On the genesis of an urban policy in Flanders, Belgium

Conclusion Inner-city decay took place gradually over many decades. As a matter of fact, improving the inner city is also a slow process; this goal cannot be achieved within one term of office. The city must regain the trust of the inhabitants. Plans must be drawn up, land and buildings must be purchased, and advisory bodies must be established. This is a complicated matter. Moreover, the rules of the game have changed. That is why the first convenant has great experimental value. Both the framework of the SIF and the convenant must be given a chance to grow. If the dilapidated neighbourhoods do not show improvement yet, and if the confidence of the population is not regained within a three-year period, we can only hope that the baby will not be thrown out with the bathwater. Above all, the urban policy requires stability and continuity if it is to thrive. Bascal de Decker studied sociology and urban planning at the State University of Ghent. He is expert at the Cabinet of the Flemish Minister of Internal Affairs, Urban Policy and Housing, Brussels.