VDL De Meeuw wins framework contract for building detention centres in Belgium

VDL De Meeuw has been selected by the Office of the Buildings as the winner of the framework agreement for the construction of small-scale detention centres in Belgium. These innovative facilities are a crucial part of enforcing short sentences and focus on reintegration and self-sufficiency. Thanks in particular to the pioneering self-developed modular construction method, VDL De Meeuw emerged as the best party in the tendering process. In addition to the 600 accommodation places in detention centres, the federal government can use the framework agreement for other projects with a total of 500 additional residential and reception units.

The awarded framework agreement, valued at over 200 million euros, primarily includes the construction of detention centres across Belgium. VDL De Meeuw, part of the VDL Groep, will contribute to the quick and efficient realisation of these facilities with its self-developed modular building systems. Prefabricated construction methods offer several advantages. They enable the rapid realisation of fully functional buildings that meet all modern standards.

Order value

In the framework contract, the federal government can purchase modular living units over a four-year period for a total of 1,100 accommodation places. Of these, 600 are intended for multiple detention centers, while the remaining 500 can be flexibly used at desired locations to address other accommodation shortages. This can include units for Defence and the reception of asylum seekers.

Procurement

During the procurement procedure, the strengths of the proposal from VDL De Meeuw and DETOO Architects have been extensively recognized. The awarding report indicates that the proposed solutions offer considerable added value in several areas:

• Efficient and safe layout: the straight, clear corridor structure within the living units and cell sections optimises surveillance and interventions by detention staff. The central location of stairwells and elevators ensures optimal circulation between all zones in the building.
• Strict implementation deadline: thanks to the high level of prefabrication, VDL De Meeuw is capable of meeting the strict construction timelines set by the Directorate-General for Public Works and Water Management.
• Sustainability as a priority: the design incorporates passive energy techniques, such as sun shading and demand-controlled ventilation, to reduce energy consumption. A share of renewable energy of at least 25 kWh/m² per year can be guaranteed through, among other things, heat pumps and solar panels.

Social transition

Chief Executive Willem van der Leegte of VDL Group: “VDL De Meeuw operates in ‘our world’ of Infratech, an important growth market for VDL Groep. Given the significant societal need for various forms of housing, we see great potential in the modular construction market. This way, we can achieve the desired acceleration: with shorter lead times, reusable, sustainable, and indistinguishable from traditional construction. We are also happy to contribute to this societal transition.”

Added value

Hans Vonck, director of VDL De Meeuw Belgium: "We are very proud of this award. It demonstrates that our innovative modular building system is not only of high quality but also perfectly responds to the sometimes very strict requirements of such buildings. This recognition motivates us to do our utmost to bring this challenge to a successful conclusion. Furthermore, this project creates job guarantees and associated jobs in our manufacturing facilities."