HousingCrime

Security measures at vacant Almere office building as housing plans advance

The owners of a vacant former ASQ Group office building on Randstad 20 in Almere have reportedly increased security by installing cameras and barbed wire, deploying guards with dogs and starting a dedicated clean-up operation. The building has been empty for eight years and has reportedly been affected by trespassing, drug dealing, squatting and repeated fires. The measures came after the municipality of Almere filed a court case in September seeking a €15,000 penalty for each new incident; the owners said the security steps were not dependent on the court's decision, which had not yet been issued.

Plans displayed at the site call for an apartment complex with 164 rental homes. The owners were reportedly awaiting an agreement with the municipality, which was expected to be signed shortly, after which the building permit could become final. They said they wanted to end the building's deterioration and begin construction quickly, while the municipality was expected to provide more information about the project.