The 96 homes and 27 shops, library, car park and offices in the Amsterdam district of Bos and Lommer that were evacuated on July 11 have now been declared ‘the safest buildings in the city’ by mayor Job Cohen.

The 200 residents who had to leave the buildings because of fears about structural safety are now allowed to return following extensive repair work. The buildings’ contractors have given each household a Christmas tree to welcome them home.