Flanders plans fast-track permits for defence projects

The Flemish government is working on a fast-track procedure to speed up permits for defence projects and the defence industry, as part of Belgium’s efforts to boost military spending.

Flemish minister for the environment Jo Brouns aims to introduce a special decree and a dedicated department to ensure that critical military infrastructure and production facilities can be developed without delays.

“We cannot allow bureaucratic hurdles to slow down our security efforts”, Brouns said, citing growing geopolitical tensions and Belgium’s increased defence investment.

”We cannot allow bureaucratic hurdles to slow down our security efforts”

Critical infrastructure

Currently, the Belgian military can already build strategic installations on its own sites without prior permits. The new plan would extend this exemption to other key locations in Flanders, such as energy hubs and major transport links. 

For example, it would be possible to install air defence systems around the Port of Antwerp without delay - something ports like Rotterdam and Hamburg are already have, 

Long procedures

At present, the defence industry is subject to the standard, often lengthy, environmental permit process. Brouns wants to change this with a ‘turbo decree’, allowing emergency procedures in times of crisis or military threat.

The decree would enable the rapid launch of military production, bypassing months of administrative waiting times. However, its application would be “temporary and proportional” and only in case of a direct threat or armed conflict.

A practical example: If a private company wanted to restart military production in the vacant Van Hool factories in Koningshooikt, the decree would allow it to obtain permits swiftly and begin production in an emergency.

Additionally, a ‘VIP desk’ will be set up within the Environment Department to assist the defence sector with permit applications, environmental impact assessments, and other administrative procedures. This central point of contact aims to streamline and accelerate processes.

^{#FlandersNewsService | A military vehicle in the Port of Antwerp during a Belgium-U.S. military rotational operation © BELGA PHOTO JAMES ARTHUR GEKIERE}