ABSTRACT
The construction of the infrastructure and houses for the workers started in 1908, and in 1917 the mine became operational as the first of many coal mines in the region. In the late 1990s, Genk started the redevelopment of the former mining site of Winterslag as a space for creative industries that would serve as a driver for the regeneration of the area. As Genk mainly developed its spatial and social structure around its several mining sites, the closure of the mines also caused a loss of local identity. C-Mine, however, functions as a new physical centre and point of identification for the city. The most prominent and best preserved historical building is the energy building, transformed into a cultural centre by 51N4E. The former administration, building facing the street, is developed in a more commercial way, housing the cinema, bars, and restaurants but also offices and co-working spaces for creative industries.
