Houthalen-Helchteren (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Duinenpark Molenheide officially opens in Houthalen-Helchteren, offering revitalized wildlife and walking trails in a unique natural area of Limburg.
The region was changed into a diverse mix of open forest, heathland, and inland dunes.
“Today, the park not only gets a new name, but also a second breath”,
Says mayor Alain Yzermans (Vooruit).
14 hectares of the region have been transformed into a diverse environment of inland dunes, heathland, and open forest in recent years due to a nature investment project that has been actively working on nature restoration.
“The Molenheide wildlife and walking park has been an important place for our residents for decades and is kept open by an enthusiastic team of volunteers,”
Says Mayor Alain Yzermans (Vooruit) of Houthalen-Helchteren, Belgium.
“Today, the park not only gets a new name, but also a second breath. It is a beautiful combination where nature and recreation complement each other perfectly, a place for young and old.”
A sizable play area is also included.
Children were introduced to an exciting walking track with an educational quest during the opening, as well as the newly constructed wild boar meadow and new daring play dunes.
“The inland dunes and heathland are flourishing again, while visitors can playfully discover the richness of this unique part of Limburg,”
Says Laura Olaerts, chair of the Regional Landscape Lage Kempen.
“This project shows how we can restore valuable landscapes together with various partners and open them up to the public.”
How will the park’s transformation affect local wildlife and visitors?
The conversion of Duinenpark from Molenheide It is anticipated that Molenheide’s diverse terrain of heathland, open forest, and inland dunes will benefit both local wildlife and tourists.
By offering appropriate habitats for various species, particularly those suited to dune and heathland ecosystems, the development of diversified habitats for wildlife promotes higher biodiversity. By supporting native plants and animals, this habitat variation fosters ecological resilience.
The park’s restored natural features provide visitors with more varied and picturesque outdoor enjoyment, wildlife observation, and strolling options. The variety of landscapes makes for an interesting and instructive experience that strengthens the bond between humans and the natural world.
All things considered, the park’s makeover brings life to the region, which is advantageous for both conservation initiatives and the general welfare of the population.
