Belgium: Genk Shopping Center Closes Rooftop Parking Due to Heat

The rooftop parking at Shopping 3 in Genk, Belgium, was closed again on August 14, 2026, as a precautionary measure against the extreme heat. Signs indicated the parking was full, but it was actually empty, with barriers down. This decision was made by the Association of Co-owners (VME) of Shopping 3 to safeguard the parking surface.

“

A precautionary measure to protect the road surface from damage due to heat.

Last year, the roof of Shopping 3 received a new top layer. Following the advice of roofers, the parking is now closed when temperatures reach 30 degrees Celsius or higher. Marina Lowist, chairwoman of the VME, explained that the roofing material can become at least 10 degrees hotter than the ambient temperature. At such high temperatures, the roofing risks melting and detaching when vehicles drive over it, potentially causing damage and leaks into the shops below.

“

Because it gets at least 10 degrees warmer on that roofing at such temperatures.

Customers visiting Shopping 3 during periods of extreme heat will need to find alternative parking, such as at Shopping 1. Residents living in the apartments above the shopping center can still access their vehicles in the underground parking garages. The closure of the rooftop parking during heatwaves is becoming a familiar sight.

“

At that temperature, the roofing risks melting and detaching when cars drive over it. Resulting in the risk of new damage and leaks into the underlying shops. We want to avoid that at all costs.