Leopoldsburg (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Vandals damaged the vacant Carmelite convent in Leopoldsburg, causing €40k–€60k in damage. Mayor Wouter Beke backs plans for 67 homes after June’s permit, hoping work stops break-ins.
As VRT News reported, vandals broke into the old Carmelite convent in the centre of Leopoldsburg, a municipality in the province of Limburg, Belgium, again and caused a lot of damage. The building has been empty for many years and has been fenced off after earlier problems, but that did not stop people from getting inside.
Windows with stained glass were smashed, wooden doors were broken, a marble railing was pushed over, and fire extinguishers were sprayed throughout the rooms. The damage is thought to cost between €40,000 and €60,000, which is another blow for the developer who wants to turn the site into 62 homes. Each time a break-in or act of vandalism happens, the police call the developer to secure the building again.
What will the renovation of Leopoldsburg’s Carmelite convent bring?
The old Carmelite convent in Leopoldsburg has been empty for more than 10 years and keeps drawing vandals. Mayor Wouter Beke called the latest break-in “deliberate destruction” and said the town is helping police as they look for those responsible.
Officials mentioned that there are plans to restore part of the convent and build new homes, but the constant damage may slow the work. Police are collecting clues and asking people to share anything they know, while locals hope stronger action will finally protect the site.
In June 2025, the town of Leopoldsburg gave approval to fix up the old Carmelite monastery and build new homes on the land. The permit allows the historic building to be restored and new housing to be added around it.
People can still file an appeal with the Council for Permit Disputes until August 10, 2025. The mayor said that once that date passes and any complaints are handled, work can start and the site can finally be made safe from more vandalism.
The plan for the old Carmelite monastery will turn the building into 14 homes, and 53 more apartments will be built around it, making 67 in total. Local leaders see the work as an important step to refresh the centre of Leopoldsburg and protect the long-empty site from more harm.
