Brussels' Palace of Justice renovation likely to cost over €600 million
The total cost of renovating the Palace of Justice in Brussels is likely to exceed 600 million euros, according to figures from federal Buildings Administration minister Vanessa Matz. Costs for the long-running project have risen sharply since the first scaffolding was erected in 1984.
Earlier estimates suggested that the renovation of the façades alone would cost around 128 million euros. According to opposition member Britt Huybrechts, who requested the figures, the interior works are estimated at roughly 480 million euros. These figures still need to be confirmed by more detailed studies.
The Palace of Justice is a protected heritage site that is more than 140 years old, making the restoration particularly complex and labour-intensive. The fact that the building remains in use during the works also creates significant logistical and practical challenges.
26,000 square metres
The building was designed by Belgian architect Joseph Poelaert and completed in 1883. At the time, it was the largest building in Europe, covering an area of 26,000 square metres. Since 1984 it has been surrounded by scaffolding after engineers discovered cracks in the structure that required extensive repairs.
The scaffolding is now gradually being removed as the façade restoration progresses. The works are being carried out in four phases. The first phase began in 2023, and the final phase is currently expected to be completed in 2035, although the timeline could still change.
When the interior renovation will start, is not yet known. Matz, who oversees the Belgian Buildings Agency, said it is too early to comment on a timetable and therefore also on the overall completion date of the project.
© BELGA PHOTO ERIC LALMAND
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