Investing is almost impossible in Belgium

In 2006 Belgian top tier football club, FC Bruges or better known as Club Brugge launched the plans of a new football stadium with 45000 seats on the edge of Bruges, near a shopping district. The financing was completely planned, the grounds were there and the plans were perfect. But, no, the stadium didn’t get through the “Kafka” of Belgian regulations and possibilities to block big projects by any civilian here in Belgium. Bruges had to seek another location and change the plans.

Now, almost 14 yers later, the new stadium still is not built. Three different locations and multiple plans later, the project is still in its planning phase. All because of over regulation and NIMBY syndrome, here in Belgium.

NIMBY: Not In My BackYard

Incredible but sadly true, just like RSC Anderlecht, Royal Antwerp FC, Union Saint-Gilloise and Charleroi SC, an new stadium gets blocked by the government and people that can’t stand growth in their country. At least not near their BackYard.

Not just sports

This issue is not just in sports, but also in industry. Chemical concern Ineos wants to invest billions into the Antwerp harbour, but also gets blocked by regulators. Our country is just over regulated and heads for disaster if thingd keep going like this.

A last try by Club Brugge

Today, Club Brugge deposited new plans once again for a hypermodern stadium for 40k supporters on the current location…
People have 30 days noe to protest against the build.
I think I know what’s going to happen… nothing! Once again!

Sincerely,

Pele23