AP University College Site Visit: A Look at Restoration Projects in Antwerp

On Monday, 24 February 2025, seventy first-year students from the Associate Degree programme in Site Organisation at AP University College will get a unique opportunity to dive into real-life practice. As part of the course module Construction Site Organisation, two exceptional restoration sites in Antwerp take centre stage: the historic St. James's Church and the large-scale renovation of the Royal Atheneum and Primary School De Pijl.

What connects both sites is a remarkable historical fact: each has suffered multiple fires in the past, which led to the replacement of the original timber structure with concrete. This makes both sites not only technically fascinating but also an ideal case to explore the challenges of site organisation in a dense urban environment. With hundreds of factors to consider, students gain a realistic picture of the complexity involved in managing a construction site.

St. James’s Church: A Historic Gem in the City

The restoration of St. James’s Church presents several logistical challenges. A massive tower crane was strategically positioned to keep the only access road clear for circulation. In addition, thousands of square metres of scaffolding — both interior and exterior — had to be delivered, where pallet jacks turned out to be the only viable transport solution. The crane position was determined by the massive church tower, which also required the installation of loading and unloading platforms in the “armpit zones” of the church.

Royal Atheneum and De Pijl Primary School: Managing a Site in a Lively Environment

The renovation of the Royal Atheneum and De Pijl Primary School involves a very different dynamic. Since both schools remain open during construction, safety is the absolute priority. The site organisation is made even more complex by the presence of pupils, busy roads around the school, and limited parking options. Additionally, constant attention must be paid to keeping sidewalks and crossings accessible for school children.

A Practical Assignment

To apply their newly gained insights, students are given a hands-on assignment: create your own site layout plan for the Royal Atheneum. A fun twist? The assignment deadline coincides exactly with the day the real-life site setup takes place in Antwerp — the perfect opportunity to connect theory with reality.

Special thanks to Execution Director Steven Vermeersch, Project Manager Griet Emonts-Gast, Site Supervisors Ken Van Hecke and Vince Geudens, Maud Ducasteele.

Would you like to work on unique and challenging projects like this after your studies? Want to be part of our extended Monument family? Then click on 'JOBS' above and select the vacancy that suits you, or apply spontaneously!

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