Call to Illuminate Groningen’s Martini Tower at Night
City councillors advocate for immediate lighting up of Martini tower amid safety concerns.
Groningen's Martini Tower, which was recently named the most beautiful church tower in the Netherlands, remains unlit, prompting city councillors to urge a swift resolution to bring the landmark back into the spotlight. The Stadspartij 100% for Groningen, backed by PVV, Party for the North, and CDA factions, has raised questions in the city council about the delays in illuminating the tower and the wider issue of insufficient lighting across the city.
The Martini Tower, also known as D’Olle Grieze, won 26% of the votes in a recent national poll organized by Kerk & Co and Nederlands Dagblad, claiming the title of the nation’s most beloved church tower. Following this recognition, Groningen residents and city officials alike are eager to see the tower showcased. However, ongoing delays attributed to broken and inefficient lighting have left the landmark dim and the public disappointed.
Councillor Niels Hilboesen from Stadspartij 100% for Groningen expressed frustration over the delays, noting that the lighting repairs were supposed to be completed after the summer. Hilboesen emphasised the significance of showcasing the Martini Tower, especially after its recent recognition, while also highlighting safety issues. During a recent city council bike ride, councillors identified several inadequately lit areas prone to safety concerns, including Martinikerkhof, De Gele Loper, and Grote Markt, all of which could benefit from better lighting for safety.
The energy crisis in Europe saw many cities reducing public lighting for sustainability reasons, a move that affected Groningen’s landmark lighting while sparing shops and businesses. Hilboesen suggests that Groningen could benefit from a more balanced lighting approach, distinguishing between essential safety lighting, such as for cyclists, and lighting for iconic structures like the Martini Tower. By involving residents in discussions on optimal lighting strategies, the council aims to increase both safety and civic pride.