Old Monastery Walem: After years of vacancy, the historic monastery at Koning Albertstraat 60-62 in Walem (Sub-municipality of Mechelen (Belgium)) is getting a new future. Thanks to a close collaboration between the town and developer Fullerstone, the former monastery will be redeveloped into a modern residential project. The complex will include 32 new residential units, along with a catering establishment and an association hall for 150 people. Talks are also under way on the possibility of a public bank account facility. Construction work is expected to start in early 2026.
Restoration of Historical Heritage
The original monastery, built in 1867 by the Sisters of Our Lady of Mercy, is being carefully restored. The historic facades, roofs and staircases are being restored to their former glory. In addition to the homes, space is being made for catering on the ground floor. The environmental permit is expected to be submitted at the end of 2024.
New life for Walem
The redevelopment of the Old Monastery offers more than just housing. The project breathes new life into the heart of Walem, with a combination of housing, hospitality and an association hall bringing the community together. Mayor Bart Somers explains: “This project is an opportunity to breathe new life into the beating heart of Walem. Here will be a place where people can meet, which fits perfectly into our vision of a town that lives and connects.”
Strengthening Community Spirit
Alderman for Town Planning, Greet Geypen, stresses that this project is in line with the policy of keeping village centres liveable without large-scale expansion. “We looked at what fits within the character of Walem. The association hall and catering establishment will strengthen the neighbourhood and are important parts of a liveable community,” Geypen said.
Green Space and Marian grotto
The project also includes a 1,900 m² publicly accessible park and a Marian grotto, where local residents can relax. Four tall trees will be preserved, and a playground will be added. This will give an extra green dimension to the residential project.
Underground Parking Garage and Local Amenities
To relieve the parking pressure, an underground parking garage with 33 spaces will be built. In addition, two shared cars will be made available for local residents. The Muskenstraat will be widened to improve the accessibility of the area. There will also be a neighborhood parking lot at the Arena sports hall, while the existing basketball court will be retained.
Developer Edwin Van Regenmortel of Fullerstone concludes: “Het Oud Klooster is a place full of history as well as potential. We want to preserve the historical character, but also give it a contemporary interpretation. This project will add value to Walem.”
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