Braecklant

We are going to redevelop the Braecklant community center into a neighborhood center. The new Braecklant will house various neighborhood services, such as a community space, a small-scale health center, a pharmacy pickup point (medicine cabinet), and a youth center.

Status of demolition and new construction

We have signed a letter of intent with the general practitioner and are currently working on the further details of the agreements. The tendering procedure for the architect has been completed. The design of the new building focuses on sustainability, functionality, and a healthy indoor climate. 

We aim to demolish the building before the summer of 2026. We are currently preparing for this so that we can apply for a permit in good time. 

We have now had a flora and fauna survey carried out. During that survey, a territory and a mating site for the common pipistrelle bat were found in the area. We are therefore taking measures. Among other things, we are installing bat boxes in the immediate vicinity. 

We expect to be able to complete the new building in 2028. We are involving future users and immediate neighbors in the plans and their implementation, and we are keeping them informed of developments regarding demolition and new construction. 

Braecklant is now closed

This was necessary due to the technical condition of the building. The organizations that were based in Braecklant have found temporary accommodation at other locations, such as De Boerderij and De Landing. The Chill Out youth center is temporarily located in the old Vestzaktheater at Kerkstraat 2.

Open House on April 9, 2025

The open house regarding the new community center was a great success. We are delighted by the enthusiastic participation of the residents. During the meeting, many valuable ideas, wishes, and points of concern were shared, which we are now carefully reviewing. We are taking the time to thoroughly review all the feedback received and formulate a well-considered response. We aim to provide initial feedback within four weeks regarding the next steps and how we will incorporate the input into the plans for the new community center. This input is crucial for designing a community center that aligns with the community’s wishes and needs. 

During the public meeting on April 9, 2026, we presented the initial conceptual design and engaged in a dialogue with the neighborhood. Many local residents attended. We thank everyone for coming. At the bottom of this webpage, you will find the presentation slides and feedback from the public meeting.

The panels show a preliminary design for the new Braecklant. A conscious decision was made not to finalize the design at this stage, so that local residents have the opportunity to contribute their ideas and provide feedback.

The preliminary design was developed (based on a set of requirements) in collaboration with various stakeholders, including the family doctor, the Gentiaan neighborhood team, and other relevant parties. Their input played a key role in shaping the guiding principles and parameters of this preliminary design. Further development and decision-making may still lead to adjustments.

Do you have any questions regarding this information? Please send your comments or questions to braecklant@sonenbreugel.nl.

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