Mechelen (Brussels Morning):The local administration is addressing recent damage to sports facilities by hiring student workers to supervise the sites and ensure proper respectful use. They are also planning to create more permanent high-quality artificial grass fields to better meet the recreational needs of local youth.
Some young people damaged things at the Bosveld site like the fence wiring, a goalpost and a dugout. Mohamed Akaychouch from Samen Vooruit feels sorry about what happened and understands how it affects the sports facilities. He says these places are crucial for the community as they offer spaces for fun activities and sports which are important for the well-being of local young people. Akaychouch mentioned that the young people didn’t mean to cause harm they were just there to play. He understands how important these spaces are for young people to have fun and believes it’s essential to keep them in good shape.
What measures is the local administration taking to protect and supervise sports facilities?
The local administration has hired student workers to watch over the fields and make sure everything is used correctly. These students will be there from Monday to the end of August to prevent more damage and keep the area safe for everyone. By having student workers the administration wants to have friendly people in charge to supervise the sports complexes. Young people can use the artificial grass fields at Bosveld site in Mechelen and the Calenberg Sports Complex in Diegem on different days. In Mechelen the fields are open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 12 pm to 8 pm. In Diegem, the Calenberg Sports Complex is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the same times. This schedule helps make sure the facilities are available while being properly supervised and maintained.
It has been said that having student workers there not only protects the sports facilities but also gives young people organized and supervised chances to have fun. The administration wants to encourage respectful use of the fields by having these students around. They care about the community and are taking steps to keep the recreational spaces in good condition.
What long-term solutions is the local administration pursuing to expand youth access to high-quality artificial turf fields?
The alderman stressed the importance of finding a long-term solution for young people who want to play on artificial grass, which is currently limited to club football fields. To overcome this limitation there are plans to set up permanent top-notch artificial grass fields in the community. They are also seeking help from the Jan Vertonghen Foundation to create spaces where youngsters can enjoy recreational activities. By creating these special fields the initiative not only solves the current access issue but also encourages healthier lifestyles and more sports involvement among local youth. The project fits with the bigger aim of improving community facilities and bringing people together through sports.They said that its a forward-thinking way to meet recreational needs by working with partners for the best community outcomes. The goal is to offer a long-lasting solution that makes young residents’ lives better and adds to the overall health and energy of the area.
