Brusselization

In urban planning, Brusselization (US variant) or Brusselisation (UK variant) (French: bruxellisation; Dutch: verbrusseling) describes unregulated and often chaotic urban redevelopment with little regard for architectural and cultural heritage, resulting in a fragmented cityscape. It typically involves the destruction or replacement of existing properties, particularly in or near historical urban centers, with modern high-rise buildings. The notion originates in its namesake city of Brussels, Belgium, which underwent uncontrolled development in the mid-20th century, particularly from the 1950s to the 1980s. This phenomenon was driven by a combination of factors, including unrestrained real estate speculation, a lack of zoning regulations, as well as the city authorities' laissez-faire approach to city planning. It was also linked to the city's post-war drive to accommodate vehicular traffic and international functions, such as those associated with the 1958 Brussels World's Fair (Expo 58) and the emerging institutions of the European Union.