Izegem – The Eperon d’Or museum will transition into an open heritage centre as part of its new role under the 2026–2031 multi-year plan. This change, announced by local officials, marks a significant shift from its traditional function, with plans for visitors to access the shoe and brush collection free of charge, reports 24brussels.
Located in West Flanders, the museum has faced annual losses of €650,000, which Alderman Sam Wets identified as evidence that the conventional museum model is no longer viable. Filip Buyse, the Alderman for Finance, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for prudent management of public funds during the transition.
“Every euro cent of tax money must be managed like a good father,”
Filip Buyse stated, illustrating the administration’s commitment to fiscal responsibility.
The new plan includes housing for associations within the historic Eperon d’Or building, alongside a new public library. This decision arose as it became apparent that the adjacent Cultuurfabriek would lack adequate space for these essential services.
What will Izegem’s Eperon d’Or offer as Heritage Centre art pool?
Plans for the Cultuurfabriek now focus solely on establishing a new art academy, with a modern indoor swimming pool to be constructed as well. City leaders assert that these initiatives will preserve cultural heritage while introducing contemporary facilities for arts and sports.
“With room for more than 2,000 Art’lz students, who will finally be taught in modern settings,”
the multi-year plan detailed.
The city council stressed that these developments will not result in higher local taxes. Mayor Kurt Grymonprez highlighted that the administration aims to improve the quality of life in Izegem without imposing additional financial burdens on residents. The multi-year plan is focused on livability, accessibility, and strategic investment over the next five years.
“For example, an additional community watch will be deployed, and the city will be made cleaner. At the same time, a targeted tax on night shops will be introduced to protect the livability of the town centres,”
Mayor Grymonprez noted.
Originally built in 1912, the Eperon d’Or has served as a cultural nucleus, hosting exhibitions and community gatherings over the years. In 2022, officials began exploring renovations to incorporate a library and community spaces, assessing the capabilities of the newly opened Cultuurfabriek, which could only accommodate the art academy.
