Knokke-Heist – The seaside town of Knokke-Heist is grappling with an identity crisis as its new mayor, Cathy Coudyser, has eliminated the term “exclusive” from the town’s branding, igniting concerns among local opposition regarding tourism and the luxury image that has defined the area.
As VRT News reports, Knokke-Heist has established itself as Belgium’s premier upscale coastal destination over decades. Former Mayor Count Leopold Lippens from the Gemeentebelangen party exercised leadership for over 40 years, significantly shaping the town’s affluent image. He noted that Knokke-Heist attracted wealthy visitors investing in high-end properties, particularly in the Het Zoute district, where it became commonplace to see golf carts navigating the streets and beach bars serving premium champagne.
What is behind Knokke-Heist dropping its ‘exclusive’ label?
Under the new leadership of Mayor Cathy Coudyser, whose party, Gemeentebelangen, is now in opposition, there has been a shift in how the town presents itself. Coudyser announced that “exclusive” will no longer feature in official discussions about the town’s identity, a decision that some see as more than a simple change of terminology.
The opposition raises alarms, asserting that this decision risks severing ties with the very identity that contributed to Knokke-Heist’s success. They fear that the alteration could diminish the town’s allure for affluent visitors and luxury brands.
“Knokke-Heist isn’t exclusive. Quite the opposite. Everyone is welcome here. And preferably people who live and work here. That’s what keeps our community running,”
Coudyser stated. The Gemeentebelangen party criticized Coudyser’s announcement in an open letter, with party member Gaëlle Six expressing her surprise and concern over the implications of removing the term.
Six contended that “exclusive” symbolizes the quality, individuality, and ambition ingrained in Knokke-Heist, attributes that attract both residents and visitors. She warned that its removal could jeopardize the local economy and tourism sector.
Coudyser responded by downplaying the backlash from Gemeentebelangen, claiming they misrepresented her remarks and exaggerated the issue. She argued that her statements were taken out of context and asserted that there is no substantial problem. Instead, she accused the opposition of fostering division rather than promoting constructive dialogue.
“Together with our coalition partner JA!, we stand for a unifying story. I have no problem whatsoever with the fact that the Zoute neighborhood has an exclusive character. We fully support events like the Zoute Grand Prix and the Night of the Zoute. But in our municipality, everyone is welcome,” Coudyser emphasized.
Officials highlight that Knokke-Heist has long been recognized as one of Belgium’s most prestigious coastal towns. Under Lippens’ leadership, the town cultivated an appeal to affluent visitors, promoted luxury amenities, and developed high-value properties, especially in the Het Zoute area. The term “exclusive” became synonymous with the town’s identity and played a role in its economic success. Following the elections in 2024, the political landscape shifted, leading to Coudyser’s ascent as mayor and her controversial stance regarding the label “exclusive,” now sparking extensive public discourse about the town’s evolving image.
, reports 24brussels.
