VEEMARKT, MECHELEN

Mechelen’s city center is currently facing a shortage of green infrastructure on paved surfaces where conventional planting is not an option. In locations such as the Veemarkt, paved conditions preclude open-ground rooting, even as the demand for cooling, shade, and biodiversity within the urban core continues to intensify. Consequently, the City of Mechelen sought a sustainable, visually identifying solution to integrate structural greenery without relying on the existing square.

Seven custom-made Jungle Blocks+® have been installed on the Veemarkt in Mechelen. Finished in the municipality's signature RAL color, the jungleblocks align the project with Mechelen's urban identity. Each individual jungleblock houses one of four meticulously selected tree species (Betula nigra, Carpinus betulus, Alnus glutinosa, or Platanus × hispanica) and features an integrated 540 liter water buffer.

Together with accompanying initiatives, these seven jungleblocks form a 'walking forest' within the public space. This green concept operates entirely independently of underground conditions, rendering it versatile enough for deployment on any paved location across the city.

The Veemarkt serves as one of the designated sites within a pilot program launched by the City of Mechelen to pioneer innovative urban greening solutions. While other green initiatives within this program are temporary, the jungleblocks are set to become a permanent fixture in the city.

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