Tienen (Brussels Morning Newspaper): In Tienen, the Council of State stopped plans for a 47.5-hectare industrial area and a 25,000 m shopping zone because of AdemNood’s opposition. Mayor Jonathan Holslag supports using the land for farming.
In January 2022, Tienen approved a plan to build a big industrial area and a shopping zone to help the local economy. They decided the industrial area would be 47.5 hectares, and the shopping zone would be 25,000 square meters. Many people and environmental groups are against the plan because they are worried about losing green spaces, more pollution, and extra traffic. A group called AdemNood is one of the main opponents, saying the projects would harm local nature and not support good city planning.
What impact did AdemNood and the Council of State have on Tienen’s development plans?
AdemNood filed a complaint with the Council of State against the development plans, saying there were problems with the process and risks to the environment. In 2023, the Council of State canceled the plans, stopping the projects. It has been said that this was a big win for local activists and showed how community groups can make a difference in city planning.
The new city council has confirmed that the development plans are canceled and the land will be used for farming. They are looking for a new site closer to the E40 for companies that create local jobs, especially in the agri-food sector. The action group AdemNood is pleased with this decision, stating it aligns with their goals. Mayor Jonathan Holslag said they will focus on using existing land better before exploring new areas and will work with everyone to create a plan for business parks.
