Herentals (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – The Antwerp provincial executive is reviewing an appeal against the ‘t Fabriek project, in Herentals, which plans 56 homes in a former rag factory. Alderman Pascal Van Nueten supports revitalisation, following trends like Kanaal Silo and Scanfil.
As GVA News reported, the Antwerp provincial executive is reviewing an appeal against the building permit for the ‘t Fabriek residential project in Herentals, in the province of Antwerp, Belgium. The project plans to redevelop the former rag factory on Markgravenstraat. The site is owned by a family from Herentals and is being developed with the Ravels contractor, Plum-Van Loon.
Officials mentioned that the plan combines renovation with new construction. It will create 56 residential units within the old industrial building. The inclusion of a 6-story tower has caused concern among residents. These concerns led to an appeal. The provincial executive is examining the case and has asked the city council for advice. The council continues to support the project.
What will Herentals’ t Fabriek project bring to Antwerp’s housing and heritage?
Alderman for Spatial Policy Pascal Van Nueten (N-VA) said the site needs urgent revitalisation. He noted that the industrial building has been neglected for years and its condition has visibly deteriorated.
Van Nueten said the project will improve the neighbourhood and give families the chance to build homes in a historically important area. The project includes an addition along the station side, which will add 3 floors and bring the building to 6 stories.
Antwerp has a growing trend of turning old industrial sites into modern residential areas. One is the Kanaal Silo, built in 1857 and once Europe’s largest malt processor, which was converted into 98 apartments while keeping its historic character. Another case is the former Scanfil factory in Hoboken, which closed in 2006 and is being transformed into the Groen Zuid neighbourhood with about 400 new homes, lofts, and green spaces.
