Placemaking practices in Belgium prioritize community involvement and collaboration to create attractive and sustainable public spaces. The approach emphasizes local context, inclusivity, and design principles that reflect the cultural heritage and diversity of Belgium. Youth are often included in these practices through participatory design workshops, youth councils, and community events that provide opportunities for young people to voice their opinions and contribute to the planning and design process.

One example of placemaking in Belgium is the “Green Spaces Project,” which involves the creation of community gardens and green spaces in urban areas. The project involves collaboration between local governments, community groups, and design professionals to create new public spaces that prioritize ecological sustainability, community involvement, and cultural heritage. Youth are involved in the project through various engagement strategies, including youth councils, public art installations, and community events that showcase young people’s talents and contributions to the development of green spaces (Vlaamse Overheid, n.d.).

Another example of youth involvement in placemaking practices is the “Stadslab2050” program, which empowers young people to participate in urban planning processes and decision-making. The program involves a series of workshops and training sessions that teach youth about urban planning, design, and community engagement, culminating in a youth-led project to improve a public space in their neighborhood. The program has been successful in promoting youth participation and fostering a sense of ownership and belonging among young people in their communities (Stadslab2050, n.d.).

Overall, placemaking practices in Belgium prioritize sustainability, cultural heritage, and community involvement in creating attractive and livable public spaces. Youth are often included in these practices through engagement strategies that promote their participation and input in the design and development of public spaces.

References:

Stadslab2050. (n.d.). Stadslab2050. Retrieved from https://www.antwerpen.be/nl/info/52d5054fb6d61dc6f84d6e3c/stadslab2050

Vlaamse Overheid. (n.d.). Groen in de Stad. Retrieved from https://www.ruimtevlaanderen.be/NL/Beleid/Groenindestad/Paginas/default.aspx