Along the Vijverbeek, a 5-meter wide strip will be cleared in December 2026. These activities are preparing the stream for the redevelopment scheduled for 2027.
During this initial phase, various tasks will be carried out: small trees and shrubs will be pruned to allow regrowth, large trees will be retained unless they obstruct planned excavation work, and brambles and ferns will be mowed.
The second phase, the redevelopment of the Vijverbeek, will follow in 2027. The Agency for Nature and Forest is collaborating with the Province of West Flanders on this. Planned works include making the Vijverbeek's banks less steep, installing a pressure pipeline, and slowing down water discharge where possible to allow more time for soil infiltration.
The Vijverbos, one of the most important green areas in Staden with nearly 10 hectares and a remnant of the historic Vrijbos, will receive a more natural design through these works. By retaining water for longer periods, the water management system will be better aligned with the natural functioning of the forest, benefiting local nature and biodiversity.
