Grenspark Kalmthoutse Heide contender to become National Park (interview)

What would it mean if Grenspark Kalmthoutse Heide becomes a National Park?

Guy: That is exactly what our team is currently mapping out. Our independent design agency OMGEVING is working with ecological consultancy Hesselteer and socially responsible urban planning and development agency Endeavour to do this. We have already passed a first selection round with the Flemish government and now we have to submit a new dossier in May 2023. After that, the Flemish government will decide which four candidates will effectively be given the title of 'National Park'. The parks Bosland, Taxandria, Brabantse Wouden, Scheldt Valley and Hoge Kempen are also candidates. The master plan is an important part of that dossier and consists of two parts: a vision of the future and an action plan. The future vision deals with the challenges and bottlenecks around certain themes in and around the National Park, such as tourism, landscape and heritage in addition to nature. The action plan consists of concrete projects we want to realise in the short, medium and long term to make the park and its surroundings better.

Who all gets involved in drawing up such a master plan?

Guy: There is a lot involved in such recognition, but we think it is important to gather as many opinions as possible. So the surrounding municipalities are involved, but also the provinces of Antwerp and North Brabant. We also consult with very diverse organisations such as nature associations, agricultural organisations and tourist organisations. They each look from their own expertise at the possibilities and impact a National Park can have. And, of course, the users and residents of the area are also involved. They often visit the park every day, so we would like to hear their views. That consultation is scheduled around the end of the year. It is our job to unite all these visions and suggestions into a master plan supported by everyone.

To get all those parties around the table, so-called workbenches are being organised. What results do you expect from that?

Guy: We have had a first workbench and are enthusiastic about the result. We knew it wouldn't be obvious because some people don't quite see the added value of such a National Park yet. For instance, organisations focusing on tourism sometimes have other interests than residents, and farmers are worried that additional restrictions will follow. During the workbench, we explained that recognition as a National Park is mainly an opportunity and certainly not a threat. It was a constructive discussion and we are therefore looking forward to the two more workbenches to follow before the end of the year. By early next year, we will have gathered all the information and can shape our plan, discuss it further with coalition partners and then submit it.

What concrete plans are there if the 'National Park' label actually comes about?

Guy: Let's face it, such a label creates a 'strong brand' and brings in subsidies. With it, we can realise various projects in the nature reserves and in the region that are good for the climate, biodiversity and liveability. Streets, for instance, can be softened to green the environment. Or small landscape elements such as hedges, tree rows and verges can be planted. I am also thinking of cycling and walking paths that are better connected. These are local projects that residents will also be able to enjoy. Another important example: the De Vroente reception point will be tackled. That is the most well-known gateway and is therefore often overloaded. While there are several other entrances that people just don't know about. Making those more attractive and known will improve mobility throughout the region.

Spreading tourism, is that something you want to focus on?

Guy: Absolutely. And not only to relieve the known areas, but also to let visitors discover unknown areas. There are still so many unknown green pearls hidden in the area. For example, there is the anti-tank ditch, a military defence line that was once built from Stabroek to the Albert Canal. That line has become a valuable nature reserve, but it is not easily accessible. Making that military heritage accessible is also one of the many ambitions.

Do you have questions about the candidacy of Grenspark Kalmthoutse Heide to become a National Park? Or ideas/suggestions on opportunities and collaborations for the master plan? We would love to hear it! Send an e-mail to grenspark.

Or go to www.grensparkkalmthoutseheide.com/en/kandidaat_nationaal_park for more information, frequently asked questions and answers.

The candidacy for recognition as a National Park is/was subsidised under the project call National Parks, commissioned by the Flemish Government.