Restoration work on Borgerhout District Hall will begin on 26 October 2026, with repairs planned for the tower, façades, roofs, windows and entrance hall floor. The carillon will also undergo a major overhaul. The project, led by Antwerp property agency AG Vespa with support from the Flemish Government, is expected to be completed by the end of 2027.
The former town hall on Moorkensplein was built between 1886 and 1889 in the neo-Flemish Renaissance style. The building has been a protected monument since 1974 and continues to serve as Borgerhout’s district hall.
Antwerp is investing more than €3 million in the restoration, while the Flemish Government is contributing a €300,000 heritage grant through the agency for Immovable Heritage.
Restoring a landmark
The works will include replacing the slate roof covering on the tower, inspecting the other roofs and carrying out repairs where necessary. Parts of the tower’s timber structure will be replaced or reinforced before receiving a new breathable paint finish. Decorative roof features, metal components and wooden lanterns will also be restored.
All the building’s windows will be fitted with insulating glazing. Damaged stained glass will be repaired, with secondary glazing added to protect it from the weather. The façades will be repaired where cracks and open joints have developed, while the cornice will be repainted and the gutters inspected. The floor of the entrance hall will also be restored.
Antwerp Alderman for Property and AG Vespa chair Koen Kennis (N-VA) said: “Anyone standing on Moorkensplein cannot miss the district hall. It has been the square’s calling card since the late 19th century. With this restoration, supported by a heritage grant from Flanders, we are ensuring that it stays that way.”
Flemish Minister for Immovable Heritage Ben Weyts (N-VA) said: “The district hall and its tower are an icon of Borgerhout that should remain part of Antwerp’s skyline for many years to come. That is why we are restoring this monument with respect for the past and an eye to the future. Borgerhout will retain a heritage gem that is better insulated and ready for tomorrow’s challenges.”
Carillon to receive a major overhaul
The restoration will also cover the district hall’s carillon, which consists of 47 bells weighing a total of 5.5 tonnes. The bells will be temporarily removed and thoroughly refurbished. The work includes installing a new carillon keyboard, a new mechanical transmission system connecting the keys and pedals to the bell clappers, and two additional bells.
Antwerp Alderman for District Affairs Ken Casier (N-VA) said: “Apart from the bells at the Cathedral of Our Lady, Antwerp has only one other carillon, and it is in Borgerhout. For generations, it has given a voice to the district hall, the heart of Borgerhout. With a warmer sound and a new keyboard, we will soon be able to enjoy this unique instrument together again.”
Limited disruption during the works
Scaffolding will occupy part of Moorkensplein during the restoration. The district hall’s public counter services are expected to continue as normal, with residents still able to visit by appointment.
The building’s monumental main entrance will temporarily close while the entrance hall floor is being repaired, but the side entrance will remain open throughout the works.
The restoration is scheduled to start on 26 October 2026 and finish by the end of 2027.
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