Gullegem (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Renovation in Gullegem’s centre begins, relocating the carnival to De Dwarsschuur. Councillor Inge Goemaere opposes cutting a 40-year-old tree, while Alderman Stijn Tant defends the decision.
As reported by VRT News, major renovation work has begun in the centre of Gullegem, a submunicipality of Wevelgem, province of West Flanders, Belgium, marking the start of a 3-year redevelopment project. The existing meeting centre is being demolished to make way for modern infrastructure and renewed public spaces.
According to the organisers, Gullegem’s popular annual carnival party, a vibrant tradition, will need to relocate. Organisers have proposed moving the festivities to the grounds surrounding the event hall De Dwarsschuur. They mentioned that the site is deemed suitable in size and accessibility, but setting up the large carnival tent may require removing one tree from the lawn.
What does tree removal for the carnival mean for Gullegem
The plan to cut down a tree for the carnival has caused a stir. Councillor Inge Goemaere from Meer dan Groen is against it, calling it wrong to cut a healthy tree for a short event. She says the tree is about 40 years old, healthy, and safe. For her and others, losing the tree isn’t worth it, especially for a temporary need.
Meer dan Groen is still against cutting down the tree in Gullegem. They protested on May 1st, 2025, after discussing it at a city council meeting. They chose this day to highlight the importance of green spaces.
Members of Meer dan Groen gathered at the tree to talk to locals and gather signatures for a petition. They emphasised the tree’s value for shade and as a place for people to relax and enjoy themselves. The party views the tree as an integral part of the town’s identity and a symbol of the public space they aim to safeguard.
Alderman Stijn Tant from the CD&V party defended the decision to cut down the tree. He said Meer dan Groen is making it a political fight instead of looking at the bigger plan. Tant believes the location near De Dwarsschuur is best for the carnival, maybe even permanently.
He knows trees will be cut down, including the one he protested, but it’s part of a bigger plan. Alderman Stijn mentioned that a total of 61 trees will be removed, but 110 new trees will be planted. Tant wants people to see the whole project as a necessary change for Gullegem’s town centre.
“A new tree does not have the same impact as a healthy 40-year-old tree,”
Goemaere points out.
“The municipality also encourages residents to plant trees on their own land, but now we think they are sending the wrong message by removing a tree themselves.”
