Maastricht starts early with the National Tile Removal Contest: nearly 10,000 tiles removed at KKC De Loper schoolyard

Nearly 10,000 tiles replaced by greenery

The outdoor area of KKC De Loper has been completely redesigned in recent months. On a site of over 3,000 square meters, about 60 percent now consists of green and play areas. In total, nearly 10,000 paving tiles have been removed and replaced with plants and natural play spots.

Children plant themselves

In the coming days, the children of KKC De Loper, together with the CNME, will take the final step in greening. They will plant 850 hedge plants, 25 shrubs, and 200 perennials together. All children, from toddlers to group 8, participate. In small groups, they plant their own piece of greenery and thus literally contribute to a greener future.

Official start moment

This morning, alderman Mackus, portfolio holder for green and climate, was present at the official start of this greening campaign.

Alderman Mackus: “By replacing tiles with greenery, we make our city more resilient to heat and extreme rain. The fact that this is done here together with children makes it extra valuable. They not only experience why greening is necessary but also how fun it is to roll up their sleeves. In this way, we invest simultaneously in a healthy living environment and awareness among the next generation.”

Green as an answer to climate and livability

Greening paved areas reduces heat stress, improves water drainage, and provides more space for plants and animals. For children, a green outdoor area also offers more play opportunities and more contact with nature. With projects like this, Maastricht shows that greening is not only a municipal task but something you do together.

Maastricht calls on residents to also participate in the National Tile Removal Contest. Remove tiles from your garden and replace them with greenery. Together, we make the city more beautiful, healthier, and future-proof.