On Monday afternoon, four trees were felled in Deurne-Zuid, sparking outrage among local residents and politicians alike. The tree cutting, part of a larger project along the Gitschotellei, began abruptly on 2025-08-18 19:46:00, catching many by surprise. Community members and activists from Het Juiste Spoor, alongside Groen councillor Meyrem Almaci, attempted to halt the work, highlighting a growing tension over the city’s handling of the situation.
- Vier bomen gekapt ondanks lopende beroepsprocedure
- Lokale politici en actiegroepen protesteren samen
- Kap uitgevoerd onder zware politiebewaking
- Stad communiceert niet met buurtbewoners
- Zestig bomen verdwijnen voor heraanleg Gitschotellei
- Bewoners vrezen extra verkeersdrukte en verlies groen
The city’s decision to start cutting trees without prior notice during the summer holidays has raised many questions. Why did the authorities proceed despite an ongoing legal appeal at the Raad voor Vergunningsbetwistingen? This controversy has led to a protest planned for 7 p.m. near the Sint-Jozefkerk, as locals continue to voice their concerns.
What impact will the removal of around sixty trees have on the neighbourhood’s environment and daily life? The fast answer below summarises the key points.
Is this a case of poor communication or deliberate disregard for community input? The situation highlights several issues:
- The city began tree removal despite an active appeal against the permit.
- Heavy police presence intimidated residents trying to observe the work.
- Local politicians and activists argue the city should engage as a partner, not bypass the community.
- Concerns include increased traffic, loss of green space, and reduced parking.
As protests loom and legal battles continue, the city must reconsider its approach to ensure residents’ voices are heard. Will Antwerp’s authorities pause the works and open dialogue, or will the conflict escalate further? The coming weeks will be crucial for Deurne-Zuid’s future.
