Initiative launched to preserve historic cafés across Flanders
Monumentenwacht Vlaanderen and Brouwerij Haacht are joining forces to help preserve historically valuable cafés across Flanders. In the province of Antwerp alone, the initiative covers 11 cafés in Antwerp, Mechelen, Turnhout, Retie and Meerhout.
Through the partnership, dozens of “heritage cafés” owned by the brewery group’s property arm, Co.Br.Ha. Real Estate will receive structural monitoring and maintenance support.
Long-term maintenance
According to Monumentenwacht, beer culture and heritage are often closely intertwined in Flanders, with many Brouwerij Haacht cafés forming part of the region’s architectural heritage. Under the agreement, Monumentenwacht will advise on maintenance, repairs and preventive conservation measures for both protected monuments and buildings listed in the Inventory of Immovable Heritage.
“Many of our pubs have a rich history and are part of the Flemish architectural heritage,” said Nils van Dam, CEO of Co.Br.Ha. Real Estate. “We must cherish that. With Monumentenwacht, we now have a partner that provides us with professional support in this.”
Monumentenwacht works on the principle that preventive maintenance can help avoid more serious damage and costly restoration works later on. Inspectors assess buildings and draw up reports containing recommendations for upkeep and repairs.
Building on earlier restoration projects
The collaboration builds on previous heritage projects involving sites such as the Gempemolen and restoration works at cafés including De Roos, ’t Gouden Mandeken and Baron Ruzette.
“This is exactly what heritage pubs need: not a one-off intervention, but thoughtful long-term follow-up,” said Luk Lemmens, chairman of Monumentenwacht Vlaanderen and heritage deputy for the Province of Antwerp. “We also appreciate that the brewery is taking responsibility in this matter.”
#FlandersNewsService | Burg square with historic buildings, cafés, terraces and visitors in Bruges
©PHOTO WERNER LEROOY
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