neighborhood project, grassroots project, civic initiative, participatory budgeting, nature network plan
Spoor Oost is a historic site in Antwerp covering approximately 10 hectares. Once an abandoned freight yard and container terminal (until the early 21st century), it was transformed in March 2016 into a public event space and parking area. It has also become the permanent home for the annual *Sinksenfoor* (a traditional fair).
In collaboration with *Oostnatie*, local residents established a summer and event bar called “Bar Oost.” This initiative soon evolved into a space that prioritizes greenery and nature—a place for people to gather, where herbs and vegetables are grown for local use.
The efforts of the residents quickly became tangible: with government support, the “Troostplek” (a “place of solace”) was created—a green space designed for reflection.
Following the approval of a “Nature Fabric Plan” (*Natuurweefselplan*) by the Agency for Nature and Forests (*Natuur & Bos*), this green area was further expanded to include the “Droomgaard” (“dream orchard/garden”). Located in the midst of a wildflower meadow, it features fruit trees and a central collection of native, bee- and butterfly-friendly plants—nearly all of which are edible or possess medicinal properties.
Groencoach developed an ecological planting plan and, working alongside an earthworks specialist, optimized the site by removing the existing turf. The soil was then loosened—a method chosen to minimize disruption to soil life—and the surface was finished with a generous layer of compost (which helps retain moisture and, thanks to its natural composition, further boosts soil biodiversity).
Groencoach also supplied the necessary materials and plants—sourced from nurseries that practice organic cultivation and possess a deep understanding of ecology. Finally, in collaboration with a group of highly enthusiastic and motivated volunteers, Groencoach brought this little patch of nature to life within the city!
This took place during the winter of ’25–’26; in the spring, the first flower bulbs—daffodils and crocuses—emerged, and by June, we were already treated to a lovely gift from nature: the wild fennel was teeming with the caterpillars of one of our most beautiful native butterflies, the swallowtail.
The vegetation grows spontaneously, and other native plants have already established themselves; we simply remove the wild grasses to prevent them from taking over. It’s an organized chaos that is very easy to maintain!
Spoor Oost is a process that continues to evolve and grow; Groencoach provides advice on the approach and handles the technical and ecological development.
A stage is also set to be built soon, and in September 2026, Groencoach—in collaboration with the organization—will install a full-scale green roof. It will feature a water-harvesting system, allowing runoff from the roof to be reused in the planters below. We ensure nothing goes to waste, making the most of what Mother Earth provides us for free! In short, it’s a win-win situation for everyone!
