Bruges (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Bruges has expanded its iconic green city wall, the Brugse Vesten, by 1,100 square meters, adding walking paths and lush greenery to boost urban livability.
A few years ago, the city council purchased a number of buildings along the Vesten, which have since been replaced with new pedestrian pathways and a lot of green space.
A green lung of Bruges, the Brugse Vesten is a pleasant 7-kilometer walk or bike ride. With almost 3,000 trees and a total area of 26 hectares, it is by far the biggest park in the city. One more component has now been added.
“Among other things, extra walking paths were laid out and benches were placed. And 416 shrubs, 84 bushes and a few new high-stemmed trees were planted,”
says alderman for Public Domain Franky Demon (CD&V).
“At the end of May, another 1,506 perennials will be added and in the autumn another 5,400 flower bulbs will be added.”
In 2021, the city council purchased buildings that bordered the Boninvest in order to expand the Vesten. The site was purchased by the city for 2.4 million euros from the federal government.
“Some of the buildings were rented out for a long time,”
says Pieter Marechal (CD&V), alderman for Heritage.
“After the lease expires in 2027, the demolition of the complex at Boninvest 1 is planned. This will clear the way for further greening of the site and an even stronger connection with the historic fortified landscape of Bruges.”
The ancient Jules Dhoedt malthouse’s engine room is all that’s left. It has been renovated and brought back to its previous splendor.
“This is protected heritage,”
Marechal added.
“Thanks to the restoration and repairs, such as the renewal of the gutters and historical vaults, this building will once again have a place as a characterful element in the new green whole.”
In August, the public should be able to enter the new Vesten area.
How will the new green pathways on Bruges’ city wall enhance urban biodiversity?
The addition expands the area of permeable, plant-friendly surfaces that can support a range of native and exotic plant species by adding 1,100 square meters of greenery and walking trails. This increases local biodiversity by giving insects, birds, and small animals food and shelter.
Existing green areas along the city wall are connected by the green walkways, which serve as “stepping stones” or ecological corridors. Pollinators, such as bees, insects, and birds, can travel more freely between habitats thanks to this connectedness, which is essential for maintaining a variety of urban wildlife populations.
More vegetation improves soil quality, lowers the effects of urban heat islands, and regulates temperature, all of which make it easier for a variety of species to flourish.
