Living/housing

European energy suppliers Vattenfall and Eneco have reduced access to fixed-term contracts following a surge in gas prices due to the conflict in the Middle East. Both companies say the market is too volatile to offer the usual range of deals. The number of available contracts is limited, and new prices are already higher.

ProRail says gas use at train stations has dropped sharply after changing how and when heating is used. The organisation is now exploring alternatives for the few locations that still need warmth. Survey results suggest passengers have not noticed any decline in comfort.

Eindhoven officials are set to meet with housing corporations to address social housing tenants who also own private property. This move follows a court ruling in Amsterdam that allowed a corporation to terminate a lease under similar circumstances. While exact local figures are unknown, the city is looking to improve data sharing to prevent the potential abuse of social housing.

Homeowners in the Netherlands face higher municipal charges this year, with property taxes rising sharply in several areas. VEH warns that many municipalities are struggling financially and may continue raising taxes unless national funding improves. Some households now pay more than €1,000 a year in local housing-related costs

Authorities have announced nightly road closures between Geldrop and Heeze to protect migrating amphibians. The measure aims to provide a safe passage for toads, frogs, and newts as they move toward local breeding waters.

Students from Eindhoven’s major educational institutions recently hosted a lively election debate to hold local politicians to account. The discussion tackled urgent issues such as the city's housing crisis, street safety, and the fair treatment of vocational students. With 20,000 student votes at stake, the event highlighted deep divisions between parties on how to manage the city's growth.