ANTWERP | New railway ‘Spoorpark’ park between Zurenborg and Borgerhout to be named Statiepark

A new park between Antwerp‘s Zurenborg neighbourhood and Borgerhout is set to be named Statiepark. The green space, located alongside the railway tracks between Draakplaats and Luitenant Naeyaertplein, is expected to open in the summer of 2027.

Until now, the project had been referred to by the working title ‘Spoorpark‘ (‘Railway Park‘). However, city officials said a more distinct and recognisable name was needed, particularly for emergency services.

Name refers to historic railway station

The future park stretches along a railway embankment that historically formed part of Antwerp’s former ring railway. The nearby Antwerp-East Railway Station on Plantin en Moretuslei was known as Borgerhout Railway Station between 1879 and 1905, inspiring the new name. ‘Statie‘ is a dialect and old-fashioned Dutch word for ‘station’.

The district councils of the District of Antwerp and the District of Borgerhout have now proposed the name Statiepark. Street signs would carry the subtitle: “Referring to the former Borgerhout freight station and Antwerp-East station.” Antwerp’s street naming committee has already issued a positive recommendation, with final approval still to come from the city council.

Two-hectare park with preserved railway heritage

The new park will cover around two hectares. The former ‘brosselloods‘ – a maintenance shed once used for work trains – will be renovated and transformed into a shelter and meeting space. Platform 1 of the former Antwerp-East station will also be preserved.

The park will include new walking and cycling paths, creating a green connection between Borgerhout and the Zurenborg neighbourhood.

On the look of Antwerp

One Comment Add yours

  1. Unknown's avatar Timothy says:

    Work will begin next week on Antwerp’s new Spoorpark (Rail Park), a greenway that will transform a disused elevated railway site into a new pedestrian…

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