Landscape Vision for Het Groene Spoor

PLUSOFFICE, in collaboration with Overlant, Anyways, and Mieco-effect, developed an integrated landscape and design vision for the IJzerenweg cycling connection in the Gete Valley, covering the municipalities of Hoegaarden, Tienen, Linter, Geetbets, and Zoutleeuw. The assignment for Het Groene Spoor (The Green Track) is a broad transformation challenge that functions as a catalyst project within the strategic initiative “OnverGETElijk!”

At the heart of this catalyst project lies the redevelopment of the old railway bed known as the IJzerenweg, currently a popular axis for recreational walking and cycling, as well as for functional bike commuting. Simultaneously, it serves as an important green corridor home to many species that crosses or borders several key nature zones in the Gete Valley. In this way, the IJzerenweg becomes a green structure running through the Gete region with enormous potential as a (bio)diverse network of nature areas, a component of the valley landscape, a recreational route, and a practical connection between villages.

The scope is broad and spans numerous disciplines. The aim is to formulate transformation strategies that generate win-win outcomes for nature & (water)landscape, agriculture, sustainable mobility, and soft recreation. The assignment thus focused on these four central themes.

To make the 26 km route manageable, it was divided into 18 segments, enabling more precise analysis of specific topics along the trail. Those cycling Het Groene Spoor will notice how the surrounding landscape character shifts quickly. Based on these observations, the route was assigned various “colors” according to sub-landscape types: a green corridor through residential or built-up areas, semi-open or open landscapes, and predominantly agricultural zones. To better assess and visualize opportunities within each segment, an “opportunity compass” was developed. This compass evaluates the degree to which opportunities arise in the four thematic areas. These insights form the foundation for the final landscape vision and action plan, which outlines a project structure for implementing the vision for Het Groene Spoor.

Location: Getevallei (Hoegaarden, Tienen, Linter, Geetbets & Zoutleeuw)
Team: PLUSOFFICE, Overlant, Anyways, Mieco-effect
Client: Province Vlaams-Brabant