This centrally located site offers many possibilities to address future needs. Due to changed plans within the Vroonhof project and the loss of the possibility to build a parking garage under the auditorium, there is a need for additional parking space. Both buildings are currently in poor condition, partly due to adjacent construction work on Ieperstraat.
With the purchase, the city aims to explore options for creating additional parking capacity, combined with a reorganization of the adjacent project land. The possibility of a public-private partnership is being investigated for the former ACV building, to house Ruilwinkel De Rupse and the Huis van het Kind. The city wants to respond to various needs and further strengthen Ieperstraat as a central axis for shops and services.
The purchase was carefully prepared. After an appraisal of both buildings, negotiations began with the owner, Het Katholiek Volkshuis vzw, leading to an agreement. The purchase promise was submitted for principal approval to the municipal council on October 26. With this acquisition, Poperinge intends to take control of a strategically located site.
