Landmark Saint-Josse Church to undergo 10-year, €10 million renovation

The Saint-Josse city council has announced that an agreement has been made with the Catholic Church for the renovation of the landmark Saint-Josse Church on Chaussée de Louvain (pictured). “Such great news to be able to share during the Christmas season,” said mayor Emir Kir.

The total cost of the renovation is estimated at €10 million, with 80% funded by the Brussels region. The municipality of Saint-Josse will manage the project, which it expects to take 10 years.

The Roman Catholic Church hosts weekend services and has been a protected monument since 2009. It was built in neo-baroque style in the late 19th century. It was built to serve the exploding population of Saint-Josse, which was a village of 2,000 people the year Belgium became a state and a bustling district of the capital with 30,000 residents by the time the church was built.

Work will be done to stabilise the infrastructure, restore the architectural elements inside and out and improve the utilities. “This church is an important part of the history of Saint-Josse and its people,” said public works city councillor Mohammed Jabour. “This is a major step in preserving our heritage.”

Photo ©Thierry Roge/BELGA