Changes to Schiphol’s environmental plan

Schiphol aims to be an airport with happy travellers, airlines and employees, in balance with the local environment. We are working to make the airport increasingly quieter and cleaner, and are encouraging, amongst other things, the use of newer aircraft. These aircraft are also larger, which means more space is needed for the aircraft themselves, passengers and cargo. Schiphol is investing in creating this space and refurbishing buildings and infrastructure. In doing so, Schiphol is working towards a future-proof airport that is better integrated with its surroundings.

Bijlage 2 Tekening gebied ROP en gebiedsvisies

One integrated plan

A new spatial plan is being drawn up to implement these plans, to clarify what may be built and where. In addition, decisions must be taken regarding accessibility and infrastructure, public order and safety, the landscape outside the airport and the design of public spaces.

As far as we are concerned, a future with prospects for all stakeholders is the basis for developments at and around Schiphol. To this end, we are currently working on a Spatial Development Plan (SDP) and considering the future of specific sub-areas. At the end of 2025, we already shared our vision for the future of Schiphol Centre. In the coming period, we will set out in writing our vision for areas such as the south-east and north-west of Schiphol (see map).

We believe it is important to communicate openly and clearly and to involve the local community. That is why both we and the local council organise various events at which residents, businesses and other stakeholders can contribute their ideas and give their feedback.

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Agreement in principle

To ensure that the preparation of the plans and the municipal review proceed smoothly, Schiphol and the municipality signed an agreement in principle at the end of 2025 setting out agreements on the objectives and the process.

Read the agreement in principle

Statement of Principles

The municipality of Haarlemmermeer is currently drawing up a Statement of Principles. This document sets out what the municipality does and does not want with regard to the use of space at Schiphol. The local council then adoptsthe Statement of Principles.

Spatial Development Plan

Based on this statement and our strategy, we are drawing up theSpatial Development Plan (SDP). It will set out our vision for the future, what we aim to achieve and what spatial planning measures are required to achieve this. Part of this involves examining the areas where the airport and the surrounding areas merge. We aim to improve the quality of life in these areas.

Two municipal area visions

It is important to the municipality that not only Schiphol continues to develop, but that the areas surrounding the airport are also further strengthened. That is why it is developing two area visions for the areas to the south-east and north-west of Schiphol. We are also contributing to this by setting out the development plans we have in mind for these airport areas and incorporating them into these visions. These area visions will also be adopted by the local council.

Environmental Impact Assessment

Schiphol is conducting studies into the impact of the plans on the environment and the local community. The local council sets out the scope of the studies (the Scope and Level of Detail Memorandum). The results of these studies are set out in an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), which is also approved by the local council.

Environmental plan

The information from the Regional Development Plan (RDP), the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and the area visions ultimately forms the basis for the municipality’s assessment of the plans. If the plans are approved, the environmental plan can be amended. The environmental plan sets out which developments will be possible in the future at and around Schiphol.

Planning

The agreement in principle was signed in 2025. In 2026, the council will work on the Statement of Principles, which is expected to be ready in early 2027. We will then begin drafting the Spatial Development Plan, the area visions, the Scope and Detail Memorandum and the EIA. The amended environmental plan is expected to be ready in early 2029. This schedule is subject to change.