Flanders in Belgium is distinguished by several magnificent historical inner cities of medieval origin and characterized by a wide spread ribbon (urban) development, which fills the space between the historical centers. This development has lead to a continuous sprawl. Today nearly all growth in Flanders is in the empty outskirts, making the city with its characterized mixed program and densities seem a superseded model.

In Gent, there is a unique possibility to go against this pattern of development and concentrate growth in a zone that will become part of the inner city when the ring road is extended. In a unique way, it is possible to compliment the historical center with a new part that answers to the modern needs of mass infrastructure and liveability.