Dappermarkt traders say city changes are failing

Traders on the Dappermarkt say municipal changes introduced to revive the street market have backfired, leaving pitches empty and turnover in decline. Stalls continue to disappear as municipal fees increase.

Traders Martin Kelch and Dennis Barendse voiced their frustrations to the Oost district committee. They argued that measures agreed in October 2025, including widening stalls from three to four metres and clearing Dapperplein for outdoor cafe seating, have not helped.

Empty square and rising fees

The terraces promised for Dapperplein never arrived after stalls were removed, leaving an empty space in the middle of the market. Kelch described the square as holding little more than a few rusty planters.

Widening the stalls to four metres increased municipal charges without delivering the promised rise in sales. Roadworks on Linnaeusstraat have also blocked tram access to the market, further cutting foot traffic.

Demands for food and Sundays

Traders want Dapperplein turned into a food court catering to changing neighbourhood demographics. They also want regular Sunday trading, pointing out that an experimental opening on the final Sunday of each month over the summer drew strong crowds.

Stallholders are pointing to Ten Catemarkt in Amsterdam West, where a pilot scheme gives traders more independence to organise themed markets and cultural events with district support.

District leadership hesitates

District chairman Emre Ünver responded that an art installation will be placed on Dapperplein instead of a food court. He noted that regular Sunday markets are not permitted under the current layout decree, though openings on the last Sunday of September and October may be allowed.

Ünver defended the four-metre stall rule as city policy, though district committees have the power to make exceptions. He indicated he intends to hold further discussions with the traders.

Source: Oost Online