One of Brussels’ favourite green spots, Forest Park, has finally completed a four-year renovation which had put large parts of the park out of action for the last few summers.
70 years since its last renovation, the 13-hectare park has finally been restored to the former glory and charm of the 1950s, according to city and regional officials.
"Forest Park is a garden for those who don't have one," said Charles Spapens, Mayor, and Alain Mugabo, Councillor for Green Spaces.
"We are delighted that its renovation is nearing completion, with the heritage being enhanced, the number of trees increased and water management improved to reduce flooding in the lower part of the municipality," the local politicians added.
The renovated Forest Park, June 2025. Credit: Beliris
New playground, chalet
The works began in 2021, with plans to restore the old chalet and improve water management.
The chalet now houses a new catering area and a concierge service. Around it, welcoming terraces recreate the historic look, incorporating renovated old cast iron lampposts.
Two infiltration basins installed to stop the paths from eroding as a result of flooding and heavy rain. Its previous drainage systems also caused flooding in the lower parts of Forest municipality.
Furthermore, paths have been redesigned according to match their historical plans, while the original benches, lampposts and litter bins have been restored or replaced.
Trees, shrubs, plants and the large lawns have all been given a facelift through replanting, new maintenance or fertilisation. There is also a new playground, public toilets, improved access to drinking water and soon a new catering establishment will open.
Stairs from the renovated Forest Park, June 2025. Credit: Beliris
A new spiral path and two staircases provide easier access to the top of the hill, which gives park revellers a stunning view of the Brussels skyline. There is also new lighting which improves safety on the main paths in the park.
"The park is once again a place for walking, meeting and enjoying nature in the heart of the city," said Interior Minister Bernard Quintin, who is also responsible for Beliris, the body in charge of construction projects in Brussels and Belgium.
"Through this project, Beliris is fully demonstrating its role: investing in high-quality, sustainable and accessible public spaces for the benefit of all Brussels residents and visitors to the capital," Quintin added.
Budget woes
While the initial budget was of €2.25 million and a completion date expected in 2022, the works dragged on for another three years – with the final touches only being completed today, and the final budget running up to €10 million.
Work on the restoration of the chalet and canopies was carried out by contractors Eiffage PIT f, while ABOG restored the park. Design offices Sweco led the entire project and Coster & Vanden Eynde supervised the renovation of the chalet.
New playground inside the renovated Forest Park, June 2025. Credit: Beliris
The listed park opened in 1882 under the name ‘Midi Park’, given its location near the famous train station – yet many old photographs from the turn of the 20th century refer to it as Parc de Saint-Gilles, given that the municipality borders the large green space.
It was baptised with its current name, Forest Park, in 1913, and received heritage status from the city in 1973.
According to officials, the renovation aims to breath new life into an iconic part of Brussels heritage while responding to contemporary challenges, such as adapting to climate change and strengthening social cohesion.
