Keerbergen – Keerbergen is set to launch a €12,000 initiative aimed at enhancing wheelchair access to local businesses. Led by Alderman An Wauters, the project will see ramps installed at a cost of up to €400 per business, with implementation beginning in September 2025, reports 24brussels.
This fall, the municipality in Flemish Brabant, Belgium, will commence efforts to improve accessibility for wheelchair users across shops, restaurants, and service providers. Local officials will conduct assessments to identify entry barriers such as steps, narrow walkways, and heavy doors.
Keerbergen’s €12k Accessibility Plan: Aiming for Inclusive Business
Alderman An Wauters (Vooruit), who uses a wheelchair, shared her personal experience regarding the challenges faced when navigating businesses independently.
“When you do not have someone with you, it becomes very hard,”
The municipality has allocated €12,000 specifically to assist local businesses in enhancing their wheelchair accessibility. City officials opted for immediate, practical solutions instead of waiting for lengthy renovation processes. The focus is on swiftly-installable ramps.
“You could wait until businesses undergo renovations to address the problem thoroughly. But we are choosing to take action now. A ramp like this can be installed in a flash,”
The ramps will be installed by the non-profit organization Dito, with the municipality covering costs for businesses up to €400.
The rollout is set to begin next week, with Dito teams visiting establishments in Keerbergen that currently lack wheelchair access. They will propose necessary ramp installations and assist business owners directly.
The municipality encourages entrepreneurs to proactively seek improvements. Starting September 2025, a dedicated form will be available on the municipal website for business owners to apply for this service.
“We want to make it as easy as possible for every business to take part,”
Alderman Wauters commented.
