WILLEMSTAD – The long-delayed renovation of the monumental Courthouse in Punda is entering a new phase. Minister of Traffic, Transport and Urban Planning Charles Cooper announced that a permit has been granted for additional demolition works, with construction activities scheduled to begin in July 2026.
According to the ministry, the demolition marks an important next step in the large-scale restoration of the historic City Hall building, which houses the Court of Justice. Non-historic sections of the complex will be removed to make way for the restoration of protected monument elements and the construction of new additions to the building.
During the first phase, the site will be prepared for the use of heavy machinery. Authorities stated that characteristic and historic elements of the building will be preserved as much as possible throughout the process. Construction materials released during demolition will also be separated where possible for reuse in the redevelopment project.
The ministry said measures will be taken during the works to ensure safety around the site and to minimize inconvenience for surrounding businesses, residents and visitors in Punda.
The renovation project has already faced years of delays. The Court of Justice temporarily moved out of the deteriorating historic building in 2020 because of serious structural concerns. Since then, several preparatory works and permits for restoration and redevelopment have been completed.
The project includes not only the restoration of the historic courthouse itself, but also the demolition of later additions on the Waterfort side of the complex and the construction of new office wings. One of the best-known architectural features of the property, the historic “21-trapi,” will remain preserved as part of the redesigned complex.