Hippodrome

The Brussels-Capital Region has granted the SAU-MSI a 99-year long-term lease on the Uccle-Boitsfort racecourse, which covers an area of 32.5 hectares and comprises 29 buildings.

The missions include on the one hand, to ensure the renovation of the main historic buildings; and, on the other hand, to organise the development of this site, which is classified both as a gateway to the Sonian Forest and as a recreational green space for families. This is done with respect for its natural and architectural heritage.

Historic buildings

• On the 12th of August 2014, the SAU-MSI launched the ambitious renovation project, at a total cost of 6 million euros, of the four most emblematic buildings of the racecourse: the large grandstand, the small grandstand, the weighing building and the referees' tower. The restored buildings were delivered at the beginning of summer 2016 and inaugurated in mid-September 2016.
• In December 2020, the SAU-MSI began a new campaign to restore buildings on the site. This second phase focuses on several other elements of high heritage value of the old racecourse: the two main entrances, the two betting halls, the tunnel under the old racing ring and the forester's house.  The work was completed early 2022.
• In March 2024, the 3rd phase of work began, resuming the restoration of the Stable located near the main entrance and the restoration of the barn, in collaboration with Brussels Environment.

Site development

• To ensure the development of the recreational green space, the SAU-MSI has appointed a private concessionaire, the company Droh!me, for a period of 15 years starting the first of July 2014. Droh!me was selected as part of a call for tenders at Belgian and European level, on the basis of strict criteria: respect and enhancement of the natural and architectural heritage; free access to the majority of the site; quality of recreational, educational and/or cultural proposals; including activities specifically for children; multi-seasonal nature of the activities; environmental management of the project; mobility; etc.
• In November 2020, the programming and governance of the activation of the old racecourse were reviewed, while maintaining the Region's initial objectives. In addition to the development of a playground on a regional scale, Brussels Environment is now also in charge of the redevelopment and management of the old horse riding track into a linear sports and family park, as well as a relaxation meadow inside the ring.  

Infrastructures

• The racecourse's infrastructure (sewerage, water and energy supply networks, etc.) also required complete modernisation given its dilapidation, linked to the long history of the racecourse. Its origins date back to 1875; the two galleries were erected in 1878; the weighing building and the large stables were built around 1900. Since that time, the infrastructure has not been modernised and has become obsolete. The works to completely renovate the sewage works was carried out by the SAU-MSI in 2023.