In a momentous development, the Flemish province of Antwerp, in conjunction with Provinciaal Recreatiedomein De Schorre in Boom, has inked a new agreement with WEAREONE.world BV,
the company responsible for Tomorrowland. This landmark deal grants the world-renowned festival the privilege of utilizing the venue for an additional 66 years. The official press release emphasizes the continuation of their successful two-decade partnership.
Tomorrowland will leverage this extended agreement to further invest in the venue's development, propelling the province's leisure offerings to new heights. Among the commitments made by the venue's stakeholders are sustainable water management practices and the cultivation of indigenous flora. The site has witnessed the construction of roads and plazas, along with the installation of an extensive power, data, and fiber optic network.
Throughout the year, this location stands as a captivating destination for visitors who seek to explore its beauty on foot or by bicycle, as noted by Michel Beers of the festival. The visionary collaboration with the Province of Antwerp and their annual investments have transformed De Schorre into a stunning park that continually enchants all who visit.
Notably, the festival remains a magnetic attraction for the public. In 2023 alone, two weekends in July witnessed the participation of a staggering 400,000 people.
Financial Considerations
The utilization of this esteemed venue naturally comes at a cost. According to Mireille Colson, the provincial deputy responsible for negotiating the contract, Tomorrowland will contribute €965,000 for the year 2024. This amount will gradually increase each year until it reaches €1,200,000 by 2034. Beyond 2035, these payments will be subject to annual indexation.
In addition to these financial commitments, Tomorrowland will also allocate an average annual fee of €500,000 for the site's betterment. The 2023 annual fee was €770,000, signifying a notable increase in financial contributions. Over the next decade, the festival will invest an additional two million euros into the venue.
Securing a Bright Future
"The province and De Schorre are securing income that will be used for further developing the site into an accessible public recreation area," underlines Colson, highlighting the forward-thinking objectives of this long-term partnership.
It is worth mentioning that De Schorre holds a special place in Tomorrowland's history, serving as its birthplace in 2005, conceived by brothers Manu and Michiel Beers. Over the years, the festival has blossomed into one of the world's most iconic cultural events, earning numerous accolades and awards, including an impressive five-year streak of "Best Music Event of the Year" at the International Dance Music Awards. Photo by JOOW97, Wikimedia commons.