News of: Tuesday, February 21 2006,
The neighbourhood council has presented a plan to make the famous Leidseplein into a pedestrian zone.
Leidseplein is the square with the highest concentration of theatres, cinemas, restaurants, clubs and pubs of Amsterdam, and probably of the Netherlands too. The theatres Melkweg, Paradiso, Stadsschouwburg and Nieuwe de la Mar are just a few of the big names.
Also, some large hotels, like the well-known Hotel Americain and the Marriott Hotel are located here.
Because of this function, the neighbourhood council has decided to make more space for pedestrians. The streets around the square will become almost car-free.
The taxi stand is going to be moved to the south end of the square, and the bus and tram stops are going to be merged into one place.
A parking place for 4,500 bicycles will be built, as well as a new underground parking garage.
The Leidseplein now has a very complex and confusing traffic situation, with various roads and tram lines crossing each other. This is going to be made simpler.
The plan will first become subject to public discussion, and will be implemented later.
