In the coming decades, the Slachthuis Site in Antwerp (Belgium), named after the location of the former abattoir, will undergo a dramatic transformation. The redevelopment of the entire site is closely connected to the covering of the Antwerp ring road.
The master plan for this 18-hectare project includes the potential development of 240,000 m² that will take place in three phases. The focus is on residential buildings supported by a school, a high-tech campus, student housing and local businesses. Together these will bring a new dynamic into the area.
High-quality buildings designed by internationally renowned architects and young upcoming talents will ensure that the Slachthuis Site becomes a dynamic ecosystem
Leen Quanten, Development Director at Immobel
As an expert in large-scale urban development projects and a member of the public-private partnership (PPP) alongside Triple Living and the City of Antwerp, Immobel is to play a key role in transforming the current wasteland into a new, vibrant neighbourhood.
At the heart of the new Slachthuis Site will be extensive public spaces such as squares, green corridors and parks that will connect existing and new parts of the area. Another focus will be the encouragement of slow mobility; vital for this future low-traffic neighbourhood.
Leen Quanten, Development Director at Immobel, adds: “The Slachthuis Site is a new urban development with a variety of functions. Educational, food and local business opportunities such as start-ups and flex offices will stimulate the local economy. High-quality buildings designed by internationally renowned architects and young upcoming talents will ensure that the Slachthuis Site becomes a dynamic ecosystem, where it is pleasant to live, study, work and relax.”
The first phase of the project will kick-off in autumn 2022 and will focus on the area around the former abattoir halls, which are the backbone of the redevelopment. The eastern hall will be converted into the new high-tech campus of the Antwerp University College for its STEM courses for 3,500 students. The western hall will temporarily be used for supporting functions of the university until its final use for local businesses, R&D facilities, and residences. Around six new residential buildings will be constructed in the coming years. The first phase will have a critical mass of 160,000 m², which represents around 65% of the entire site.
The combination of all these elements will turn the Slachthuis Site into an outstanding, new and dynamic neighbourhood that will re-establish its position as one of the most prestigious locations in Antwerp.