Pelt (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Pelt plans a major Kerkplein redesign with Dommel River restoration. Alderman Liesbeth Fransen leads the project, with work set for autumn 2026 after council approval in 2025.
As VRT News reported, Kerkplein (Church Square) in Pelt, in the province of Limburg, Belgium, is undergoing a major redevelopment. Alderman for the Environment Liesbeth Fransen (CD&V) said the project aims to reduce paving and add more greenery. She stressed that bringing nature back into the square is an effective way to respond to climate challenges.
What changes will Pelt’s Kerkplein and Dommel River see by 2026?
According to officials, the Dommel River plays a central role in the plan. A lowered bridge will be built. They said that when it rains heavily, the river will be allowed to overflow again. The square will act as a natural buffer to absorb the extra water so flooding can be reduced in nearby areas.
“We want to bring the Dommel closer to the residents again, with a green square where you can almost literally splash around in the water,”
says Fransen.
Lou Boonman’s bronze statue Poermenneke will also be given a new location as part of the redesign of Kerkplein. The artwork, which shows the traditional way of eel fishing, once stood near Marktplein. It will now be moved to the Dommel.
The planning process is now moving forward. The initial design for the square is now available online. An information session will be held at the De Stroming community centre on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, during which people can ask questions.
The design will then be brought to the municipal council for the municipality to seek approval. Kerkplein will be renamed once Marktplein has been renewed. Following the present schedule, the municipality expects to start the Kerkplein construction in the later part of the fall of 2026.
In the 20th century, there were efforts to manage the water level of the Dommel River in Pelt, resulting in its straightening and reduction in size, and then its reduction in the natural flow of water. In recent years, the municipality has focused on climate projects to restore water and green areas. The redevelopment of Marktplein was completed earlier.
In 2024, Pelt joined the cross-border program Weerbaar Dommelland to strengthen the Dommel valley and improve flood safety. The Kerkplein redesign continues this plan with a restored river bend and new buffer zones.
