Climate-proof business park Beveren-Krommebeek
About this good practice
Due to the proximity to a residential area, the local residents initially strongly opposed the plans to develop the area where now Krommebeekpark is located as a business park. Therefore, during the development of the site plan, local residents were consulted multiple times. The objectives was not just to create space for business activity but to add value to the entire area. A balanced consensus was looked for among the area's designation for business, local residents concerns, the city council policy objectives, and the site's characteristics.
The delicate hydrological conditions and water management requirements created additional challenges. The site is intersected by the Krommebeek, which flows underground south of the project area through Beveren's center. Historically, this bottleneck caused severe flooding during heavy rainfall periods. Various low-lying zones and natural buffer basins were therefore created. During wet periods they store water when the brook floods its banks and at the same time, these zones provide opportunities for wetland development.
On the higher grounds, flowery grassland is interspersed with masses of shrubs and tall trees, which provide buffering and shelter. Management of the area is based on extensive mowing combined with grazing by sheep. In total, almost 15 hectares of the project area consists of space for greenery and water.
The approach produced a win-win situation for residents, businesses and the city of Roeselare.
Resources needed
The intermunicipal association WVI (West-Vlaamse Intercommunale) and the city of Roeselare worked together to develop the business park. Total budget of the project was € 5.185.000: € 120.000 for design - € 5.065.000 for the execution of works. No EU or other funding was received for the project.
Evidence of success
The development aligns perfectly with the city's objectives for the area, aiming to provide space for enterprises while addressing water issues as a priority.
The ambition to enhance nature and biodiversity into village centers through green-blue connections has been realized.
The new bike paths complement Roeselare's rich cycling tradition. Other forms of recreational use (walking, mountain biking, youth playgrounds and running tracks) have been integrated based on the green-blue structure.
Potential for learning or transfer
The city of Roeselare and WVI have worked over the past years on the development of the business park. The proximity to residential areas, the delicate water management and the various perspectives presented significant challenges. The result is a pleasant residential living, and working environment where business activities go hand in hand with space for green and blue areas.
An important step was the creation of a broadly supported development plan, with the aim of not merely designating the areas as a business park, but of adding value to the entire surroundings. Local residents were therefore consulted multiple times during the drafting of the plan. Ultimately, a balance had to be found between the designation of the area as a business park, the concerns of the residents, the policy objectives of the city of Roeselare and the characteristics of the site.
Further information
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