Brussels’ North District set for transformation through Nor.Bruxsels project

Brussels’ North District is set for a transformation following the recently submitted planning application for four new towers next to the Brussels North station, as part of the Nor.Bruxsels project. The aim is to make the district more attractive after office hours and as a place for people to live.

The project on the site of the former CCN building at the Brussels North station, which has since been largely demolished, comprises four new towers between 50 and 105 m high. Two towers will house apartments, whilst the other two will contain office space or other facilities. In total, 518 homes are planned, along with over 80,000 m² of new office and commercial space, 6,487 m² of shops and businesses, and 751 parking spaces.

AG Real Estate and Atenor, who are responsible for the project, had to amend an earlier version of the planning application. Various urban movements had lodged objections to the previous application. The current public consultation runs until 2 June. The consultation committee, comprising representatives from the municipality and the region, will meet on 15 June.

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Brussels’ Chief Architect Lisa De Visscher has welcomed the news. According to her, “the new project rectifies a number of past mistakes by making the original façade of the North Station visible and accessible again and breathing new life into the neighbourhood with the creation of a functional mobility hub with high-quality public space, shops and public amenities.” She does, however, advocate for the creation of social housing within part of the residential towers.

The competent Brussels state secretary, Audrey Henry, is also satisfied. “The neighbourhood, formerly enclosed and dominated by major thoroughfares and closed façades, is now opening up. The new projects aim to redraw the Brussels skyline and create new perspectives, particularly between Tour & Taxis and Schaerbeek. It is not just a view or a street that is changing, but an entire district. Alongside the construction of new towers, a genuine project of urban diversity is taking shape.”

^{Brussels’ North District © PHOTO BELPRESS}