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Discover how the EU supports your local area
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Aalst market square

Aalst, Belgium

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Aalst market square
© bbsferrari | AdobeStock

Alongside a number of vibrant towns, such as Geraardsbergen, Ninove, Zottegem and Aalst, the district of Aalst, together with the eastern part of the Flemish Ardennes and the meanders of the River Dender, boasts a number of characteristic wide, open landscapes. Economically, the region forms part of the central core area known as Flanders, but is also not far from the Walloon industrial cities. The South-East Flemish region is also a real commuter region due to the large number of inhabitants working outside the region.

Examples of projects and initiatives supported by the EU

Bicycle tunnel on the route of the bicycle highway between Aalst and Londerzeel.

Many commuters face a daily struggle with congestion on the roads. It is therefore important to further develop a network for sustainable means of transport. The cycle tunnel under the Moorselway on the cycle track between Aalst and Londerzeel, also known as the Leirekensroute, was made possible thanks to EU funding.

Digital entrepreneurial platform for Aalst.

The EU is investing in enterprise. For example, Aalst received support to develop a digital entrepreneurial platform. This is a big improvement for enterprises and start-ups in Aalst, which will make it easier for them to apply for grants, licences and stands and access their files.

Project 'De Keet' supports the circular economy in the region of Aalst

In the circular economy, products and raw materials are to be used and reused as sustainably as possible. Through the De Keet project, the EU supported circular entrepreneurship in the district of Aalst.

Sustainable real estate strategy for local public buildings in Flanders.

Furthermore, the EU supports the climate objectives pursued by local governments. For example, several east-Flanders municipalities such as Haaltert, Herzele, Lede, Ninove, Sint-Lievens-Houtem and Zottegem took part in a European project aimed at supporting cities in developing a sustainable real estate vision for their public buildings. Climate neutrality was the starting point for this.

Guiding vulnerable young people in Denderleeuw, Geraardsbergen and Ninove.

Despite low unemployment, the district of Aalst does have its share of disadvantaged groups. Through a local partnership between Denderleeuw, Geraardsbergen and Ninove, the EU subsidised a project to help vulnerable young people strengthen their position in society and on the labour market.

Strengthening and promoting the city center of Geraardsbergen.

The EU supports the strengthening of city centres. For example, Geraardsbergen received EU financial support through the CENTER-Pro project to safeguard local retail and ensure its success, as well as to promote the city as a location for new and creative start-ups.

Integrating works of art on the hiking trail of the Grand Route Flemish Ardennes in Herzele.

European funds also contribute to rural development. Following in the footsteps of previous and very nice rural projects, quirky works of art were integrated in a part of the Streek-GR Vlaamse Ardennen, in the north-eastern part of the Flemish Ardennes, in Herzele territory, all with EU support.

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