I’ve worked in real estate long enough to know that delays happen. But some delays make you pause — personally and professionally. The recent suspension of the redevelopment at Fonsny, near Brussels-Midi, is one of them. Likke many, I hoped this project would be a turning point — a redefinition of how Brussels meets the world at one of its most important gateways. Instead, we’re watching a flagship regeneration site go quiet. Not cancelled. But paused — indefinitely. But this isn’t just about one project. It’s about what it tells us: 🔍 How do we manage complexity in public-led developments? 🏗 How do we steward valuable land while we wait? ⏳ And how do we turn a pause… into something productive? Because in this industry, pauses are inevitable. But how we use them defines what comes next. This isn’t unprecedented. 📍 King’s Cross, London — once stalled, now a global benchmark for phased regeneration. 📍 Bjørvika, Oslo — activated through culture before bricks and mortar were ready. 📍 Zuidasdok, Amsterdam — infrastructure delays offset by transparency and trust. In every case, the interim years weren’t wasted — they were formative. These cities built momentum while the timeline caught up. So what can we do differently — and better — here? ✅ Activate spaces, even when the future is undecided ✅ Phase ambition into tangible, fundable steps ✅ Align public and private actors before the headlines ✅ Treat public land as performance-driven assets, not placeholders At JLL we work across capital, policy, and place. We don’t just advise on what gets built — we help shape what happens when plans shift. Because progress isn’t always linear. Sometimes, it’s strategic patience that sets the stage for lasting impact. I still believe in Fonsny. Not just as a development site — but as a symbol. Brussels deserves visible ambition at its front doors. Let’s make sure the next step forward — however long it takes — reflects that vision. 💬 Have you seen cities navigate moments like this well? What worked? What didn’t? Let’s share lessons. Because how we respond now…might shape how this part of Brussels is seen for generations. 👇
Fully agree and this situation is going on for decade since 1997 !
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1moGreat and valuable post Sebastian as it affects so many and there is not much worse when it drags out or stop. Comunication and interaction is one key to turn it around. It's like having a plan B when plan A fail. Before even start on the project there has to be a point that says What if?