ANTWERP | Renovation of Sint-Andries site begins: a new cultural and community hub for the neighbourhood

The long-awaited renovation of the Sint-Andries site in central Antwerp is now underway, marking the start of a transformative project set to redefine the area as a vibrant cultural and community hub. The works, which began in early March, are expected to continue until 2028. Upon completion, the site will become home to a variety of youth and cultural organisations, offering a welcoming space for residents of all ages.

The project, led by municipal real estate agency and manager AG Vespa on behalf of the City, aims to create a warm, inclusive meeting place that brings together the Sint-Andries neighbourhood. 

The renovated site will feature workspaces, reading and seating areas, an open foyer, workshops, and even a radio studio. At the heart of the development is a large multifunctional building designed according to the agora principle, a dynamic, shared space that encourages collaboration and connection among visitors.

A space for all ages and interests

Alderman for Culture Lien Van de Kelder (Vooruit) emphasised the project’s broader significance: “We are not just announcing construction work; we are announcing new possibilities. This site will become a warm meeting place that unites the Sint-Andries neighbourhood. It will be an open and inspiring home where children, young people, and the elderly can find their place, where associations come together, and where art and culture are both visible and tangible. Here, we are building the beating heart of the neighbourhood. Anyone who steps inside will feel inspired and at home.”

Alderman for Youth Karim Bachar (Vooruit), who grew up in Sint-Andries, added a personal perspective: “This neighbourhood holds a special place in my heart. I know how important it is to provide children and young people with a safe space where they can dream, experiment, and develop. With this renewed site, we are doing just that, creating a warm nest for the neighbourhood where everyone is welcome. It will be a safe and accessible place where youth and community organisations can come together and collaborate.”

Preserving history, embracing sustainability

The Sint-Andries site, which previously housed the city’s public cleaning service for decades, will retain several historically valuable buildings. The large and small hangars, the former gymnasium of the boys’ school, and the old horse stables will all be preserved and renovated. The teachers’ and director’s houses on Sint-Andriesplaats will also be restored.

Unnecessary outbuildings will be demolished to make way for two new, sustainable structures equipped with solar panels, energy-efficient lighting, and geothermal heat pumps. These features will provide heating in winter and passive cooling in summer. The site will also include a ‘green corridor’, allowing pedestrians to cross between Prekersstraat and Sint-Andriesplaats during the day. In the evenings, gates will close to secure the area.

A green and connected environment

The interior of the site will be transformed into a green oasis, with multiple planting areas and strategically placed trees to provide shade and cooling. The design balances hard and soft surfaces, creating a dynamic and inviting green space. Permeable paving will allow rainwater to infiltrate the ground, supporting both the plant beds and the city’s climate resilience goals.

Community engagement and next steps

Before the summer, a ceremonial first-stone laying will mark the official start of the major renovation and construction works. At the end of February, AG Vespa and the City of Antwerp hosted an information session for local residents, providing details about the project and addressing any concerns.

The renovated Sint-Andries site is set to become a cornerstone of community life, offering not only cultural and educational opportunities but also a space for creativity, performance, and neighbourhood events. 

With support from the Flemish Government, the project promises to foster connection, engagement, and cross-pollination between residents and creators, ensuring that Sint-Andries remains a thriving and inclusive part of Antwerp.

For further updates and information, residents are encouraged to stay in touch with the city’s communication channels.

On the look of Antwerp

• ANTWERP | Alderman Ken Casier calls for more greenery on Operaplein: “though it will not be an easy task”.
• ANTWERP | Redevelopment of the Stuivenberg site takes further shape.
• ANTWERP | Circulation plan for Meirbrug with car-free Kammenstraat and Groenplaats approved.
• ANTWERP | Premetro tunnel between Left and Right Banks to close for nearly a year for major renovation works.
• ANTWERP | Renovation of Linkeroever station to begin during spring half-term, rail services temporarily disrupted.
  ANTWERP | Concept for Meir redevelopment plan approved.
• Antwerp approves Pedestrian Programme 2025 to transform the city into a leading walking environment by 2030.
• Antwerp-Linkeroever Railway Station to be renovated during the 2026 spring half-term and to open in May.
• Antwerp-Berchem Railway Station up for major revamp.
• ANTWERP | Improving traffic safety on Belgiëlei and Klein-Antwerpen.
• ANTWERP | Top Boerentoren to be restored to 1930 look unless new plans are approved.
• Flanders selects Bovenbouw Architectuur and Christ & Gantenbein as architects for M HKA museum of contemporary art.
• ANTWERP | Redevelopment of the Paardenmarkt one step closer.
• ANTWERP | New owners to explore future for Shopping Stadsfeestzaal on the Meir.
• ANTWERP | Groenplaats redesign planned for 2026.
• ANTWERP | ‘Blinds’ Martin Margiela at Schuttershofstraat.
• ANTWERP | Flemish Culinary Centre Smaakhaven at Loodwezen to open in 2029.
• Antwerp unveils texts and names for monument in honour of WWII victims.
• City of Antwerp commissions ‘Collectie Centrum’ to store heritage collection.
• 17th century Antwerp Citadel decorative vase gets prominent place at KMSKA.
• Antwerp erects cenotaph for deceased Congolese from 1894 World Exposition.
• ANTWERP | Redesign works of Wapper start in 2026.
• ANTWERP | Final design Linkeroever Scheldt Banks South approved.
• ANTWERP | Preliminary design of Ringpark ‘Cluster Centraal’ approved.
• Which flags get to fly at Antwerp City Hall?.
• ANTWERP | Market exploration questions the future of the Stadsschouwburg Theatre Building.
• Antwerp-South Railway Station and surroundings get makeover.
• ANTWERP | Northern Pavillion at Scheldt’s Northern Terrace gets revamp.
• AREAS OF ANTWERP | St. James’ Church (Sint-Jacobskerk).
• AREAS OF ANTWERP | St. Paul’s Church (Sint-Pauluskerk).
• AREAS OF ANTWERP | Scheldekaaien or Scheldt Quays.
• AREAS OF ANTWERP | Zurenborg.
• AREAS OF ANTWERP | Cogels-Osylei between Berchem and Antwerp’s Zurenborg neighbourhood.
• AREAS OF ANTWERP | De Gerlachekaai at the Scheldt.
• AREAS OF ANTWERP | Sint-Andriesplein.
• Rainbow zebra crossing in Borgerhout.
• Rainbow zebra crossings of Antwerp.
• Rainbow zebra crossing in Berchem.
• Antwerp designs future of Scheldt Left Bank riverside.
• ANTWERP | Major revamp of the Meirbrug – Suikerrui – Scheldt Quays axis to complete the Via Sinjoor.
• ANTWERP | Looking for Linkeroever Railway Station.
• PHOTOS | Het Steen, Antwerp’s new Visitor Centre.
• VIDEO | Walking the future Spoorpark between Zurenborg (Antwerp) and Borgerhout.
• 5 spots in Antwerp to soak up the sun for free..
• ANTWERP | Community centre coStA to become ANDRS in 2027 after major revamp.