Discover the ambitious urban renewal project of the Old Docks, where Ghent's past, present and future intersect.

The formerly neglected industrial harbor area is undergoing an impressive transformation to become a vibrant, multifunctional city district, honoring the maritime past and simultaneously meeting modern urban needs.

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Ghent has a rich history in seeking an outlet to the sea, from the medieval city port on the river Leie to the Ghent-Terneuzen canal. After WWII port activities moved northwards, leaving the Old Docks in disrepair. The Ghent city development company SoGent drew up a master plan to transform the three oldest docks into a new city district with 1,500 residential units, offices, shops, recreation, public facilities and three neighborhood parks. New bridges connect this area to the city center. The redesigned quays and industrial cranes refer to the maritime past and form an attractive place for walking and cycling.

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