What is the challenge?
In the transition zone between the Belgian coastline and the low-lying Oudlandpolder, freshwater reserves are under pressure from urbanisation, paving, and climate change. Campsites in this area play a major role in land use, making them key actors in solving issues like rainwater runoff, salinisation, and inefficient water management.
Why this pilot?
This pilot links sustainable tourism to climate-resilient land development in the Oudlandpolder region. Four coastal campsites are working closely with public and private partners to integrate smarter water systems and greening actions into long-term planning.
What’s being done?
- Site visits and interviews with campsite owners
- Selection of four motivated test sites (in Bredene, De Haan and Blankenberge)
- Cross-sectoral stakeholder meetings
- Development of realistic future visions and practical plans
- External consultancy engaged to help bridge policy and practice
Who is involved?
Led by Westtoer, in collaboration with:
- Vlaamse Landmaatschappij (VLM)
- VITO (Knowledge Centre Water)
- Recread (sector federation)
- Streekwerking Kust
- Regionaal Landschap Houtland en Polder
- Visit Flanders
- Municipalities of Bredene, De Haan, Blankenberge
- Campsites: Veld & Duin, De Heide, Jamboree, Duinenlac
What will it deliver?
- Four campsite case studies with actionable plans
- A transferable model for sustainable campsite development
- Policy recommendations for greening and water systems
- A tool to inspire and support the broader camping sector
Want to know more?
More information can be found on the Westtoer website. Do you have any questions? Please contact the organisation.