OLV hospital site
Urbanism
Concept study for the redevelopment of the Onze-Lieve-Vrouw hospital site in Oudenaarde.
Concept studies are projects subsidised by the Flemish Urban Policy Department. These are projects that have not yet been formulated clearly enough (e.g. in terms of project definition) and therefore require more conceptual study work. In 2024, five concept studies were granted.
The hospital site in Oudenaarde is one of the two concept studies we were asked to carry out with B-city: we were also selected as the winner for the concept study of the urban renewal project Grooten Singel in Turnhout. We are therefore proud to develop two of these five concept studies with our office. For both projects, we are joining forces with our restoration division B-juxta and landscape agency Omgeving.
Today, Oudenaarde is the largest city in the Flemish Ardennes and expects strong growth in the coming years. The city not only aims for more inhabitants but also wants to become a cultural and tourist attraction. Its ambition is to become a full-fledged city centre. The city wants to invest further in its services, not only by increasing the capacity of city services but also by looking for more easily accessible, approachable and visible places to organise these services.
The Onze-Lieve-Vrouw hospital site has the necessary potential for this: it is a location of inestimable historical value at the foot of the imposing Saint Walburga Church, a stone's throw from the lively and historical Market Square, and close to schools and other amenities.
The concept study should not only investigate whether the redevelopment of the site is feasible but also question the ambitions that the city holds for it. The study is an important aid for Oudenaarde in drawing up a project definition in the follow-up process towards a supported project: what are the needs of the various stakeholders and how do we develop a broad and innovative methodology to facilitate the involvement and input of all city users in co-creation?
The redevelopment of the Onze-Lieve-Vrouw hospital site fits perfectly with the central vision of our design team. From the unique and city-wide opportunities of this project, we are working towards a strong and sustainable future.
