Peterbos

Across the sprawling 17.1 hectares, Peterbos rises as a prominent landmark in Anderlecht, Brussels. Peterbos is one of the largest social housing estates in the region. Established in 1958, Peterbos initially served as a case study. It explored how high-rise buildings could be developed sustainably. This massive complex boasts 18 residential towers and houses 1,624 apartments, a stark contrast to the traditional urban fabric. The final buildings were handed over to the Public Service Real Estate Company in the late 1970s. Peterbos features unique alleyways. These cul-de-sacs lack individual names. They are identified by the numbers of the building blocks, ranging from 1 to 18. The estate’s layout integrates numerous green spaces, including Peterbos Park. This provides residents with ample areas for recreation and leisure, a haven within this urban landscape. Peterbos sits near the Westland Shopping Center, one of Belgium’s largest shopping malls. Peterbos also neighbors the Astrid Park and Scheutbos Park, both less than a kilometer away. While Peterbos provides much-needed housing, it has faced social challenges due to its high density and the vulnerable socioeconomic profile of its residents. In 2022, a neighborhood contract was initiated to revitalize Peterbos. This contract includes the redevelopment of public spaces and various activities aimed at boosting the area’s vitality. A unique feature of Peterbos is its metal footbridge. This bridge connects the housing estate to Peterbos Park, replacing a former laminated wood bridge built in the early 1980s.