Temporary use transforms old factory site into community space

Sluizeken-Tolhuis-Ham is one of the most densely populated and diverse neighbourhoods in Ghent. Around 80 per cent of the area is paved and there is too little space for people to meet. A new neighbourhood park on the site of a long-abandoned factory is set to bring extra dynamism and breathing space to the neighbourhood.

From tea to table tennis

Infrastructure works are scheduled to start in 2027. In the meantime, the City of Ghent and the non-profit organisation Ocup are already turning it into a place where local residents feel at home. Every Wednesday, they can visit the temporary ‘Buurtpark Hãm’ for a cup of coffee or tea, a chat or a game of panna or table tennis. Their own ideas, such as a rose garden or a vegetable garden, can also be incorporated.

Together with many partners, Ocup regularly organises small events: from film screenings and a giveaway shop to parkour or jiu-jitsu initiations. In this way, they appeal to as many people from the neighbourhood as possible.

Ideas for the future

The temporary use of the site is an ideal prelude to the future park. Activities that are currently being set up in collaboration with local residents are providing valuable ideas for its future use. At the same time, Buurtpark Hãm offers great opportunities to introduce visitors to the importance of desealing and greening. This should inspire them to get involved themselves.

Follow the Instagram and Facebook pages of Buurtpark Hãm to stay up to date.

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