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2.1 The architectural competition
In view of the outlined development of the Leuven station district, the NMBS
“Nationale Maatschappij der Belgische Spoorwegen” (National Society of Belgian
Railways) called an international architectural competition in 1999 for a new railway
platform covering, together with a new footbridge for pedestrians and cyclists
between the station and Kessel-Lo.
These plans exist within the framework of the structural town and country planning
in Flanders, where Leuven is positioned in one of several key points within the
Flemish diamond. Among these specific points, Leuven station is to be considered
a category A station. Leuven station is the fifth largest in Belgium. (fig. 1)
Leuven was first to be connected to the “Gewestelijk Express Net - gen” (Regional
Express Net) (fig. 1) , which, because of the need for an increase in capacity, is to
ensure a rapid connection with the capital. Leuven is also situated on the European
High Speed Train connections line between Brussels and Köln. (fig. 2)
The commissioner, the “Nationale Maatschappij der Belgische Spoorwegen
Hasselt”, also recognises the distinct significance that the station building holds
within the comprehensive project of the station district: the monumental emotional
value of the building, the station as a link to existing traffic flows, as well as to the
form and functions of the buildings which are to be built in the future.1
In addition to the construction of the new platform covering, the station building
itself will be fully renovated from 2009 onwards. The NMBS Holding will renovate
the rear façade according to the original plans, and refurbish all of the exterior
woodwork. The oldwaiting roomswill be reconditioned by removing the suspended
ceilings in the central tower. This will restore the fifteen meter high waiting room
with its sculptures to its former glory. The old floors and walls will be completely
stripped and replaced by a new structure.2