Although the European hornet is not normally aggressive, it can become aggressive if people come too close to the nest, according to Knowledge and Advice Center for Animal Pests. This nest was probably just too close to the cycle path. In general, a few meters away is sufficient.
The same applies to the Asian hornet, an invasive exotic that is also known as terror wasp is called. That hornet also normally only becomes aggressive if you get too close to its nest.
According to pest controller Bram de Bruijn from Harmelen, the number of European hornets is slowly increasing. “Last year I had six litters, now ten. It’s not a huge number, but a little more every year.”
Preventing a nest is hardly possible in his eyes. “Of course you can close the cavity openings, but then they will be under the eaves again. The best thing you can do is call someone to clean them up when they are there.”