By redeveloping the Place Sainte-Marie, the Brussels municipality of Molenbeek-Saint-Jean is taking further steps in its urban renewal. The square will be transformed into a safer, green area and meeting place.
The redeveloped square, located between the Brussels canal and the Comte de Flandre metro stop, will strengthen the connection between the Royal Toots Thielemans school and the neighbourhood.
"With this redevelopment, we not only want to create a safer school environment, but also improve the liveability of the neighbourhood. This way, the renovated Place Saint-Marie will become an attractive meeting place for young and old," said Saliha Raiss (Vooruit), Molenbeek councillor for spatial development and public works.
Currently, the school's entrance is behind a fully paved area, separated from the Comte de Flandre metro station and the surrounding neighbourhood by the Rue Sainte-Marie. In the future, the main entrance will be moved to Rue Sainte-Marie itself – making the square a natural meeting point.
Credit: Vooruit Brussels
Rue Sainte-Marie will be raised slightly to the level of the pavement, allowing pedestrians to access the square safely and comfortably while also reducing car traffic. The current Villo bike parking will move to another location to free up space. Colourful markings, benches, plants and trees will be used to create an attractive and inviting environment.
The renovated square will also serve as a meeting place and location for neighbourhood activities after school hours, giving the square an active role in the neighbourhood. "The grey space will be transformed into a place where it is pleasant to rest, sit on a bench and be surrounded by trees and shade on warmer days."
The total cost of the project will be €187,720.20, with the work being divided into two phases: roads and green areas will be constructed from 17 February to 31 March 2025, and street furniture will be installed from 1 April to 31 May 2025.
This redevelopment fits into a broader vision of the Molenbeek municipal council to make the public space around schools more functional and pleasant, while also strengthening the cohesion between schools and local residents.
