Diksmuide
Repurposing the train station in Diksmuide into a multifunctional hub and promoting local food products in West Flanders
Description
Diksmuide is a municipality in the province of West Flanders comprising Diksmuide and its 14 communes. The main economic activity in the region is dairy farming, and the famous Diksmuide butter. The ticket office of the train station in Diksmuide closed in 2021 and had a marked impact on the local community until a local organization decided to repurpose the train station in 2023 under the Smart Rural 27 initiative. The proposed smart solution has multiple features, including skills training, marketing local food, digital support and bike services.
Technology
The De Boomhut organisation has come up with a smart solution with multiple functions for commuters: 1) the development of an outlet for the sale of local agricultural products (through 24-hour vending machines) and the reinstalment of a helpdesk for train passengers who are unable to buy train tickets from the machines (digital divide); 2) the creation of a bike library, a bike riding school and safe vault for bikes, in collaboration with the municipality; 3) the launch of local community activities encouraging commercial product development, such as the Woppaaaa fortune chocolate; and 4) a web-based application and e-commerce outlet for the sale of the produce of local farmers.
Target
The main targets of the solutions are local communities, consumers with an interest in local and rural products, as well as visitors to the area. The stakeholders are smallholder farmers, local organizations, rural communities and local governments.
Business model
The project has been funded as a PDPO III and European project to the tune of EUR 196 451.00, and is promoted by The Tree House
Impact
The primary goal of the initiative is to integrate the social economy into everyday community life in a way that is both visible and accessible. It aims to rehabilitate those outside the labour market through employment opportunities and skills development, supporting their reintegration into society. Additionally, the initiative seeks to provide a direct connection between local agriculture and consumers by centralizing sales of fresh, local products through accessible platforms. This approach supports local farmers and ensures the provision of high-quality, sustainable products to the market. Ultimately, the initiative strives to create a more inclusive, supportive and interconnected environment for all.
Partners
NMBS; Stad Diksmuide: fietsbib; Stad Diksmuide: fietsschool; Stad Diksmuide: buddywerking aankoop NMBS tickets; Interwest; De groene kans
Four Betters
Better environment
Better life
