Oostkerke again ‘most beautiful village in West Flanders’ after renovation?

The entire village center of Oostkerke received a separate sewerage system, through which clean water ends up in nature and the wastewater is purified. The existing asphalt streets with outdated sidewalks have disappeared. A new paving was laid in exposed concrete. The footpaths are made of natural stone. Heitegemstraat and Koolkerkesteenweg have also been renovated.

“The redevelopment of the village center prepares Oostkerke for a new chapter in its rich history. Almost 50 years ago, in 1974, Oostkerke was voted the most beautiful village in West Flanders. After this innovation, we would once again have a great chance of winning that title if the competition were to be held again,” says Mayor Joachim Coens.

Archaeological finds

The works in Oostkerke were featured in the media several times. During the archaeological investigation in Sint-Kwintensstraat and Processieweg, remains of a medieval cemetery were uncovered. Under the current Monnikeredestraat, archaeologists found an old road that led to the disappeared port town of Monnikerede. This confirmed and strengthened a particularly rich history with new insights.

Even though the works in the village center have now been completed, a section of Hoekestraat, from Sint-Guthagostraat, towards Hoeke, still needs to be completed. Due to a shift in the phasing of the works, this street could not be started. The city council is looking at when it can take care of this last part.