The relocation of the Koekoekxkraan, a recognizable symbol of Vilvoorde's industrial past, is planned for Thursday, October 1, 2026, at 9 AM. This operation will create space for the further development of the new city districts KanaalPark and 4 Fonteinen, while preserving an important piece of history.
The crane, a portal crane built in the late 1950s for the port of Matadi in Congo but never shipped there, arrived in Vilvoorde in 1989. Gebroeders Koekoekx, active in the building materials trade, took over the crane and made it a familiar sight at the Steenkaai. It testifies to Vilvoorde's industrial identity and the economic activity along the Brussels-Scheldt Sea Canal.
The city aims to preserve this tangible heritage. Following the necessary studies and preparatory work, the crane will be given a new, permanent location at the end of Havenstraat, on a newly constructed square. It will no longer be operational but will serve as a lasting heritage object.
Alderman for Finance and Environment Jeroen Bergers emphasizes the importance of the investment: "The preservation of the Koekoekxkraan is only possible if we do it safely and responsibly. This way, residents and visitors can soon enjoy a unique piece of Vilvoorde's heritage, with the certainty that safety always remains the absolute priority."
Alderman for Culture and Heritage Katrien Vaes adds: “A city that renews must not erase its past. With the Koekoekxkraan, we are preserving a visible piece of the Vilvoorde that grew thanks to the canal, industry, and port activities. At the same time, we are giving the canal zone a new future.”
The relocation is part of the broader revaluation of Vilvoorde's industrial heritage and the transformation of the canal zone into a new city district. Students from the schools ’t Groentje and Tangram were involved in the project, creatively considering the future of the crane and the city.
Mayor and Alderman for Education Jo De Ro considers it important for young people to know their city's history: "The crane tells a story about the industry, the canal, and the people who helped build Vilvoorde. By involving young people today, we pass on that story and encourage them to think about the future of the city where they live and go to school."
The restoration and relocation of the crane are a significant step in the renewal of the Steenkaai and the development of KanaalPark and 4 Fonteinen, a project realized with De Vlaamse Waterweg, Virix, and Matexi.
