Ardooie (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Ardooie will invest €20 million to improve roads, childcare, and city infrastructure. Mayor Véronique Buck (Group 82) ensures low taxes, a new driveway tax, and resident-focused practical projects.
As VRT News reported, Ardooie, in the province of West Flanders, Belgium, will invest £20 million in the coming years to improve services for its residents. Mayor Véronique Buck of Group 82 said the municipality will focus on projects that have a real impact on daily life.
“We will not spend on prestige projects,”
she said.
“Every investment must be practical and visible for citizens.”
How will Ardooie’s €20M investment improve roads, childcare, and city life?
According to officials, road improvements are a top priority in the investment plan. Mayor Buck said these works are important for both current needs and the town’s future. Despite the unpredictable funding, the municipality is committed to projects that citizens will notice in their daily routines.
“Our bike paths need to be safer and our sidewalks need to be more accessible, because that’s a real problem in some places. But we’re also committed to a master plan for our city center.
We’re developing a plan for the redevelopment of Markplein and Polenplein together with residents and businesses. We want more greenery and shade, space for patios and events, as well as sufficient parking for businesses and visitors,”
Mayor Buck said.
Mayor Véronique Buck said,
“We are not increasing the supplementary personal income tax or the property tax surcharge.”
“With a personal income tax rate of 6% and 598 surcharges, our rates remain among the lowest in the region and even in Flanders.”
The municipality also plans to expand childcare places for babies and toddlers, giving families more support and options close to home.
“We currently have fewer than the Flemish average. This childcare is essential for better balancing work and family life. Currently, we’re not receiving any Flemish support for this, so we have to explore how we can implement it.”
A new tax will be introduced specifically for driveway renovations. The tax will help fund improvements to private access roads and other related works.
“In some neighbourhoods, these aren’t owned by the homeowners themselves, but are part of the public domain,”
Buck explains.
“From now on, we’ll charge the owner for repairs to these front gardens and driveways. After all, these are works that only benefit the tenant or owner.”
A multi-year plan shows the priorities and future direction of a city or municipality. It explains how money will be spent and highlights the projects that the administration considers most important. The plan turns political and administrative agreements into concrete actions. It gives residents a clear picture of the initiatives that will shape the community in the coming years.
The plan also serves as the legal framework for municipal finances. It forms the basis for all income, spending, and investments. This ensures transparency and accountability in how public funds are used. Officials use the plan to prioritise essential services, infrastructure, and development projects while maintaining careful financial management.
