Depaving and greening
Moermanpark: From Grey to Green-Blue
What was once a paint factory and later a large parking lot has now been transformed into a beautiful park in the heart of Roeselare. This project demonstrates how depaving and greening contribute to climate adaptation and quality of life.
Sweco was responsible for the technical development of the design and the supervision during execution. OMGEVING handled the design and coordination of the implementation.
- Client
- City of Roeselare
- Location
- Roeselare
- Expertise
- Technical development of the design and supervision during execution
- Partner
- OMGEVING
- Photos
- © Stad Roeselare
A grey area of nearly one hectare has been converted into a green and permeable space, using swales, permeable paving, and trees to improve water infiltration and provide cooling. The result is a meeting place with wooden pavilions and play zones—a textbook example of the building shift. With this, the city has taken a significant step toward sustainable urban development, without compromising accessibility and mobility.
Green-Blue Lung
This redevelopment offers a climate-adaptive space full of opportunities for relaxation, sports, and play. The parking lot has been transformed into an expansive cooling zone—a green-blue lung that seamlessly connects to the Ronde Kom and the Kleine Bassin, just a stone’s throw from the city’s shopping heart. People of all ages will find something to enjoy in the park: a place to meet, cool down, or simply rest. The park will also be easily accessible for people with disabilities.
The two adjacent streets, Teerlingstraat and Kleine-Bassinstraat, have been equipped with an innovative rainwater management system, where water is collected in swales for infiltration. These water buffers help manage heavy rainfall and make it easier to cope with longer dry periods. The design includes the construction of three bridges spanning these swales. Additionally, a lively play area is being created, complemented by event pavilions. The entire space is framed by an abundance of trees and perennials, creating a green and attractive environment.
Water-Resilient Through Depaving
The former parking lot has undergone a green transformation. All hard surfaces have been removed, bringing Roeselare a big step closer to becoming a heat-resilient city. Since the park lies in the historical bed of the Sint-Amandsbeek, it will also function like a sponge—absorbing water during heavy rainfall and bridging longer dry periods. By creating space for water infiltration and buffering, the resilience of the water system is increased.
Climate-Resilient and Biodiverse
The new park is a true home for urban flora and fauna, offering ecological value to the city of Roeselare. In fact, 80% of the area is fully green, while 20% consists of permeable paths. The park features 130 trees, which benefit biodiversity and provide oxygen and clean air in the heart of this central city.
