The municipal executive of Knokke-Heist has made a key decision regarding the Casino-Kursaal project. The contract for the construction and renovation of the project zone has been awarded to All Art, a partnership involving Artes Depret, Artes Roegiers, and Alheembouw. This represents a crucial step towards commencing the works.
Mayor Cathy Coudyser emphasized the project's significance: “The construction of the Casino-Kursaal is one of the most challenging and complex projects for the municipality of Knokke-Heist. We place great trust in the construction team. The Kursaal will soon become a new showcase for our cultural and tourist-recreational development of Knokke-Heist, putting us back on the international map.”
Following a thorough and careful award procedure, which involved selecting various candidates based on their experience and references, site visits, tenders, and additional price clarifications were conducted. The assessment committee took its time to thoroughly examine the complex dossier.
After the award to All Art, a statutory waiting period of 15 days must be observed. Subsequently, the contract can be signed, and the work schedule will be further developed.
The works will be carried out in two phases to minimize disruption for residents, visitors, and businesses. The first phase will focus on underground works in the central part of Canadasquare and Elizabetlaan, including the construction of the new underground parking and casino gaming rooms. The future operator, Napoleon Games, will then be responsible for the interior fitting of the gaming rooms. As part of this phase, the public domain will also be redeveloped into an urban park landscape. The current Casino gaming room and restaurant will remain accessible throughout this phase, as will La Réserve. The second phase will involve the renovation of the existing Kursaal, the construction of the new south facade, and the redevelopment of the adjacent public domain up to the seawall.
Local residents will regularly receive information about the progress of the site, accessibility, traffic measures, and potential diversions through municipal channels and a project website where everyone can follow the works closely.
The Magritte Hall, a protected heritage site and internationally acclaimed artwork, will receive extra protection. The architectural team Tab Architects – Barozzi Veiga is collaborating with a multidisciplinary team, including heritage specialist Barbara Van der Wee. During the first construction phase of the Kursaal, a special protective structure will be installed inside the hall to prevent damage and ensure a controlled indoor climate, with continuous monitoring of temperature and humidity. The restoration of authentic elements, including the iconic chandelier, and the artwork 'The Enchanted Realm' by René Magritte will follow the construction work.
With an investment value of 122.7 million euros, this is the largest and most ambitious project ever undertaken by the municipality of Knokke-Heist. The project will give a new purpose to a strategic location in the heart of the seaside resort, featuring a new public space, a high-quality redevelopment of the surroundings, and the sustainable preservation of the Magritte Hall. Future revenues from concessions for the underground parking and the Kursaal will contribute to the project's financing.
In line with the vision of architect Stynen, the municipal executive aims to re-establish the Casino-Kursaal as an architectural landmark with international appeal. Events and cultural activities throughout the year will attract new visitors, thereby boosting the prosperity of Knokke-Heist and creating opportunities for local businesses, hospitality, and the hotel sector.
