City of Antwerp creates new building code

The City of Antwerp is working on a new building code. In doing so the City seeks to improve the quality of the buildings and the open space. The new building code aims to provide a response to current and future questions about, among other things, a varied and affordable housing supply, approach to greenery and water in the city, sustainable energy technologies and parking. It contains fewer rules, is reportedly more straightforward and easier to apply. From its entry into force (now planned for May-June 2024), the new building code will replace the current one, and apply to all construction projects in Antwerp. This will certainly have an impact on the likelihood of real estate projects in the city obtaining building permits. Anyone wishing to submit comments or raise objections can do so from 13 November 2023 up to and including 12 January 2024. Then the draft of the building code and the environmental impact assessment report will enter the phase of public enquiry.