Aero Performance Lab Hosts Kick-Off of Flemish Permit Tour in Beringen

Last Wednesday evening, the Aero Performance Lab in Beringen had the pleasure of hosting the kick-off of the Flemish permit tour, led by Flemish Minister for Environment Jo Brouns (CD&V). More than 100 entrepreneurs gathered at our facility for an evening of dialogue on the comprehensive reform of permit procedures in Flanders.

The event underlined how the Aero Performance Lab — with spaces such as the wind tunnel hall, the Handlebar and the Aerobar — can serve as an inspiring and versatile venue for high-level meetings, policy discussions and corporate events. Bringing together entrepreneurs, policymakers and local stakeholders, the evening demonstrated how content and location can reinforce one another.

Flanders is currently taking important steps towards a simpler, clearer and faster permit policy. Through an ambitious action programme, the Flemish Government aims to strengthen legal certainty, improve transparency and shorten procedures. As part of this initiative, Minister Brouns is visiting ten Flemish cities to explain how permits should once again function as a lever for sustainable development and economic growth.

No coincidence

The choice of Beringen as the starting point of the tour was no coincidence. The city is facing significant investments in housing, education, infrastructure and economic activity. “Permits are a crucial instrument for local authorities to prepare Beringen for the future. Whether it concerns housing, schools or space for entrepreneurship, legal certainty is essential,” said Mayor Thomas Vints (CD&V).

Following the policy session, participants were invited to take part in a guided tour of the adjacent Belgian Cycling Factory. During the visit, guests gained insight into the in-house paint shop, local bike assembly and the way bicycles are designed and built on site. The tour illustrated how craftsmanship, innovation and full bike personalisation come together within the same ecosystem.

By hosting this kick-off, the Aero Performance Lab once again confirmed its role as a place where innovation, entrepreneurship and dialogue meet — offering a distinctive setting for events that combine content, experience and inspiration.