Herentals (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Herentals will not build an underground parking garage under the new city hall due to a lack of funding. The city plans to explore above-ground parking options elsewhere.
As VRT News reported, Herentals, in the province of Antwerp, Belgium, will no longer build an underground parking garage under its new city hall.
“It was a difficult exercise,”
says Mayor Jan Bertels (Vooruit).
“We want to ensure that our city improves for everyone. That’s why we’re investing €50 million this legislative term.”
What are Herentals’ plans for the new city hall and €50 million investments?
Officials said a cost-benefit study showed the garage would be too expensive and difficult to construct. The project has been scaled back to focus on its main features. The updated plans include 2 multipurpose halls and a party hall. Architects will continue to refine the design over the next few years. Once the plans are finalised, the city will apply for an environmental permit. Construction is expected to begin in 2027.
“We are going to reduce the city hall to its essence: 2 multipurpose rooms and a party hall.”
Jan Bertels (Vooruit), mayor of Herentals
Visitors and residents can still park for free along the Herentals inner ring road. Streets with available parking include Augustinentaan, Belgielaan, and Rik Van Looylaan. The municipality said the revised city hall will remain functional and practical despite removing the underground garage.
“We will continue to explore the possibility of creating additional above-ground parking,”
said the mayor.
Herentals has included several new investments in its multi-year budget. The Hummeltjeshof childcare centre will get a new building. The number of places will increase from 32 to 54, giving more children access to care and better facilities. Plans for an intermunicipal swimming pool and an ice rink will also go ahead.
The city will also invest in the maintenance and upgrading of pedestrian and cycling paths. The redevelopment of the City Park has been postponed, delaying planned upgrades to the green space. To pay for all these projects, Herentals will borrow €25 million. City officials said the budget will secure the funds needed to complete the planned investments while supporting the needs of residents in the coming years.
“We’re doing this to avoid passing on the burden to future generations,”
says Mayor Bertels.
“There will be a small increase in the property tax surcharge, from €975 to €995. People with a very high cadastral income will pay a little more.”
The Town Hall was originally constructed in the 15th century. The building was reconstructed from sandstone after a fire in 1534 caused extensive damage to the original structure. The Belfry is included among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
In 1976, the municipality of Herentals was formed from several neighbouring villages – including Morkhoven and Noorderwijk. In the last few years, the municipality has focused on improving the facilities available for the local community. As a result, on March 28, 2023, the council approved plans to build a new regional indoor swimming pool and indoor ice skating rink at Netepark.
