Maand van de Waarheid.. Public Inquiry Launches for Friche Josaphat Future in Belgium

Public Inquiry Begins on Friche Josaphat Future in Belgium

Zones van biologische waarde will shape Josaphat’s future, with over half the 540 planned homes public, sparking interest across Belgium’s urban development scene.

Marie Dupont25 August 2025Last Update : 11 hours ago

Maand van de waarheid voor 'friche Josaphat': openbaar onderzoek van start

www.bruzz.be

The development of the Josaphat-site has taken a new turn with the inclusion of “zones van biologische waarde” as part of the urbanization plans. This initiative, announced around 2025-08-25 10:33:00, highlights a growing focus on integrating biodiversity within urban projects in Brussels. The site, located on a former railway terrain, is set for a major transformation by Axa-Eiffage, who secured the contract in April 2023.

6 Key Takeaways

Axa-Eiffage secured Josaphat-site development contract
Plans include 540 mixed public-private homes
Original 509 homes plan expanded and modified
Eiffage removes planned commercial retail space
Developer aims to create high biodiversity zones
Chief officer declines comment on permit process

Originally, the plan aimed to build eight residential blocks totaling 509 homes, with more than half designated for social housing or government-supported sales. However, recent updates reveal an increase to a maximum of 540 units, maintaining the emphasis on public housing while dropping any commercial retail spaces. This raises the question: how will these new “zones van biologische waarde” shape the future of urban living in Brussels?

As Eiffage Real Estate Belgium navigates the current permit procedures, the integration of ecological zones signals a progressive step. But what challenges might arise in balancing housing demands with environmental priorities? Let’s explore the implications.

Fast Answer: The Josaphat-site redevelopment in Brussels now includes plans for ecological zones, increasing housing units to 540, with a strong focus on social housing, reflecting Belgium’s drive for sustainable urban growth.

How significant is the addition of “zones van biologische waarde” in urban developments? This move underscores a shift towards greener city planning, aiming to preserve biodiversity amid expansion. Key points include:

Increase from 509 to 540 homes, prioritizing social and public housing.
Removal of retail spaces, focusing solely on residential and ecological goals.
Commitment to creating multiple high-value biological zones to enhance urban biodiversity.
Ongoing permit procedures with limited public commentary, indicating a careful approach.

For Brussels residents, this project represents a balance between urgently needed housing and environmental stewardship, aligning with Belgium’s broader urban sustainability policies.

Looking ahead, will the Josaphat-site become a model for sustainable urban living in Belgium? Stakeholders and locals alike should watch closely as plans evolve, ensuring that ecological ambitions and housing needs progress hand in hand.