Bruges
Evidenced by its historic city centre, which has been designated a UNESCO world heritage site, Bruges is one of Europe’s best-preserved cities, known for its renowned city views and small, hidden, corners.
About
To keep its unique architectural history alive, Burges is preparing for a climate neutral and climate robust future. A signatory of the Covenant of Mayors since 2015, the City of Bruges aims to reduce local CO₂ emissions and become more climate-resilient. By 2050, Bruges wants to be climate neutral and climate resilient. Therefore a climate plan 2030 was designed in 2022. The climate plan consists of 7 guidelines (‘7 bridges’) and more than 200 actions to reach the goal of 49% CO2 reduction as an intermediate step to become climate neutral in 2050.
In Re-Value, Bruges will investigate how the ambitious plans the city has for its ‘Kaaidistrict’ (Quay District) can transform the currently monofunctional and fully paved area to a sustainable, climate neutral and climate resilient city-district to serve as inspiration for other parts of the city and outside of it. Through extensive collaborations, Bruges aims to develop innovative strategies encompassing quality of life, urban mobility, climate policies, new development approaches, and enhanced participation among public, private stakeholders and less typical stakeholders such as creative organisations and citizens.
Specifically, the interventions will focus on taking actions identified in a concept study for the Kaaidistrict’ from 2022. This vision aims to transform the area from what’s today dominated by industry, or the legacy of industry, into a neighbourhood leaving room for retail sale, food vendors and local artisans, combined with living and relaxation.
In order to achieve the level of ambition for the quay district, Bruges will explore new strategies in the field of spatial policy, climate policy, vision development and collaboration between the public and private sector. The development of this new urban district can only be realised by and with all stakeholders: owners, developers, users, residents, the local Harbour and all government authorities involved. This project in the Kaaidistrict will hopefully be a showcase of how the climate ambitions can be anchored in the spatial instruments and toolbox.
Learn more on the local Kaaidistrict website.
Key Numbers
5
Local partners supporting Re-Value
118,500
Population
Timeline
Tactical Urbanism in Action: Willow Tunnels and Wooden Hearts Bring Life to the Kaaidistrict
Bruges’ Kaaidistrict is undergoing a hands-on transformation as part of the Re-Value project. Over the past weeks, local residents—the Kaaiklappers—have stepped...
Industrial Heritage Case Studies
Over 45 Re-Value project partners - mostly practitioners from Re-Value Cities - met in Rijeka, Croatia, on 29-30 October 2024, for a Re-Value Capacity Development...
Re-Value Innovation Cycles Experience-based Report 2
This report highlights how Re-Value's three Innovation Cycles are helping waterfront cities achieve climate neutrality while fostering inclusivity, beauty, and sustainability....
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