Residents of Veerstraat in Amsterdam-Zuid sat with tables and chairs in an excavation pit to protest Liander’s planned electricity substation outside their homes. They said they had not understood from an earlier notice that the structure would be placed directly at the site, and objected to its effect on the street and the loss of three parking spaces. The workers left and are due to make another attempt to begin construction on Monday; residents say they plan to resume their protest.

Liander is installing substations to expand the electricity grid. The report says a permit is not required for such utility structures when they are under three metres high and no more than 15 square metres, leaving residents without a formal route to object. It also says locations are selected using criteria including road safety, greenery, protected townscape, underground space and access for maintenance.