In the Marolles, two buildings were demolished for safety reasons after a deadly fire raged in 2019. The houses had a certain historical value but were not protected. Haacht Brewery wants another catering business at the same location.
These are two buildings that used to house two catering establishments: La Grenouille Bleue, at Cellebroersstraat 97, and Les 2 Riad, on the corner of Hoogstraat and Cellebroersstraat. The catering establishments have been closed for several years, and at least one of the two buildings was squatted.
In the summer of 2019, a fire broke out in the squat on the corner. One fatal victim was regrettable. The buildings were also significantly damaged.
Due to stability problems, mayor Philippe Close (PS) issued a decision to demolish. The structure was damaged to such an extent that it was the only option, to prevent further degradation and illegal occupation. The decision dates from before the summer of 2022, but the demolition only started in December and was completed this week.
Heritage
The buildings were not protected and were not on the inventory of the immovable heritage. Still, the buildings had some historical value. For example, the building in Cellebroersstraat had wall anchors that indicate an older core, and a preserved round-arched window in the simplified traditional top of the roof, dating from the 17th century.
But according to Ans Persoons (One.Brussels-Vooruit), the Cabinet of Aldermen for Urban Development, there was no other option than to proceed with the demolition. During an inspection, the Urban Planning Control Service and the Heritage Service of the City of Brussels have determined that all elements with any heritage value have unfortunately been irreparably destroyed.
‘Again a Restaurant Business’
The site is owned by Haacht Brewery. He says that the intention is that a catering business will be built again at this iconic location in the long term. “The architect of the brewery has also drawn up some concept plans, but no decisions have been made yet,” it sounds there. A building permit application has not yet been submitted.
This article is originally published on bruzz.be
