{"id":31221,"date":"2023-12-05T14:58:49","date_gmt":"2023-12-05T13:58:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.swecobelgium.be\/blog\/from-grey-to-green-transformation-of-the-drongenplein-in-ghent\/"},"modified":"2025-03-18T08:46:33","modified_gmt":"2025-03-18T07:46:33","slug":"from-grey-to-green-transformation-of-the-drongenplein-in-ghent","status":"publish","type":"blog","link":"https:\/\/www.swecobelgium.be\/en\/news\/from-grey-to-green-transformation-of-the-drongenplein-in-ghent\/","title":{"rendered":"From grey to green: transformation of the Drongenplein in Ghent"},"content":{"rendered":"
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The Drongenplein in Ghent has emerged as a captivating green space full of meeting spots and recreational items. The redesign of the square is the outcome of a design study that aimed to honor the location’s functionality and aesthetic expectations. Sweco collaborated on all the sub facets of this multidisciplinary project.<\/strong><\/p>\n

A glimpse of history<\/h2>\n

Drongenplein has been thoughtfully redesigned to become a vibrant center that accommodates traders, preserves cultural heritage, and offers moments of leisure. The area by the trees used to be a car park and also served as a marketplace and fairground. These functions may remain in the new design, which includes a gravel lawn to preserve the square’s functionality.<\/p>\n

At the heart of this transformation lies the Old Abbey of Drongen, its square carefully redesigned to embrace and enhance its lush charm: a protected row of lime trees steals the spotlight. The square, now decorated with a glass shelter, numerous seating areas, and a permanent stage, becomes a cultural hub\u2014a space where heritage and contemporary vibrancy come together.<\/p>\n

Land meets water<\/h2>\n

But this revitalization isn’t confined to land. As part of the project, the Belgian army disassembled the temporary bridge after 6 years, unveiling the picturesque waterfront again. A new viewing platform near the Lys river offers a stunning view while a wooden play area is available for kids and adults alike. For those who like to be near the water, the Old Abbey side features a new staircase that leads to the water’s edge.<\/p>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n

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Nature and culture side by side<\/h2>\n

Drongenplein is not just an ordinary square; it is a well-balanced combination of nature, culture, and history in the process of redevelopment. This revitalized space is a perfect example of where nature and culture meet, and every turn is an opportunity to discover a story of community spirit and transformation.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n

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