A new wooden pontoon at the pond in Antwerp’s Stadspark city park was officially opened on Tuesday 6 October 2026, marking another step in the redevelopment of the historic city park. Pupils from nearby schools were also invited to see the new structure.
The pontoon has been built along the Quinten Matsijslei, extending from the bank over the water. It connects with the park’s existing sports and play area, placing it on the more active side of Stadspark while leaving quieter areas in the centre and south of the park.
The city says the pontoon will provide additional space for visitors as water levels rise and the available shoreline becomes smaller.
“By creating the pontoon, we are creating new space in the park, so that all visitors can find a pleasant place,” said Ken Casier (N-VA), Antwerp Alderman for Public Space and Green Areas. “The restoration of the island in the pond and the banks also provides better living conditions for fauna and flora, increasing biodiversity in and around the Stadspark pond.”
Stadspark redevelopment
The pontoon is part of the Stadspark Redevelopment Plan, under which several parts of the park have already been renewed.
The green strip along the Van Eycklei, the playground, the connecting path between the Rubenslei and Quinten Matsijslei, the island and the circular water system have all been redeveloped. More recently, the square in front of the War Memorial was also redesigned.
Most of the major interventions are now complete, according to Paul Cordy (N-VA), District Mayor of Antwerp.
“The Stadspark is being renewed and improved step by step, and most of the major interventions are now behind us,” Cordy said. “The water feature on the square in front of the War Memorial will be put into operation from spring 2027. The contractor is also completing the redevelopment of the Louiza-Marialei by early 2027.”
The third and final phase of the redevelopment plan will begin next year. It will focus on the remaining paths, new park furniture and the refurbishment of existing planting areas.
The redevelopment plan originated in 2019 following a meeting between local residents, the city and the district. A subsequent consultation and information process led to several changes to the plans.
The final works are scheduled to start in autumn 2027 and will be carried out in smaller phases.
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