Opel’s former manufacturing plant in Belgium consisted of 96 hectares, 34 of those being for offices alone. The CEO of the port of Antwerp say that since Opel vacated the premises, it is now ready to be taken over by a company, especially one involved in the metal works or chemicals sector.
“This is a unique site,” Eddy Bruyninckx told Flanders Today. “It’s not every year that you’re able to put something like this on offer. Even the trimodal connection possibilities are unique.”
However, it is difficult to find a company to take over the whole complex, especially with the January 15, 2015 deadline. Companies that fit that bill will receive preference, but the site could also be divided. “Major projects don’t just fall out of the sky, although we do think the time is right,” Bruyninckx said. “We are looking mainly at manufacturing industries. Our figures show that is where the most added value and employment opportunities lie.”
Proposals go before a reconversion committee chaired by a Belgian industrialist. Once accepted, the agreement could then be completed “in a matter of months.”
Comment
When I look at the title photo all I see in that red outline is a race course. Either clockwise or counter-clockwise.