Tongeren-Borgloon (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Flemish Environment Minister Jo Brons cancelled 9 of 14 Ventori wind turbines, leading to mixed local reactions. 5 are approved, 1 in Riemst, 4 in Tongeren-Borgloon—sparking relief in Riemst and disappointment in Tongeren-Borgloon.
As VRT News reported, Flemish Environment Minister Jo Brons (CD&V) has cancelled 9 of the 14 planned wind turbines in the Ventori project, leading to mixed local reactions. The decision affects Riemst and Tongeren-Borgloon, in the province of l. 5 wind turbines will still receive permits. Minister Brons said the smaller number will reduce the impact while still generating electricity for about 25,000 households.
What are the effects of Jo Brons’ Ventori wind turbine decision on local communities?
Riemst Mayor Marc Vos (CD&V) said he is pleased with the reduction in the number of wind turbines in the Ventori project. He said the municipality is relieved that Minister Jo Brons agrees that the project was too large for the area.
“We are relieved that the minister considers this project too large-scale for a relatively small region,”
Vos said.
“We now have 40 days to respond, and we are therefore also taking our time to thoroughly review the file again,”
Vos added.
The municipal executive in Tongeren-Borgloon reacted less positively. 4 of the 5 approved turbines will be built in that area. Officials said they are disappointed because the project will still have a major effect on the local landscape and communities. Even with the reduction, the turbines represent a significant development.
“For now, we have little understanding of the minister’s decision. We will, of course, thoroughly evaluate and discuss this with the municipal executive next Friday,”
says Environmental Alderman Steve Hoste (Tongeren-Borgloon.nu).The Ventori wind project began in 2021 when 4 companies combined their plans for turbines along the E313 in Tongeren and Riemst. The joint plan originally included 15 turbines.
In June 2025, the companies submitted permit requests for 14 turbines and opened a public consultation, allowing residents to give feedback. More than 3,000 objections and petitions were filed by locals. On December 2, 2025, Flemish Environment Minister Jo Brons (CD&V) rejected 9 turbines.
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