'Courtyard Crushers' start desealing private land

Before the summer of 2025, project partners Ghent Environmental Front and the City of Ghent selected Sint-Daniëlstraat in Ledeberg, one of the test neighbourhoods within Rewild, as their first pilot project. They talked to all the residents in order to respond to their needs as effectively as possible and to announce the Courtyard Crushers' services. Many residents responded enthusiastically. In November, the Courtyard Crushers desealed the first courtyards.

Over the next two years, they will continue their work in the three pilot neighbourhoods. Residents can call on them for advice and guidance on removing courtyards or driveways, disposing of or reusing tiles and rubble, or planting greenery. Depending on the request, the Courtyard Crushers will provide a democratic price quote in advance.

Together with the residents

‘The Courtyard Crushers never work on their own, but always together with local residents,’ says coordinator Steffi Boelens (Ghent Environmental Front). ‘That’s what we already do with our Vertical Garden Brigade, and we notice it time and time again: demolishing tiles and concrete together forges bonds that last a lifetime.’

More information: www.stad.gent/koerkrakers