Nearly 5,000 suggestions for new name of merged Belgian municipality

A significant public engagement effort has resulted in nearly 5,000 name suggestions for the newly merged Belgian municipality of Beveren-Kruibeke-Zwijndrecht. This initiative marks the first phase in selecting a new identity for the combined entity, which has held the distinction of having the longest municipal name in Belgium for over two years.

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It is one of the most special participation processes since the merger.

Residents were encouraged to submit ideas for a new name, with the stipulation that the existing names 'Kruibeke,' 'Zwijndrecht,' or 'Beveren' could not be included. The proposals came from all 13 sub-municipalities, indicating broad participation in the process. Mayor Marc Van de Vijver acknowledged that while "enthusiasm might be a big word," some residents are beginning to see the "opportunities" presented by the merger, emphasizing the need to "leave the past behind and work towards the future."

"We cannot keep complaining about the past," Van de Vijver stated, highlighting the positive aspects of the merger and the project's reception. He noted that an initial name, 'Beveren-Waas,' was adopted in February 2024 to meet a deadline for the Flemish Parliament's approval of the merger. Now, a more comprehensive process is underway.

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Enthusiasm might be a big word, but a number of people there are starting to see that this merger also holds opportunities. We must leave the past behind and work towards the future.

A diverse panel of 13 individuals, drawn from various advisory councils including the family, environment, and culture councils, will undertake the substantial task of reviewing all submissions. Their goal is to create a shortlist of 20 names by October, from which they will then select the final five. Residents will then have the opportunity to vote on these five options, ranking them according to their preference.

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We cannot keep complaining about the past.

The municipal government stresses that the new name will function as a "family name," with the 13 sub-municipalities retaining their distinct "first names." This means that places like Zwijndrecht, Bazel, and Haasdonk will continue to be known by their current names, but will be united under a new overarching municipal designation. Those who prefer not to use the new name can still identify themselves by their sub-municipality and its corresponding postcode.

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The new name will be our family name, the sub-municipalities will provide the first name.