Brief description of site and current use
The city of Antwerp
has a diverse character. It is known for its internationally important harbour
and petrochemical facilities, as well as being a centre for the diamond trade.
At the same time the city includes a great amount of underused industrial and
harbour space, as well as high density residential areas and little public
green space. Spoor Noord and the surrounding districts are similar: they have a
high population density and problems of social deprivation and isolation. One
of the biggest challenges in Spoor Noord is the integration of migrants into
the resident community. In addition, the area is characterised by a chaotic
traffic situation. There is a lot of rat-run traffic (the most important
junction, De Schijnpoort, forms an important barrier for smooth traffic flow
from and to the city) and public transport services are poor. In addition, the
districts have an undersupply of green areas and public open spaces, and few
sport, recreation and cultural facilities.
The aim of the municipality is
to attract investment in residential and commercial land, and generate public
support for the on-going regeneration process. In this situation the great
advantage of Spoor Noord is the amount of open land available for public use.
According to a survey of local residents, green and open areas, space and light
were identified as the main priorities of the regeneration process. The urban
landscape park project in the heart of Spoor Noord is intended as a catalyst
for new development. It will help to create a new urban structure, bringing the
air back into the densely developed north of the city. The park is the starting
point for a wider regeneration process.
