Namur has been recognised as a “tourist centre” by the Federal Government, the office of Walloon Minister-President Adrien Dolimont announced on Tuesday.
In October, the city submitted an application for this recognition. The status allows local businesses to extend their opening hours. Federal Minister for Independents David Clarinval granted the status through a ministerial decree on 20 December 2024.
This status allows 2,165 shops in Namur, including 430 hospitality establishments, to open on Sundays. Previously, only shops in certain areas like Namur centre, Lives-sur-Meuse, Jambes, and Wépion could open on Sundays.
The “tourist centre” status also lets staff in businesses with more than five employees work on Sunday afternoons.
The decision to recognise certain cities as tourist centres is made by the Federal Government under the law concerning commercial, artisan, and service opening hours.
Since the 6th State Reform, regional approval is also required for these requests. Three criteria must be met to obtain this status: tourist reception by an accredited body, tourism’s critical importance to the local economy, and the presence of tourist attractions that draw visitors.
