Gent‘s Sint-Bernadettewijk to Undergo Transformation with 250 New Homes, Car-free Design
GENT, BELGIUM - Plans are underway to revitalize the Sint-Bernadettewijk neighborhood in Gent, replacing the area currently known locally as “Schimmelwijk” with 250 new, energy-efficient homes and increased green spaces. The project, spearheaded by HomePunt Gent, aims to create a livable, fossil-free community with completion slated for 2030.
The new neighborhood will comprise 85 houses with gardens, 93 apartments, and 72 stacking houses - buildings featuring separate entrances for each dwelling. Housing options will cater to diverse needs, including families with children, single individuals, and couples.
Investments will also focus on public space improvements, including renovations to the squares surrounding the church and school, the addition of greenery along the railway, and the creation of a “Buurtplein” for community events. A key feature of the redevelopment is a car-free environment, supported by a neighborhood supermarket and a medical center to fulfill daily needs. Space will also be allocated for a handyman service.
“With this project we want to do more than build homes,” stated Schepen van Wonen Filip Watteeuw (Groen). “We want to make a livable neighborhood: fully fossil-free, with underground parking garages, communal bicycle parking facilities, and lots of space for playing, meeting and relaxing. This way Sint-Bernadette is once again getting the warmth of a real neighborhood,but with the quality and sustainability that are needed today.”
HomePunt Gent is currently applying for the necesary environmental permits, with contractor appointments expected in 2025.Infrastructure and construction are projected to begin in 2027. An information fair regarding the project was held Wednesday at primary school Het Goentwiel.
