Parking becomes green-blue lung

From parking to park: the Moermanpark in Roeselare will become the lever to make the city more climate-resistant and water-robust. By the summer of 2024, we will transform this former asphalt jungle into a refreshing city park. Sweco is responsible for the technical elaboration of the design and the supervision of its execution. OMGEVING is in charge of the design and coordination of the execution.

Van parking tot park: het Moermanpark in Roeselare wordt de hefboom om de stad meer klimaatbestendig en waterrobuust te maken.

This redevelopment provides a climate-adaptive space full of opportunities for relaxation, sports, and play. The parking area will be transformed into an expansive cool zone, a green-blue lung that seamlessly connects to the Ronde Kom and the Kleine Bassin, just a stone’s throw away from the city’s shopping heart. Both young and old will find something to their liking in the park: for meeting, seeking coolness, or just resting. The park will also be easily accessible for people with disabilities.

The two side streets will receive an innovative rainwater management system that captures water in wadis for infiltration. The design includes the construction of three bridges that will span these wadis. In addition, a lively play area will be created, complemented by event pavilions. The whole is framed by an abundance of trees and perennial plants, creating a green and attractive environment.

De-paving for maximum sponge effect

The former parking area has undergone a green transformation. All the paving has been removed, bringing Roeselare closer to becoming a heat-resistant city. Since the park is located in the historic bed of the Sint-Amandsbeek, it will also act like a sponge. A sponge that absorbs water during heavy rainfall and can bridge longer periods of drought. By providing space for water infiltration and buffering, we increase the resilience of the water system.

Ecological hotspot

The new park will truly become a home for urban fauna and flora. It offers ecological added value for the city of Roeselare. 80% of the surface will be completely green, while 20% will consist of water-permeable paths. The park itself will contain more than 130 trees. This benefits biodiversity and provides oxygen and healthy air in the heart of this central city.