Wartkom is located on the banks of the canal linking the city with the Scheldt. Until a few decades ago, this was the most important route for freight transport, so factories (mainly breweries), warehouses and elevators were built near the water so that goods and raw materials could be easily loaded and unloaded.
Now the situation has changed, and although some breweries are still functioning, most of the industrial buildings are occupied by offices or theaters, discos and cafes. However, the surroundings of these buildings have not changed since the days of industrial prosperity. This scares off potential tenants and visitors, although Wartcom is within walking distance of Leuven's historic center.
The architects suggest that housing should also appear in the area so that its development becomes truly multifunctional. In order to attract residents, entrepreneurs and simply resting citizens to Wartkom, it is planned to turn the marinas on the canal into green esplanades with terraces, connect all buildings with a network of paths and squares, and place the necessary technical spaces under the viaduct passing through the area. All areas suitable for this are planned to be landscaped.
