Belgium’s rail operator SNCB is looking for developers for about 5.5 acres of space underneath one of Brussels’ main rail stations, the Gare du Midi.
The space, nicknamed ‘the palaces,’ and fitted with distinctive curved pillars and relatively low ceilings, has been vacant since the 1980s. Until recently, the railroad was reluctant to lease the spaces for feat that they might be a fire hazard.
Now, however, they are ready to move forward and are expecting bids from companies that might use the space for retail, conferences, sports venues or more—and presumably any bids will need to address the safety issues.
The railroad itself is holding on to about an acre of the space while considering plans to build an underground bicycle parking facility.
