Works will soon start to develop a derelict space of land in the heart of Molenbeek-Saint-Jean into a new 3-hectare park. The design for the new space was recently chosen.
Between the densely populated areas of Beekkant and Ossegem metro stations, lies a large, bare space which was once a railway site. Together with Bruxelles Environnement and initiatives such as Toestand and Decock 97, the land became a meeting space where people could meet, relax or play sports.
Due to the amount of concrete in that zone, a shortage of greenery persisted. However, the wasteland will soon become a tree-lined 3-hectare park.
"Today's railway site, which cuts the municipality in two, will tomorrow become a green space with sports and playgrounds and safe infrastructure bicycles and pedestrians," Ans Persoons (Vooruit), outgoing Brussels State Secretary for Town Planning and Heritage, said.
The design competition for the future West Park was won by the united architectural firms Studio Paola Vigano + Arcadis. Find more information and illustrations of their plans below.
Multi-purpose park
The architectural firms' ambitious plan is based on three pillars: a green park (more landscape and nature), a nurturing park (more cultural spaces and urban production) and a radiant park (more quality of life and connection with the neighbourhood). The project involved more participation of residents: their needs were listened to and the design met their expectations, habits and desires.
Credit: Studio Paola Vigano + Arcadis
Firstly, many new trees will be planted to form a large, continuous canopy that will give structure to the park. Then, play and sports areas will be created, where not only sports activities but also cultural events can be organised. "This will transform this public space into a versatile and attractive place," Persoons said.
Credit: Studio Paola Vigano + Arcadis
The different parts of the park, from the forest to the esplanade, will be linked by a green walkway along Rue Alphonse Vandenpeereboom. A cosy meadow will be created on Place West, visible from the surrounding streets.
Credit: Studio Paola Vigano + Arcadis
Plans also include the construction of a pedestrian bridge over the tracks to Rue des Etangs Noirs to further integrate the park into the existing network of surrounding green spaces (Parc Albert, Parc des Muses and Parc Marie-Jose). "The aim is for the park to go beyond its physical boundaries and make connections with neighbouring districts."
Credit: Studio Paola Vigano + Arcadis
Several pavilions or kiosks will be built to create spaces overlooking the park. Their design will be sustainable to fit within the framework of the park.
Credit: Studio Paola Vigano + Arcadis
"A new park in a city is forever," Kristiaan Borret, Brussels Master Builder, said. "Buildings come and go, but rarely is a park abolished once it is created. So it is an intervention of historical importance in the Brussels urban fabric."
