The construction of the Albert Heijn distribution centre in the Lutkemeerpolder in Amsterdam is not going ahead, with fierce protests against the supermarket chain's plans in recent months. Albert Heijn has since cancelled the option on the plot.
On Sunday, Albert Heijn confirmed to activists that it drew a line under the reservation agreement for the polder land a few weeks ago. According to a spokesperson for the supermarket chain, there were no concrete building plans for the Lutkemeerpolder yet, Albert Heijn said it was still in the ordering phase. Meanwhile, the major retailer is looking at other locations, which are "strategically more interesting".
Whether the actions of opponents influenced Albert Heijn's choice is unknown. The action group Behoud Lutkemeer is speaking out vehemently against building up the Lutkemeerpolder. Albert Heijn was planning to build on part of the total 5.5 hectares, and in September the doors of 18 Albert Heijn branches were glued shut. The action was claimed anonymously by the group 'AH must Go', citing plans for a 'large concrete distribution centre in the precious Lutkemeerpolder'.
