This weekend, environmental activists set up their tents in Parkveld, a part of Heverlee near Leuven, for a three-day protest event named 'Camping Parkveld,’ which includes information sessions, music, and poetry to oppose planned housing construction on the green space.
The activists are responding to the new master plan from the city of Leuven, which proposes the construction of additional housing on Parkveld, consisting of 173 homes: 44 houses, 22 duplexes, and 107 apartments, spread over two phases in the northern section. Currently, the open space is used for agriculture, nature activities, and recreation. The activists argue that the plan primarily serves the interests of developer Nextensa and was created without consulting local residents, farmers, or environmental groups.
“We have always advocated for the complete preservation of Parkveld,” said activist Stijn Verhofstadt. “Firstly, the land is ideal for urban agriculture, aligning with Leuven’s short supply chain climate action plan. Secondly, Parkveld acts as an essential green corridor for various species between the Molenbeek Valley/Parkabdij and Heverleebos. Thirdly, it is situated in a water catchment area for De Watergroep. Additionally, Parkveld has become a public walking and recreation area. Lastly, it offers numerous opportunities for ecological cultural experiences, such as community gardens, play forests, food forests, and ecological farming.”
The activists acknowledge the need for affordable housing but claim the plan primarily targets expensive private development, contributing little to resolving the housing crisis. They urge the city council to take the promised participation process seriously and are open to dialogue, while not ruling out further legal, political, or civil actions.
