Hasselt - Belgium

### Hasselt: A Vibrant Blend of Tradition and Modernity Nestled in the heart of the Flemish Region of Belgium, Hasselt is the capital of the province of Limburg, boasting a dynamic population of 80,846 as of August 2023. Known for its strategic location between the Campine region to the north and the Hesbaye region to the south, the city is characterized by its rich cultural tapestry and innovative urban planning efforts. With its picturesque old town encircled by charming satellite hamlets like Kiewit and Banneuxwijk, Hasselt stands out as a hub of tradition seamlessly integrated with modern amenities. #### Strengths: A City Thriving on Amenities and Education Hasselt shines in providing top-tier amenities, reflected in its impressive A- score. The city offers an array of shopping venues, restaurants, and entertainment options that cater to both residents and visitors alike. Its cultural scene is vibrant, with a B score in culture and entertainment highlighting Hasselt's commitment to arts, music, and festivals that bring the community together. The education sector stands out as well, earning an A- score for childcare and education. Hasselt boasts several reputable schools and educational institutions that provide quality learning environments, contributing significantly to its high living quality index. #### Commute and Transportation: Balancing Accessibility with Sustainability Hasselt's commute score of B suggests a balanced transportation system, where public transit services play a crucial role in daily life. The city is well-connected by tram stops and an efficient local transport network that underscores sustainable urban planning efforts. Hasselt’s integration within the Meuse-Rhine Euroregion facilitates seamless connectivity with neighboring regions in Wallonia, the Netherlands, and Germany, enhancing its appeal as a commuter-friendly locale. #### Challenges: Addressing Noise and Community Concerns Despite its many strengths, Hasselt faces challenges such as a noise score of C, primarily due to urban activity and traffic. The city is actively working on strategies to mitigate these issues through sustainable urban development initiatives aimed at reducing sound pollution while enhancing the quality of life for residents. The NIMBY (Not In My Back Yard) score of C+ highlights community concerns regarding new developments. Hasselt’s approach involves engaging with citizens in urban redevelopment projects, ensuring that land use and zoning decisions reflect communal needs and aspirations, fostering a more inclusive environment. #### Health and Community: A Commitment to Well-being With a health score of B-, Hasselt demonstrates a strong commitment to providing access to healthcare facilities and services. The city’s focus on health-related quality of life ensures residents enjoy comprehensive medical care, contributing positively to its overall livability ranking. #### Conclusion: A City Poised for Growth Hasselt is a testament to the harmonious blend of historical charm and forward-thinking urban development. While it continues to excel in amenities, education, and healthcare, ongoing efforts to enhance transportation efficiency and address noise concerns are pivotal. With strategic improvements, Hasselt holds significant potential to rise in city livability rankings, offering an enriching living experience that balances tradition with innovation. In summary, Hasselt’s dedication to quality of life, supported by its robust urban planning and community engagement, positions it as a model for sustainable urban livability. As the city evolves, its residents can look forward to a future where every aspect of daily life is enhanced, making Hasselt not only a great place to live but also an exemplar in the global landscape of livable cities.

Hasselt

Country: Belgium

Population: 77651

Area: 102.24 square kilometre

Web: https://www.hasselt.be

Overall score

Total

Amenities

A-

Childcare & Education

A-

Commute

Culture & Entertainment

Health

B-

NIMBY

C+

Noise