Blankenberge approves deal with Marc Coucke's glamping firm for Sport Vlaanderen site

The municipal council of Blankenberge has officially approved an agreement allowing Urban Gardens, a glamping company co-owned by Belgian entrepreneurs Marc Coucke and Parcifal Coeman, to operate the former Sport Vlaanderen domain. This decision resolves the uncertainty surrounding the site's future after Sport Vlaanderen halted its operations due to government austerity measures.

The city administration faced a tight deadline, needing to secure a new operator before September 1, when many local sports associations begin their new season. Mayor Björn Prasse described the process as a "feat" given the time constraints. Blankenberge's search for a suitable partner led them to Urban Gardens, which has committed to a significant investment of approximately €8.9 million by 2031.

Urban Gardens' vision for the site integrates tourism and sports. Plans include developing 50 glamping lodges and 50 camper pitches. On the sports front, a new artificial turf field and padel courts are planned. The existing squash and fitness facilities will be transformed into an indoor playground, and the wellness area will be repurposed into a fitness space, aiming to create a vibrant, multi-use destination.

The agreement involves a 49-year leasehold with Urban Gardens, who will pay the city €105,000 annually for the operation. This annual fee is lower than initially estimated, partly due to the substantial investments the company will make. Blankenberge will retain ownership of the domain and continue to contribute €370,000 annually, recouping a portion of this through the concession fee.