Wallonia is strengthening measures to fast-track and secure strategic projects vital for its economic redevelopment, Walloon Deputy Minister President François Desquesnes announced on Monday.
The regional government has approved a draft decree amending territorial development regulations to identify strategic projects eligible for expedited government permits, according to Desquesnes, whose portfolios include Urban Planning, Public Works, Traffic Safety, and Local Affairs.
The aim is to accelerate projects crucial for Wallonia’s economic, scientific, and industrial future while ensuring transparency, legal security, and robust procedures.
Anticipating the Einstein Telescope's requirements
One such project is the Einstein Telescope, a next-generation gravitational wave detector, whose European hosting location is to be decided in 2027.
Wallonia is vying to host the facility, which the government views as a cornerstone for boosting the region’s scientific and technological appeal.
The project is expected to generate significant benefits for Wallonia in innovation, high-skilled job creation, and international visibility. To realise this, the government intends to anticipate requirements and streamline procedures.
Redevelopment plans for industrial wastelands
The decree also covers redevelopment plans for ten industrial wasteland sites, each spanning at least 10 hectares and offering strong potential for regional economic revitalisation.
These sites include Carsid in Charleroi, Caterpillar in Gosselies, Chertal in Oupeye and Herstal, the Ougrée coke plant, Haut Fourneau B in Seraing, BASF/Chevron in Feluy-Seneffe, Duferco in La Louvière, and the Athus Container Terminal in Aubange.
These sites, according to Minister Desquesnes, have key advantages: they are already developed land, strategically located near logistics hubs and industrial zones, and capable of hosting large-scale industrial, innovative, or logistical projects.
Recycling existing land, efficient reindustrialisation
The redevelopment will focus on recycling existing land, reducing soil artificialisation, and supporting sustainable and efficient reindustrialisation for the benefit of citizens.
The new regulations are scheduled to take effect on 1 October, pending review by the Council of State.
