After four years of renovation, Vorst Park in the south of Brussels has been restored to its 1950s appearance. The historic paths, benches, canopies and lighting have been restored to their former glory, and the chalet has been completely renovated. It will soon be given a new lease of life as a food outlet, for which a new operator is being sought.
All the paths in the park have been renewed and redrawn based on historical plans. A new path winds around the hill and two sets of steps have been added.
The street furniture has also been refurbished. Most of the historic benches, three canopies, lampposts and litter bins have been restored or replaced.
“The Park of Vorst is the garden for those who don’t have one,” says mayor Charles Spapens. “We are delighted that the renovation is nearing completion, with an upgrade of the heritage, an increase in the number of trees, and water management that will reduce flooding in the lower part of the municipality.”
The chalet in the centre of the park has been completely renovated. A new catering area has been built inside but is not yet open. The municipality is looking for an operator, and will also grant the right to set up a guinguette or temporary bar in the summer.
There is a terrace around the chalet with restored cast iron street lamps, as in historical photos. Public toilets are now available in the chalet, and there is new lighting along the main paths to improve safety. A drinking fountain has been installed at the foot of the park.
The Park of Vorst is the garden for those who don’t have one
Significant investments were also made in environmental and water management. The paths were laid using largely water-permeable materials. Trees and shrubs were pruned, new plants were added and the large lawns were fertilised.
Two large infiltration zones and a drainage network ensure sustainable water management. Rainwater can be collected on a grassy area and gradually infiltrate, creating a temporary water table in wet weather.
The works were carried out by Beliris with the municipality of Vorst and cost a total of €10 million.