Dijledonk: redevelopment of old Meuropsite begins
In the coming months, all paved areas and vacant buildings on the site will be demolished, except for the main building, which will be renovated. The demolition is expected to take approximately six months.
Julie De Pauw, Development Manager at Jan De Nul:
We have long awaited the opportunity to transform the Meuropsite into a vibrant and livable space for both people and nature. Dijledonk is a project close to our hearts at Jan De Nul—giving new purpose to an abandoned site and revitalizing it into a dynamic, mixed-use rural neighbourhood full of life.
"Dijledonk is a project close to our hearts at Jan De Nul—giving new purpose to an abandoned site and revitalizing it into a dynamic, mixed-use rural neighbourhood full of life."
Thorough remediation
The sheds on the site have asbestos roofs, requiring careful handling. The partners are implementing approved and safe solutions, ensuring that specialists remove and dispose of the asbestos in compliance with the strictest safety standards.
Once demolition is completed, around October this year, Jan De Nul and COGIVA will begin remediation works. This will address the site's historical contamination, including that of the metal processing plant Trefac, which was present on the site before the furniture manufacturer Meurop. The remediation is being carried out in collaboration with OVAM, the Flemish government's soil management agency.
Construction work is set to begin in mid-2026.
Paul Cordier and Peter Breesch, Managing Partners at COGIVA:
With Dijledonk, we are creating a pleasant, green, and dynamic living environment that seamlessly complements the village's charm. Its unique location near the Dijle Valley is a key asset in this redevelopment. We are fully committed to a car-free and accessible site, where connection with the surroundings is central. Nearly 80% of the space will remain undeveloped, with green squares and more than 220 new trees forming a vast park.
Sustainable mobility
Dijledonk's design incorporates ecological architecture and infrastructure. While nearly zero-energy buildings are now the standard, the partners are exploring the possibility of going further towards CO2 neutrality. In addition to private and shared gardens, a large park will be created where residents, neighbours, and visitors can relax and play. Dijledonk will have a low-car approach, with a focus on underground parking, including charging stations for electric vehicles.
Bart Vanmarcke, Alderman of Bonheiden:
As alderman for spatial planning, I am pleased that today marks the first steps towards the sustainable redevelopment of the Meuropsite. We have established a spatial implementation plan that facilitates both housing and commercial spaces, while also creating public green areas and enhancing the connection between the Dijle and Oude Keerbergsebaan. Agreements have already been made with the developer regarding the reconstruction of the Oude Keerbergsebaan and the focus on sustainable mobility and integrated systems. With a carefully considered positioning of the buildings, this project has the potential to transform Dijledonk into a remarkable residential area, giving the old, dilapidated Meuropsite a second life.
Creating experiences together
Dijledonk seamlessly blends living and working with a refined mix of high-quality flats, houses, offices, and commercial spaces. Young families, entrepreneurs, active grandparents, and local traders will all find something to suit their needs. Entrepreneurs interested in contributing to the site's experience are invited to contact us at thuis@dijledonk.be.
