In Ostend, part of the restored Royal Galleries has opened to great public interest. The famous Galleries, situated on either side of the Thermae Palace Hotel, had been left to fall into disrepair for a long time and for years even had to be shored up due to the risk of collapse.
The Royal Galleries were built as a covered promenade in 1902 on the orders of King Leopold II. During the Belle Époque, the town’s wealthiest residents could stroll here, sheltered from sun and rain. Ostend Mayor John Crombez wishes to restore that historic custom, but then for all.
“The entire section along the seafront has been restored and is permanently open to the public.
Crombez sees the Galleries as a major attraction with wide appeal. “People come from West Flanders Province, Flanders and all over Belgium. So this project extends far beyond Ostend.”
Contractor Artes Woudenberg completed the work in 10 months. Project manager Thijs Jonckheere describes it as a race against the clock. “We faced a major challenge in terms of structural stability, roofing, flooring and joinery. Thanks to a fantastic team of skilled tradespeople and constructive collaboration with all our partners, we succeeded in our endeavour.”
Ostend residents react with sheer delight
There is also great joy amongst the people of Ostend now the Galleries have been renovated. Jan has a beach hut in the vicinity and has been following the work closely and is enthusiastic, but also has some concerns. “I do hope it remains in such good condition. It would be good if cameras were installed to monitor everything closely.”
Nadine Bovit, another beach hut tenant, followed the entire process closely. “The Galleries have made great progress; they were in a dreadful state. They just kept deteriorating, but now it’s really been worth the effort. I’m so happy.”
Rik, who was present as a historical extra in Belle Époque style, is pleased, but points out what is still missing. “I think the restoration has been very successful. I do think there’s still a lot of work to be done, though, because normally the Galleries should run all the way from the equestrian statue of Leopold II to the Wellington racecourse.”
He also emphasises the importance of accessibility. “It’s excellent that it’s accessible again. It’s important that people can sit on the benches again, stroll along and quietly gaze out at the sea.”