The action group ‘Bernadette Blijft’ fought from late 2020 to late 2021 to prevent the demolition of Sint-Bernadette. This garden neighbourhood, built in 1923, was known for its picturesque yellow houses. But Bernadette also had a reputation as the ‘mold district.’ The 190 homes had deteriorated over time and were set to be replaced by a new social housing project with 250 energy-efficient homes, meeting contemporary housing needs.
Social housing neighbourhood 'Sint-Bernadette', 2022, © Brecht Van Maele, STAM inv. A2023.018.538
Instead of demolition, activists called for renovation, ‘block by block.’ To them, Bernadette was much more than a problem neighbourhood. Some even moved in themselves. Together with residents, they highlighted the friendship and solidarity within the community. The demolition not only meant losing a valuable piece of architectural history but also a strong sense of community.
Despite the protests, the demolition went ahead. In September 2022, the first houses were torn down. Residents were offered alternative social housing. By 2029, the new Bernadette neighbourhood should be completed.
This banner is on display in the exhibition 'The Gates' until 31 August 2025.
