Zuidpark
- Client
- AG Vespa & Water-link
- Country
- Belgium
- Period
- 2015-2024
The Challenge
The redevelopment of Antwerp’s old south docks area presented a significant challenge: to transform a large, vacant parking lot, left behind after the docks were demolished in the 1970s, into a vibrant, climate-resilient urban space. This project aimed to honor the site’s historical significance while addressing modern environmental and social needs.
The Solution
Developed as a close collaboration between Tractebel, Georges Descombes and atelier adr, Zuidpark is the result of a strong multidisciplinary design effort. The decision to relocate parking underground freed up the surface for the creation of a generous public landscape, transforming a formerly car-dominated site into a 9-hectare urban park.
The park integrates a rich variety of vegetation and a diverse sequence of spaces for relaxation, recreation and activity, structured by a design that reinterprets the geometry of the former docks. As part of the European pilot project Sponge 2020, an innovative water management system was developed that captures and stores rainwater in underground buffers and reuses it within the park’s water features. By replacing extensive hard surfaces with shaded, green spaces, the project enhances biodiversity and strengthens the site’s resilience to extreme rainfall, drought and urban heat.
The Impact
Completed in the summer of 2024, Zuidpark is now a thriving and inclusive space, cherished by the community year-round. Tractebel’s contributions have helped to transform the area into a landmark in Antwerp, seamlessly blending history, sustainability, and modern urban living. The park serves as a testament to Tractebel’s expertise in creating climate-adapted infrastructure that enriches the urban environment.
The Zuidpark is a result of shared ambitions by the entire designteam, the partners, contractors and the client. Together we have realised a truly remarkable public space. A one of a kind project due to its scale, location and ambitions. Tractebel has been envolved from the design competition untill execution. It is an examplary project illustrating our vision to create livable parks and public spaces.
Bart Van Gassen
Senior Architect - Project Manager
This urban marvel is the result of the strong collaboration between Tractebel’s design teams, partners, contractors and the City of Antwerp.
Thanks to all involved:
- DESIGN: Tractebel, Georges Descombes and Atelier Descombes Rampini (ADR).
- ENGINEERING: Tractebel and IMDC. IMDC has collaborated with our hydraulic team to calculate (Sirio) the rainwater recovery well (disconnection of the roofs around the square) and the collection for reuse (trees, sweepers, etc.).
- PLANTING: Erik De Waele
- LIGHTING: Les Éclairagistes Associés
- ARTWORK WATERCIRCLE: Carmen Perrin
- Commissioned by AGVespa and Waterlink and executed by Stadsbader (for infrastructure) and ELM (for landscaping).