Jabbeke (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Starting February 10, 2025, Jabbeke will pause large residential projects for 18 months to address concerns over rapid apartment growth. Alderman Piet Berton (N-VA) aims to create new building rules to preserve the town’s style and living conditions.
The Jabbeke local government has decided to stop larger residential building projects started on February 10, 2025. This pause will last for up to 18 months. During this time, officials will create a plan for future developments. They are worried about the fast rise in apartment buildings over the last 12 years.
Alderman Piet Berton (N-VA) called this a “wave of apartmentisation.”He mentioned that many new buildings have changed the look of Jabbeke’s villages. This has raised concerns about their appearance and how they affect residents’ lives. The government thinks this pause is necessary to ensure future projects match the town’s style and improve living conditions.
Will Jabbeke’s new building rules preserve its charm?
During the construction pause, the local government will create new rules for buildings. According to officials, these rules will help new and renovated buildings fit in with the area. They want to make sure there is enough space, green areas, and services for people. The government wants to avoid problems like overcrowding and fewer green spaces. The details of the new rules are still being worked on.
Alderman Piet Berton (N-VA) said:
“We are concerned about the visual quality and quality of life in our villages. Many apartment buildings and developments have been added in the last 12 years.”
During the pause in Jabbeke, local officials will not give new permits for big housing projects. This includes apartment buildings and dividing land into smaller lots. Developers must wait about 18 months to start these projects. Officials mentioned that the pause aims to control the quick growth of apartments that have changed the villages. The local government wants to make clear rules for future buildings.
“That does not mean that no more construction or renovations are allowed. The construction, renovation or reconstruction of single-family homes without a change in the number of residential units remains possible,”
Alderman Piet Berton (N-VA) says.
