Grenspark Kalmthoutse Heide applies to become Flemish National Park

Grenspark Kalmthoutse Heide applied to become a National Park on the basis of an open call from the Flemish Government. On the Dutch side, the area has previously been recognised as a National Park. The dossier has the support of the municipalities of Kalmthout, Essen, Stabroek and Brasschaat and numerous other partners.

The Grenspark Kalmthoutse Heide is currently a vast nature reserve of 6000 ha located on the border between Flanders and the Netherlands. The Grenspark is well known locally as a nature reserve and for many people it is synonymous with nature in Flanders. With a diverse landscape of fens, wet moors, dry moors and forests, the area offers an enormous wealth of impressions for visitors. The 27 walking routes offer new views and discoveries each time.

Grenspark Kalmthoutse Heide is a biodiversity hotspot with, among other things, more than 1,000 species of moths, numerous rare bird species such as the nightjar and also rich in specific flora. This is why the area is protected under Natura 2000 in Europe.

One year to work towards final candidacy

Martin Groffen (chairman Grenspark Kalmthoutse Heide): "We are pleased to take this step together with the partners. In this way, we continue to work on a beautiful and robust nature reserve with important opportunities for tourism and local economy. We have also listened carefully to the feedback formulated and have adjusted our plans accordingly."

Concerns arose in recent weeks about possible expansion plans for Grenspark Kalmthoutse Heide. Together with municipal authorities, the plans have been adjusted to meet these concerns. Grenspark Kalmthoutse Heide is therefore only submitting the current area for the selection phase of National Parks.

If the Flemish Government recognises this candidacy for the next selection phase, Grenspark Kalmthoutse Heide will be given a year to concretise its plans and propose a final candidacy. In doing so, feedback from all stakeholders will of course be taken to heart.

What is a Flanders National Park?

According to the Flemish Government's definition: A Flemish National Park is a recognised, geographically defined area of sufficient size with exceptional natural value and international appeal. Management is aimed at achieving sustainable protection and development of landscape ecological processes and their associated ecosystems, habitats and species together with the area coalition. The unique natural environment, landscape and heritage offer opportunities for tourist recreational development and promotion, but always within the carrying capacity of nature and its surroundings.

https://www.natuurenbos.be/nationaleparkenvlaanderen