Sint-Genesius-Rode (Eurotoday) – The municipality of Sint-Genesius-Rode may proceed with purchasing the historic Villa Dirickz for €2.3 million. While Mayor Pierre Rolin backs the acquisition, opposition party Accent 1640 has raised concerns over the cost, urging the town to prioritize more urgent community needs.
Villa Dirickz, which has changed ownership multiple times over the years, is currently up for sale again. Located in the Province of Flemish Brabant, Belgium, the villa is seen as a significant architectural landmark. Mayor Rolin has expressed interest in purchasing the property, emphasizing that the town has until April 19, 2025, to finalize a decision.
The local council announced that the proposal would be discussed in an upcoming meeting. However, they currently lack a concrete plan for the building’s use, echoing past instances where the municipality acquired properties without clear long-term strategies.
Supporters of the purchase argue that acquiring Villa Dirickz would preserve a valuable piece of local heritage. Potential uses being considered include transforming it into a museum or a community center. However, some residents and local officials remain skeptical, citing the absence of a defined purpose.
Will Sint-Genesius-Rode Purchase Villa Dirickz for €2.3M?
Mayor Rolin believes acquiring Villa Dirickz would be a landmark achievement for the municipality. He described the villa as the most important historic building in Sint-Genesius-Rode and expressed excitement about the possibility of opening it to the public. He also noted that the surrounding land could help address local water management issues.
The mayor acknowledged some structural issues with the building, which would require renovation work. Still, he emphasized that the price was significantly lower than its previous listing of €7.5 million. The town may also seek financial support from the regional government and private investors to share the renovation costs.
“The building was once for sale for 7.5 million euros. The current owner is asking 2.3 million euros, so that is reasonable,” Mayor Rolin said.
However, Jan Rombaut of opposition party Accent 1640 argues the municipality should focus on more pressing concerns. He pointed to the need to renovate public infrastructure, support the local cultural center, and assist community organizations facing financial challenges.
Rombaut also highlighted that a private buyer was already interested in the villa, complicating the matter. He estimated that the purchase would cost each resident approximately €120, raising questions about whether it’s a wise investment.
Villa Dirickz is situated on Maria Joanalaan in Sint-Genesius-Rode. Built in the 1920s for Henri Dirickx, a steel magnate, the villa was designed by renowned Belgian architect Marcel Leborgne. The structure is known for its modernist style, featuring clean lines, concrete elements, and large glass windows.
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