IDEA Consult supported the Wallonia Public Service (SPW) in drawing up Wallonia’s first strategy for the development of business parks up to 2050, a key initiative aimed at reindustrialising the Region. Faced with challenges relating to land availability, industrial attractiveness and the transition to a more sustainable economy, the aim of the project was to objectively assess future requirements for industrial land and to rethink the mechanisms for the development, allocation and financing of business parks. This strategy is a key driver in ensuring Wallonia’s capacity to accommodate the growth of industrial, logistics and innovative activities over the coming decades.

In the first phase, IDEA Consult quantified the available land area, assessed future needs linked to economic growth and developed a novel tool for forecasting spatial demand, combining GIS analyses and macroeconomic projections.

This approach made it possible to identify gaps between the existing land supply and future needs, as well as the main points of saturation. The second phase was devoted to engaging the relevant stakeholders. IDEA Consult supported the redefinition of each party’s roles in the development, management and allocation of business parks. The work focused in particular on shifting the funding model towards a system of performance-based contracts, clarifying governance mechanisms, optimising the monitoring of land availability, and adapting the legal framework to European and regional regulatory requirements. This participatory approach enabled the development of a shared vision that balances operational efficiency, transparency and financial sustainability.

In addition to defining the strategy, IDEA Consult also supported its implementation through dialogue with the Walloon Government and by presenting the findings to the Walloon Parliament.

Our presentation to Parliament can be viewed at the 5-hour mark via the following link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wtGhMAX5CIg

The recommendations put forward aim, in particular, to enhance predictability for public operators, increase transparency regarding land availability and better mobilise private investment in regional economic development. The strategic document, submitted to the Walloon Government for approval, now represents a key step towards modernising the Walloon model of economic development and consolidating the conditions necessary for the region’s reindustrialisation.