SMEs Speak Up: Leuven and Mechelen Launch Open Dialogue on Greener Urban Logistics at Bouwbar 2025
On June 12, 2025, the cities of Leuven and Mechelen took a decisive step toward more inclusive and responsive urban logistics by engaging directly with over 160 construction-sector SMEs at Bouwbar 2025, a yearly networking event hosted by Bouwunie. Held at the Wim Verhuur Academy in Sint-Katelijne-Waver, the event brought together electricians, HVAC technicians, painters, roofers, and other essential tradespeople from across the provinces of Antwerp and Flemish Brabant.
A Constructive Exchange on City Access and Sustainability
As part of the GLEAM NSR project, this City Dialogue aimed to better understand the everyday realities faced by SMEs working in construction and service logistics. Through a live Mentimeter survey and over 10 in-depth booth conversations, Leuven and Mechelen gathered valuable feedback on challenges related to city access, parking, permitting, and last-minute interventions.
The message from SMEs was clear: fragmented regulations, high permit costs, and inflexible procedures make it harder to operate in city centres. “It’s not just about logistics efficiency — it’s about affordability, sustainability, and fair access,” noted one participant.
Despite one more pointed exchange with a Mechelen representative, the overall tone was highly positive. Attendees welcomed the opportunity for open, one-on-one discussions and praised the cities for showing up and listening.

Survey Snapshot: Real Challenges, Clear Needs
Results from the live survey confirmed that nearly all SMEs encounter problems working in urban areas. Key pain points included:
- Difficulty securing parking and access permits, especially on short notice.
- High permit costs cause construction costs and renovation budgets to increase, resulting in cheaper, less sustainable materials being used.
- A lack of clear, centralised information — especially challenging for small teams without administrative support.
From Insight to Action
The dialogue didn’t stop at listening. Leuven and Mechelen are already identifying concrete follow-up actions:
- Simplifying Access to Information: Plans are underway to develop a landing page that consolidates essential information about goods delivery, permitting, and access.
- Administrative Simplification: The cities are analysing the current permit request processes with an eye toward flexibility, especially for urgent interventions.
- Green Public Procurement: Both cities will explore how local presence and sustainability can play a larger role in public tenders — benefiting SMEs and the climate alike.
Next Steps
Following up on the momentum of Bouwbar 2025, city representatives will join national discussions with ministers and procurement experts, continue outreach to SMEs, and test improved information materials and processes during future dialogues.
This City Dialogue marks the start of a longer journey — one where cities and SMEs work together to shape greener, fairer, and more accessible urban logistics.
