Plan to uncover Brussels’ hidden Senne river in Maximilien Park on hold due to lack of funding

The project to open up the river Senne in Brussels has been put on hold because the capital does not have the money to finance it.

Without a fully functioning government, there are no funds to uncover the river over a 650m stretch in Maximilien Park, Brussels environment minister confirmed to Brussels Parliament.

Work was due to begin this year on opening up part of the mythical river that was completely vaulted and covered up in the 19th century due to its health risks.

Planning permission for the project was granted in July 2024 as part of a campaign to revitalise many municipalities in Brussels’ northern quarter.

The renovated Maximilien Park was destined to become a green oasis. As well as ts heritage water feature, it would link to other public spaces undergoing renovation, including Place Sainctelette. The new green space was also to be linked via the bridge on Place des Armateurs to the Tour & Taxis park, that stretches to Place Bockstael.