BRUSSELS — One of Brussels’ most beloved green spaces, Forest Park, has reopened to the public following a four-year renovation project that restored its historic features while addressing modern environmental needs.
The €10 million revamp, which began in 2021 and was plagued by delays and budget overruns, has now been completed, bringing new life to the 13-hectare heritage site.
The park, located on the border of the Forest and Saint-Gilles municipalities, had not seen major renovations in over 70 years. Officials hailed the transformation as a return to its 1950s charm, combined with contemporary improvements for public use and climate resilience.
“Forest Park is a garden for those who don’t have one,” said Forest Mayor Charles Spapens and Councillor for Green Spaces Alain Mugabo. “We are delighted that its renovation is nearing completion, with the heritage being enhanced, the number of trees increased, and water management improved to reduce flooding in the lower part of the municipality.”
The renovation included a wide range of infrastructure upgrades and landscaping efforts. The historic chalet at the heart of the park has been restored and now houses a catering area and concierge service, complete with welcoming terraces and refurbished cast iron lampposts that evoke the park’s original ambiance.
One of the most notable improvements is in water management. Two new infiltration basins have been added to prevent erosion and manage heavy rainfall, addressing a long-standing issue of flooding that previously affected the lower parts of Forest. The old drainage system, which had contributed to the problem, was overhauled.
Paths throughout the park have been redesigned to follow their original historical layout, while period features such as benches, litter bins, and lighting have been either restored or carefully replicated. The planting of new trees, shrubs, and the rejuvenation of large lawns have further enhanced the park’s natural beauty.
Visitors will now find a new playground, improved public toilets, and access to drinking water. A new catering establishment is also set to open soon.
Improved lighting along the main pathways has been installed to enhance safety, and a new spiral path and two staircases now offer easier access to the hilltop viewpoint, which provides sweeping vistas of the Brussels skyline.
Interior Minister Bernard Quintin, who oversees Beliris, the public body responsible for the project, praised the work. “The park is once again a place for walking, meeting, and enjoying nature in the heart of the city,” he said.
“Through this project, Beliris is fully demonstrating its role: investing in high-quality, sustainable and accessible public spaces for the benefit of all Brussels residents and visitors.”
Despite the success, the project faced significant hurdles. Originally budgeted at €2.25 million with a projected completion date in 2022, costs ballooned to €10 million and the project ran three years behind schedule. Construction firms Eiffage PIT f, ABOG, Sweco, and Coster & Vanden Eynde were involved in the restoration.
Opened in 1882 as ‘Midi Park’, the space was renamed Forest Park in 1913 and declared a listed heritage site in 1973. Officials hope the renovation not only revives a cherished piece of Brussels history but also prepares it for future generations.
