Brussels, Belgium – November 26, 2025 — Brussels City Council has outlined an ambitious vision for the historic Gare du Midi district, revealing a comprehensive proposal to transform the area into a pioneering pilot zone for climate-neutral housing. The initiative, announced on Tuesday, targets the completion of 500 sustainable residential units by the end of 2028, marking a significant stride in the city’s ongoing commitment to environmental innovation and urban revitalisation.
The proposal, set for formal consideration in November 2025, places the Gare du Midi district at the forefront of Brussels’ efforts to achieve carbon neutrality and deliver affordable, future-proof homes. The plan is designed to align with the city’s broader climate objectives, including a 55% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and full carbon neutrality by 2050.
Located at the crossroads of Saint-Gilles, Anderlecht, and the city centre, the Gare du Midi area has long been recognised as a strategic urban hub. The new project seeks to harness this potential by integrating sustainable housing with green public spaces, modern infrastructure, and enhanced connectivity to the surrounding neighbourhoods. City officials describe the district as an “ideal canvas” for demonstrating how climate-conscious urban planning can deliver both social and environmental benefits.
Deputy Mayor for Urban Development, Sophie Van der Linden, emphasised the transformative nature of the proposal: “This is an opportunity to reimagine Gare du Midi as a vibrant, inclusive, and environmentally responsible neighbourhood. Our goal is to create homes that are not only energy-efficient but also accessible to a diverse range of residents.”
The 500-unit target will be achieved through a phased approach, with construction scheduled to begin in late 2026 following a period of public consultation and detailed design. The housing mix will include a combination of subsidised units for middle-income families, co-living spaces, and apartments designed to accommodate a variety of household sizes. Each unit will be constructed to passive or zero-energy standards, incorporating advanced insulation, triple glazing, and renewable energy systems such as rooftop solar panels and geothermal heating.
In addition to the residential component, the plan calls for the creation of over 3,000 square metres of shared green space, including community gardens, play areas, and pedestrian-friendly pathways. These features are intended to foster social cohesion and promote active lifestyles, while also supporting local biodiversity and improving rainwater management. The district will be equipped with secure bicycle storage, electric vehicle charging stations, and easy access to public transport, reinforcing Brussels’ commitment to sustainable mobility.
Collaboration with local stakeholders is central to the project’s ethos. Citydev.brussels, the regional development agency, will play a leading role in coordinating the initiative, working in partnership with private developers, community groups, and environmental experts. The council has pledged to maintain an open dialogue with residents throughout the planning and construction process, ensuring that local voices help shape the district’s future.
Benjamin Cadranel, CEO of citydev.brussels, highlighted the importance of community engagement: “We are committed to building not just homes, but a neighbourhood that reflects the aspirations of its residents. By involving the community at every stage, we can ensure that the Gare du Midi district becomes a model for sustainable urban living.”
The proposal also includes a commitment to economic inclusion, with plans for ground-floor retail spaces, flexible work hubs, and social facilities that will serve both new and existing residents. Urban development charges generated by the project will be reinvested in local infrastructure, supporting improvements to roads, public spaces, and essential services.
Environmental certification will be a key benchmark for the project’s success. The council has set its sights on achieving BREEAM Outstanding and WELL Platinum ratings for the new buildings, recognising excellence in sustainability, health, and wellbeing. Innovative features such as permeable paving, green roofs, and smart energy management systems will be integrated throughout the development.
Local leaders and urban planners have expressed optimism about the proposal’s potential to catalyse positive change in the Gare du Midi district. The area, once marked by underused land and fragmented public spaces, is poised to become a showcase for Brussels’ climate ambitions and a welcoming home for a new generation of residents.
The council’s climate-neutral housing initiative is expected to serve as a blueprint for similar projects across the city, demonstrating how thoughtful design, community partnership, and environmental stewardship can drive urban renewal. As Brussels prepares to submit the proposal for public review in November 2025, anticipation is building for a project that promises to set new standards in sustainable city living.
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Image Credit: Photo by kommumikation on Unsplash
