the same time, the financial position of municipalities nationwide remains under pressure due to rising costs and uncertainty regarding future central government contributions. The Municipal Executive is therefore firmly committed to sound financial policy and decisive choices. This creates room to make investments that demonstrably contribute to a stronger The Hague.
View the entire budget here: denhaag.raadsinformatie.nl/modules/13/Overige%20bestuurlijke%20stukken/1194976
Text: Gemeente Den Haag
Photo: Alderman for Finance Lotte van Basten Batenburg. Photographer: Valerie Kuypers.