In the Ter Elst garden neighbourhood in Heverlee, residents, the city and experts are working hand in hand to create a more liveable, climate-resilient community. Not from behind desks, but directly in the neighbourhood – through five resident-led working groups, each focused on a specific theme. One of these, Streets, squares and gardens, explores how greener public spaces and sustainable mobility can reinforce each other.

Their work builds on a study by, among others, former Flemish Government appointed urban planning expert (Vlaamse Bouwmeester) Erik Wieërs, and a participation process commissioned by the City of Leuven and led by Endeavour. The topics vary, but the approach is always the same: listen, connect and explore what’s possible.

Frank De Troyer, a long-time Ter Elst resident and coordinator of the group, already sees a shift taking place. “We managed to bring together a very diverse group and develop a shared vision. Even when we disagreed, we listened carefully and turned different perspectives into concrete proposals.”

One popular idea is to reimagine Ter Elstlaan as a green axis linking the various squares in the area – each with its own identity, co-shaped by the community. Some may focus on play, others on relaxation or social connection. “The key is to stay flexible," says Frank, "a play area today might become something else tomorrow, depending on the needs of the neighbourhood.”

The team also looked at rainwater infiltration, traffic flow, and parking. For example, water-permeable paving could help manage runoff. But they also face real-world tensions – like parking pressure on weekdays due to commuters heading to Gasthuisberg or nearby schools. A resident parking system is one option being explored.

Meanwhile, new housing is planned just across the main road, with 450 homes, including student and social housing. Linking both neighbourhoods through extended walking paths could be the start of deeper integration.

In November 2024, the Ter Elst team visited the Spaanse Kroon neighbourhood in Korbeek-Lo, where over 4,000 m² has already been de-paved through the European LifePACT project. These kinds of visits foster learning and trust between communities.

Of course, change can also be challenging.

“Ter Elst is already a lovely, green neighbourhood,” says Frank. “Some residents have lived here for decades, others just arrived. That diversity led to tensions, but also to meaningful conversations.”

The participatory process wrapped up with a neighbourhood party, but its impact continues.

“What moved me most is that new initiatives emerged beyond the original scope of the working group. One neighbour took the lead on reimagining an unused plot as a community garden. Our group also started connecting with care homes, schools and local services. That’s the real win: something has come alive in the neighbourhood.”