The Gemeente Groningen has pronounced itself ‘satisfied’ with the trial opening
It was pleasantly busy on the terraces on the Grote Markt in Groningen yesterday on the first day of a limited re-opening for hospitality businsesses, with the crowds never getting out of hand.
“We are very satisfied. There was a good atmosphere”, says municipality of Groningen spokesperson Natascha van ‘t Hooft.
“In general, everyone adhered well to the agreements,” she added. As reported by RTV Noord on Monday.
After the first day, satisfied noises are also coming from Koninklijke Horeca Nederland, the industry organisation. “We were a little worried that there would be a large influx of visitors at noon when it reopened, making it too busy. But that did not happen. The atmosphere was pleasant and friendly and entrepreneurs were well prepared, ‘said chairman Irene van der Velde of the Groningen department of the catering association.
The municipality had deployed extra stewards on Monday, especially to point out people to the rules. ‘Not so much to maintain, but to keep everything and everyone on the right track,’ emphasised Van ‘t Hooft.
In the coming days, the municipality will look at ways to improve the re-opening regulations. One area of concern is the Zuiderdiep, where business owners are dissatisfied because they cannot place terraces on the pavement. “We are going to talk to them,” said the municipality.
The flow of people walking, cycling, and driving round the city are also being looked at, whilst places for storing bicycles in the city are being reviewed.
Image via Wikimedia user JoachinKohlerBremen. License here
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