Record visitors flock to Ghent's Blaarmeersen as incidents plummet

The Blaarmeersen recreational area in Ghent, Belgium, is experiencing a record-breaking summer, having already surpassed last year's total visitor numbers midway through the season. The area has welcomed 170,000 visitors so far, a figure attributed to the hot weather and the success of a new management strategy implemented four years ago.

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We are very proud that it is going so well now.

This strategy involves a fenced-off beach and swimming zone, which allows for controlled access and prevents overcrowding during peak times. The implementation of sfeerbeheerders (atmosphere managers) who kindly enforce rules, along with security guards for stricter interventions, has been crucial. This approach has led to a significant reduction in major incidents, with numbers falling to one-third of previous levels, despite the surge in visitors.

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We see that falling back to a third of what it once was.

Cathérine Meyvaert of Farys, the operator, expressed pride in the current success, noting that hotter days naturally lead to higher visitor numbers. The division of the beach into zones for different activities, clear signage, and effective communication among all partners, including lifeguards, atmosphere managers, and security, are key components of the system.

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The way people are addressed is a crucial link in preventing problems.

The Blaarmeersen previously struggled with a reputation for large-scale fights and incidents. However, the new approach, which includes discreet police presence as a last resort, has demonstrably turned the tide. This success has not only increased local attendance but has also made the Blaarmeersen a model for other recreational swimming areas, with officials from other locations visiting to study and adopt similar methods.

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The success also lies in the clearly defined tasks. We constantly communicate, but everyone's role is clear.