Flemish Soil Decree amendment and new Hoogerheide business opening

In Flanders, the Flemish Government has approved an amendment to the Soil Decree to strengthen guarantees for the execution and financing of legal remediation obligations. Under the principle of “the polluter pays,” parent companies may now be designated as co-remediators if their subsidiary lacks sufficient financial capacity to cover soil cleanup costs. This measure aims to prevent the public sector from having to advance funds for remediation when an insolvent subsidiary is part of a larger, financially capable corporate group.

Additionally, the Public Waste Agency of Flanders (OVAM) will receive expanded powers to enforce the requirement for financial securities through enforceable orders, including the ability to use seizures, general privileges, and legal mortgages.

In Hoogerheide, entrepreneurs Kristie van Ginneken and Renate Hopmans are preparing to open BIJ ONS, a new coffee bar and kitchen, in the autumn. Located in the Raadhuisstraat, the establishment aims to provide a nostalgic, living-room-like atmosphere featuring a bar, kitchen, and seating area.