Impact Case Study: Transvaal, CLT Brussels
In a complementary report to the 2025 State of the Sector Report, the impact of CLT Brussels Transvaal project and London CLT’s Citizens House are further explored, combining quantitative and qualitative evidence.
Community Land Trust Brussels was established in 2012 with the aim of developing housing projects that “respond to the challenges of today and tomorrow: the housing crisis, growing inequalities, and climate change”. The Transvaal project is located in the Cureghem neighbourhood in the municipality of Anderlecht. The Transvaal site was brought to the attention of Community Land Trust Brussels through its partner, Samenlevingsopbouw. It was an undeveloped site belonging to the Municipality of Anderlecht.
The report finds:
On average, CLT Brussels Transvaal homes are sold at a 37% discount to their private market valuation.
Since moving into their Community Land Trust Brussels home, 86% report an improvement in their housing situation and 82% feel more fulfilled.
Transvaal homes are highly energy efficient, with a large majority (86%) of homes achieving PEB A.
On average, CLT Brussels Transvaal homes are sold at a 37% discount to their private market valuation. ©The Good Economy
The Indépendance project is a CLT in Brussels; located in neighbourhood of Molenbeek, a stone's throw from the canal. ©Vincent de Lannoy
April 2026
Questions & Answers with CLT Brussels
Where do you hope to see CLT Brussels in … 5 years?
200 occupied homes, a multidisciplinary team dedicated to community work and supporting residents, a renewed management contract with the Brussels-Capital Region, secured funding for housing development, and Regional support to help low-income homeowners renovate their homes through the Upcycling Trust model.
In 50 years…
5 000 occupied homes, a strong community of CLT homeowners, non-speculative, community led development on community land has become the norm for urban development in Brussels.
What is a positive signal of change that supports your readiness to scale?
Interest in and the use of long-term leases by other housing stakeholders in Brussels.
What are your three primary “levers” for growth?
A renewed management contract with secure funding; having a financial and legal framework to help low-income owner-occupiers renovate their homes; and being integrated into larger-scale renovation and/or urban development plans.
What is your message to a funder about how CLTs make your city a better place to live?
CLTs ensure permanently affordable housing and empower communities to take part in shaping their neighborhoods. By supporting CLTs, you are investing in a more equitable, resilient, and inclusive city where residents can thrive and remain part of their community for the long term.
What is your message to a developer considering partnering with a CLT?
CLTB guarantees lasting affordability.
If you could change one specific law or policy tomorrow to unlock the potential for CLTs, what would it be?
A renewed management contract with secure funding, or having a financial and legal framework to help low-income owner-occupiers renovate their homes.
The Transvaal project. ©Gillion
