Sint Niklaas

At Stationsplein, a busy link in Sint-Niklaas’ shopping and walking loop, the city plans to turn a heat-prone, fully paved square into a greener, cooler, and more welcoming place. Measures include more planting areas with raised borders, permeable red paving that absorbs less heat, and improved rainwater infiltration. The design, still in progress, will be shared with residents and local businesses for feedback before construction starts after city council approval in late 2025.

This project stands out for its focus on both climate resilience and everyday usability. By rethinking the paving materials and patterns, Sint-Niklaas is tackling the heat island effect and stormwater management in one go. The raised planting borders will help greenery thrive while discouraging trampling, ensuring plants can grow strong and healthy. The design also recognizes the station area’s role as a social and commercial hub. The goal is to create a space where people can comfortably pause whether they’re waiting for a bus or train, grabbing a drink or snack, or simply enjoying the city atmosphere.

In the short term, the renovated Stationsplein will become a more attractive place to stay with shade, greenery, and comfortable spaces to sit. In the long term, the changes are expected to significantly reduce the heat island effect in the area, improve rainwater infiltration, and make the station zone a safer, more welcoming place for pedestrians and cyclists alike.

By the end of the project, Sint-Niklaas hopes the square will no longer be just a transit point but a genuine city garden at the gateway to the center.

For more information, contact info@sint-niklaas.be.