Latest News from the Nuenen Asylum Seekers' Center

July 8, 2026 - The municipality, the COA, and local residents are preparing for the opening of the asylum seekers' center in Nuenen

On Wednesday evening, July 8, 2026, during the first community meeting, the municipality, the COA, and local residents discussed the opening of the asylum seekers’ center and further cooperation regarding safety, quality of life, and engagement with the local community. On September 8, Nuenen will welcome the first residents of the asylum seekers’ center. In total, the asylum seekers’ center will accommodate 159 people: a mixed group of families and single individuals (no minors) who are going through the asylum process in the Netherlands. They will be housed in living quarters of various sizes, with the option to cook for themselves. Play areas have been set up for families with children. 

A regular asylum seekers’ center is being established in Nuenen; it is not a registration center or emergency shelter. It is intended for residents who are expected to stay at the location for an extended period of time. This will result in a stable group of residents rather than a constant turnover of new residents. 

Alderman Walravens: “We know that the arrival of the asylum seekers’ center raises questions and concerns. That is precisely why we believe it is important to maintain an open dialogue with local residents. The arrival of the asylum center is a done deal. Our focus is now on ensuring a safe, well-managed facility and on fostering good cooperation with the immediate neighbors. I am confident that, together—as a municipality, the COA, and local residents—we will handle this well.”

Collaboration 

During the meeting with local residents, there were many practical questions about the building’s accessibility and additional crosswalks, as well as concerns about the impact of illegal fireworks on the residents of the asylum seekers’ center. Questions were also raised about the composition of the target group. The COA cannot yet provide any details about the exact composition of the group coming to Nuenen, but it has been agreed that a meeting with local residents will be held shortly after the opening to discuss this and other matters. 

Building trust continues to require the attention and time of all parties involved. This evening marks an important step in the collaboration between local residents, the asylum center’s site manager, the community police officer, Alderman responsible Alderman the mayor. Concerns about safety expressed by local residents have, in most cases, been addressed with a call to report any incidents or feelings of insecurity. The COA has set up a hotline that residents of Nuenen can contact 24/7. 

Follow-up steps

On September 8, the first residents will arrive at the asylum seekers’ center. Just before the opening, immediate neighbors will have the opportunity to take a sneak peek inside the center. On Saturday, September 26, during Neighbors’ Day, the COA will host an open house, and everyone from Nuenen is welcome to come take a look. 

You, too, can help make the asylum seekers’ center a success. Are you interested in volunteering? If so, please sign up at fmznuenen@coa.nl.Het. The COA will work with interested individuals to determine what kind of assistance is needed at any given time.