Flemish Permit Reform Tour Launched at the Aero Performance Lab

Last Wednesday evening, the Aero Performance Lab in Beringen hosted the kick-off of the Flemish permit tour led by Flemish Minister for Environment Jo Brouns (CD&V). More than 100 entrepreneurs gathered at the site for an evening of dialogue on the comprehensive reform of permit procedures in Flanders. The event also showcased the Aero Performance Lab — including its wind tunnel hall, the Handlebar and the Aerobar — as a unique and versatile event venue.

Flanders is taking important steps towards a simpler, clearer and faster permit policy. Through an ambitious action programme, the Flemish Government aims to strengthen legal certainty, improve transparency and shorten procedures. As part of this initiative, Minister Brouns is visiting ten Flemish cities to explain how permits should once again function as a lever for sustainable development and economic growth.

The decision to launch the tour in Beringen was no coincidence. The city is facing major investments in housing, education, infrastructure and economic activity. “Permits are a crucial instrument for local authorities to prepare Beringen for the future. Whether it concerns housing, schools or space for entrepreneurship, legal certainty is essential. As a city, we welcome the fact that Flanders continues to work towards a permit policy that offers clarity and legal certainty,” said Mayor Thomas Vints (CD&V).

Guided tour

Following the policy session, participants were invited to join a guided tour of the Belgian Cycling Factory. During the visit, they gained insight into our in-house paint shop, local bike assembly and the way bicycles are designed and built on site. The tour illustrated how we are able to fully personalise each bike, from colour and finish to final assembly, thanks to our integrated production model in Beringen.

Jochim Aerts, CEO of Belgian Cycling Factory, welcomed the start of the permit tour at the site. “Ridley Bikes invests in Beringen in high-tech production, innovation and employment. This requires a permit framework that is clear and predictable. The strong commitment shown by the Flemish authorities, and their willingness to explain these reforms on site, sends an important signal to companies that want to continue investing in Flanders,” Aerts emphasised.