CircuS trajectory: Herentals has its say

Today we talk to Thérèse Vrancken, head of the Patrimony department at the City of Herentals. They are making their city centre more lively again, thanks to a new ballroom.

What social role should the new ballroom play within Herentals?

Today we have Het Hof, an old events hall in urgent need of renovation. We want to replace it with a new ballroom, combined with other functions, in the heart of the city. In this way, we strengthen the liveliness of the core and make the site accessible and usable for different people and groups.

How are you trying to integrate sustainability and circularity into the project?

It will be a challenge. We are providing underground parking, which makes it difficult to avoid concrete. Thanks to Kamp C, we did get a lot of tools to be more conscious of materials. In the choice of materials, the reuse of elements and the multifunctional use of spaces, we want to make very consciously sustainable choices and integrate them into the design.

How does it feel to set an example as Herentals?

As a city, we also have a social responsibility. This project offers us the chance to realise something with added social value. We want to remove as many cars as possible from the streetscape, leaving more space for green and blue. Think about bringing back water or urban greening.

The underground car park - one of the most important car parks in Herentals - will be easily accessible. In this way, we will make the centre more accessible for people who want to shop, take part in activities or make use of urban services.

Are you involving residents?

Absolutely. The project is located in the city centre and therefore has many stakeholders. We already provided for participation in the preliminary process, and we want to continue that now. In addition to the city festival hall, we also want to accommodate the youth work and a youth room in the building. We therefore involve local residents as well as young people and local associations that will have a place in the building.

What ambitions are there in the multifunctional use of the building?

We want to update our property portfolio so that it meets current standards and future climate targets. Comfort and user-friendliness are crucial here.

By combining different functions in one place, we also make meeting up easier for our residents. The building should contribute to the well-being of our citizens and their leisure experience.

How do the plans for this banquet hall relate to your broader vision for the Schaliken area?

The first phase includes the construction of the banquet hall, youth work and an underground car park. The area borders a park, and we want to bring the cars currently parked there underground. In this way, we will create a green lung from Belgenlaan to Grote Markt, inviting a walk or bike ride.

In a later phase, we also plan a clustering of urban services on the site. That is for the longer term, but is an integral part of our spatial vision.

Were you already thinking concretely about how to reuse materials in the project?

Not in detail, but thanks to the CircuS project, reuse is now really on the radar. The specifications will explicitly address this. It has become clear that we need to approach this strategically.

Today, you learned about the potential funding for such projects from local governments. What was the most interesting source of funding that came to light today?

It stood out that many local governments in Europe are facing similar challenges, and that solutions are being sought collectively through European projects. That offers interesting grant opportunities. What we also learned is that European grants often only cover operating costs, not investment costs. For our project, which is already more advanced, the experts told us that this need not be a problem: even ongoing projects can still apply for support.

How difficult does it seem to you to translate your circular or livability ambitions into a strong funding application?

That will not be obvious. Circular or sustainable building is often seen as more expensive, and that deters. But it is also important to know that by spending certain initial budgets on circular building you will not have to pay for certain other things in the longer term. You build a kind of 'piggy bank for the future': maybe building costs a bit more now, but the savings in the long run are much bigger.

What lessons do you take away from the pitch exercise on your project you did today?

Especially the importance of strong partnerships has stuck. Kamp C can definitely play a big role in that. In addition, it is essential to properly describe the 'why' of your project. Why are you doing this? What is the social value?

Do you see opportunities to submit the project within a European partnership?

If the timing is right: definitely. He who does not dare does not win.

What has been the most important outcome for you during the process?

First of all: awareness. We need to be aware that there are circular options, that we can apply them strategically in our projects.

Second: networking. We got the chance to speak to different experts here, to get to know their expertise. I found that very strong.

Third: legal and procedural tips. The session on how to market a project was especially valuable. From that, we take away practical insights that will help us draft quality specifications.

So what concrete steps are planned for the city festival hall route now?

I am told that we have to be ready for a European subsidy project(laughs). A study on stability and acoustics is also under way, given the multitude of functions in the building. We have learned that we have to be very aware of that too.

Simultaneously, we also want to approach the Flemish Government Architect for an Open Call. And oh yes, we are also looking for a new project name!

Where do you think Kamp C can provide further support?

Certainly in drawing up the specifications. And at the jury stage: Kamp C can help watch over the sustainability and circularity criteria when selecting a design team. That would be a great added value.

Are there any themes you would like to explore further?

The 5 sessions we went through with Kamp C were very sufficient for me. The most important themes were covered for me. I am a fan of a return moment, though, where we are a bit further into the project. That way we can come back with our questions again and seek advice on our state of play. Perhaps it would be interesting to add another topic on how best to write a grant dossier, what is the best way to write.

Would you recommend this course to other local boards?

Yes, definitely.

What is your dream image of Herentals in 10 years' time?

Difficult to say... The dream image is that we can make our city's heritage available in a comfortable way, both to staff and citizens in centralised locations. We want buildings that can really meet future climate requirements.