Commission to build new mega conference centre in Brussels

The European Commission is planning on constructing a new conference to replace its three-decades-old existing event venue.

Its existing Albert Borschette conference centre on the rue de Froissart, just off the Jourdan square, will no longer be used to host conferences. According to Echo, the location of the new, still-to-be-constructed building hasn’t yet been announced.

“Ideally, the new conference building would be situated in the heart of the European quarter, as close as possible to the Schuman square,” a European Commission document announcing the construction plans stated.

The Borschette building has been in use for more than 35 years and no longer meets current energy consumption and safety regulations. Close to 4,000 events are organised there annually.

The new building will boast 29 conference rooms, office spaces, a car park, a cafeteria and a daycare. It will be able to accommodate 2,400 visitors. The building's construction is expected to carry a price tag of €155 million.

Photo courtesy Flickr page DG EMPL

Written by Linda A. Thompson