Plans to rebuild the former Saint Gertrude church on Place Van Meyel in the Brussels municipality of Etterbeek have been scrapped, La Libre Belgique reports.
In 1993, the bell tower of the church risked collapse and a decision was taken to destroy the structure. For the last 20 years, the Archdiocese of Mechelen-Brussels has been working on a project to rebuild the church, albeit in a smaller and more modern design.
The response to the project from locals was mixed. Some stated that they disliked the design while other locals stated that the square where the church once stood was an important part of their neighbourhood.
Credit: Gertrudis Foundation
The project reached an advanced stage, even receiving construction permits. Certain local groups have been very vocal in their opposition to the project, and even appealed to the Council of State.
On Tuesday, after nearly two decades of deliberating, the Archdiocese announced that, in view of elevated construction costs in recent months, and the presence of other churches nearby, that he would “regrettably” abandon the project.
Credit: Gertrudis Foundation
While the prospect of a new church is now impossible, the church still plans to use the land. The Archdiocese will reflect on “developing a future project for this land that responds in particular to pastoral and societal issues.”
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The Catholic church in the Brussels region is keen to give new life to some of its property, bringing social life into its spaces.
On Friday, the church of Saint-Antoine de Padoue de Forest will inaugurate a new climbing room in the naves of the church, allowing up to 150 climbers to climb up to 22 metres. The Church will share the space between Catholic worship and activities.
