A historical building was renovated and it was given a new modern function which ties in well with the requirements of the community. The Stadsmagazijn also contributed to the new drive for urbanism as it plays an important part in the rich diversity within Antwerp and this suburb. The aim is to mix the target groups (social cohesion) as well as mixing the scale levels (local and beyond). A lot of attention is paid to the tolerance of the residents towards the initiative and involvement in the community. On the flip side, the functions of the Stadsmagazijn support the participation of residents in their environment. One of the basic principles, after all, is involvement in social events, which forms an important part of participation. A great portion of the programmes are arranged in cooperation with residents and organisations with a lot of value attached to communication.

Stadsmagazijn (city depository) used to be an empty and neglected building in the heart of Schipperskwartier, which is also the prostitution area of Antwerp, until recently. Local government developed a policy in 1999 to combat the disfiguration of the neighbourhood. The aim was to give the area back to the residents in a way, which implies that involvement of residents and organising initiatives for the residents would be essential. Renovating the Stadsmagazijn played a crucial role in this.

The Stadsmagazijn created a community orientated project with a wide range of activities (see earlier). Residents also have logistical support for activities (meetings, celebrations, etc.) that they can organise themselves at very reasonable rates. Other organisations and private initiatives are also welcome. Suburb cooperation also addresses the needs of residents as far as local services are concerned and deliberation that may be required is coordinated.

Renovation of the building started in 2000, with suburb cooperation being established in the meantime. Renovation was completed in 2003 and the Stadsmagazijn made its infrastructure available, organised activities and created opportunities for cooperation. Private initiatives are also welcome. Local government are made aware of the desires of residents through the Stadsmagazijn. Residents of the area are kept informed of activities through a newsletter. The Stadsmagazijn provides space for exhibitions, courses (sport, cooking, etc.), discussion evenings with famous Antwerp residents, meetings, celebrations, ateliers, etc.

Firstly, the aim of the Stadsmagazijn is for it to become a meeting point for residents of the neighbourhood where people can meet, learn together and initiate projects. The Stadsmagazijn is also the first point of contact for residents in communicating with service centres.

Other than financial resources (cf. infra) the involvement of the community is very important, as well as the functions within the Stadsmagazijn. There are currently 5 fulltime employees. Around € 752,890 was spent on renovations, around € 350,000 for running the centre and € 465,760 on personnel costs between 2000 - 2004. A further € 384,327 is estimated for activities and € 570,975 for personnel costs for 2005 – 2007.

Suburb Cooperation for the city of Antwerp
Mrs. Ineke Pycke, tel. +32 3 222 36 52

01/01/2000

case

Urban Policy > Transport and infrastructure > Services & amenities

Amenities