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Ninove (Dutch pronunciation: [ˈninoːvə] ⓘ) is a city and municipality in the Flemish province of East Flanders in Belgium. It is on the river Dender, and is part of the Denderstreek. The municipality comprises the city of Ninove proper and since the 1976 merger of the towns of Appelterre-Eichem [nl], Aspelare [nl], Denderwindeke [nl], Lieferinge [nl], Meerbeke, Nederhasselt [nl], Neigem [nl], Okegem [nl], Outer [nl], Pollare [nl] and Voorde [nl]. On 1 January 2023 Ninove had a total population of 40.090. The total area is 72.57 km2 which gives a population density of 553 inhabitants per km2.

Key Information

History

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Ancient coat of arms of Ninove with mural crown

The oldest version of the name "Ninove", Neonifus dates from the 9th century. Later versions of the city name were Ninive and Nineve. The current version of the city name dates from the 14th century. The origin of the city name is not clear. There are two theories about the origin. One states that name is from Roman origin, the other states that it is of Frankish origin. The meaning of the name, however, is known. Ninove means "nieuw weiland" or in English, "new pasture".

During Roman rule, Ninove was a small settlement located in the current "Nederwijk". With the arrival of the Franks in the 4th century AD, the settlement grew to a small agricultural town. The area on which Ninove is located was from 843 on part of the Holy Roman Empire. In the 11th century this area was conquered by the Count of Flanders, Boudewijn V and the whole area between the rivers Scheldt and Dender became part of Flanders.

From the 11th century on, the medieval castrum was fortified into a castle stronghold. Because it lay on the trade route between Flanders and Brabant, the town prospered and grew into a city. In 1137, Norbertine monks from Park Abbey founded the Saint Cornelius Abbey (Abbey of Our Lady and SS. Cornelius and Cyprian), adjacent to the city (see below). In 1295 the town and lands were bought by the count of Flanders Guy of Dampierre. His grandson Henry awarded the town a city charter in 1339.

The 15th–17th centuries were a bad time for the city as the region was plagued with war and religious and political strife. The abbey was plundered by the French in 1578 during the reformation. In 1658, Ninove was occupied by the French army. After the Treaty of the Pyrenees, the French returned the area back to Spain but the area was to change hands many times during the wars of Louis XIV and Louis XV.

During the 17th century Ninove was crippled under the indemnities laid on it by the warring parties and the town faced a big economic crisis as its cloth industry went into decline. The big abbey was closed by the French in 1796, after Flanders was annexed to France. The town served as a cavalry headquarters during the Waterloo Campaign of 1815.

During the 19th century Ninove became industrialized and by the time of the First World War, the city became the centre of the Flemish match industry. This industry however declined in importance until the last match factory closed during the late 1970s.

From 1973 to 2011 the town of Meerbeke was the finish of the cycling race Tour of Flanders.

The population of Ninove has steadily grown and the city has become an attractive centre for commercial, recreational and economical activities in the area, and plays host to a popular annual Volkswagen show every March, specifically for air-cooled vehicles, i.e. Beetles, Camper-vans, Type 3's, 4's etc. The opening of a shopping mall in the centre of the city, as well as new sport and cultural infrastructure, and the construction of many residential apartment buildings have made Ninove a growing competitor for nearby Aalst and an ideal living-place for many commuters who work in nearby Brussels.

Premonstratensian abbey

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St Cornelius Abbey

The Premonstratensian abbot of Park Abbey founded the Abbey of Saints Cornelius and Cyprian in 1137.[2] The monks settled on uncultivated lands which had been offered to them by the lord of Ninove which were near the town, on the banks of the river Dender. The community continued to grow and its financial position soon allowed it to occupy the adjacent parishes. The lay brothers undertook the farm work. Because of its large landholdings, the abbey soon became one of the biggest grain producers in Flanders. The 16th and 17th centuries were difficult times because of the political troubles and the effects of the French wars of religion on the Southern Netherlands. The 18th century brought a period of calm and prosperity. All the abbey buildings were reconstructed to the plans of a Ghent architect advised by Laurent-Benoît Dewez. The abbey was suppressed in 1796 during the French Revolution. The abbey community was able to buy it back but this process lasted until 1822. Many of the buildings were demolished during the first half of the 19th century. The abbey church became the parish church of the Assumption of Mary in 1813.

City politics

[edit]
Ninove old town hall

Since 1 November 2015, the mayor of Ninove has been Tania De Jonge [nl] (Open VLD). The city council currently has 33 members, and is composed as follows:

2001–2007

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CD&V and N-VA had allied themselves for the 2000 election, and formed a coalition with the VLD. Due to the increase of population, the threshold of 35,000 inhabitants had been passed and Ninove saw an increase from 31 to 33 council members for the communal elections, which were held on Sunday 8 October 2006.

The municipal elections on 8 October 2006 let the VLD retain its 12 seats, the CD&V win a seat, giving them a total of 8, the Vlaams Belang double its seats, giving them a total of 8, the socialist party PRO Ninove lose a seat, making a total of 4, and the Green Party hold their single seat. The coalition between VLD and CD&V was renewed, but without the N-VA.

2007–2012

[edit]

During the 2 January 2007 elections of the OCMW council, one member of the VLD fraction voted for a candidate of Vlaams Belang, making the VLD lose 1 seat. After an investigation led by the local chapter of the VLD, it was announced that the person they suspected to be the culprit was Schepen Mariette De Smet. De Smet announced she would leave the VLD, but would remain in the council of the mayor and aldermen as an independent. Her colleagues in the council stripped her of all her duties, but after a few months she regained a few of them. On 9 January 2008 De Smet, fellow VLD schepen Corijn and another VLD member of the city council announced they were joining LDD, leaving the VLD-CD&V with a brittle one seat majority on the city council. The LDD alderman however elected to stay in the majority, making for a brittle coalition. On 5 May 2009 a Vlaams Belang councilmember defected to the LDD. In 2009 mayor Luc Durant announced he would resign for health reasons. He was replaced in September by Michel Casteur. In 2010 another VB councilmember left the party to become an independent. In January 2011 Mariette De Smet announced she would join the Vlaams Belang lead chartel list "Forza Ninove" and left LDD. She was then again stripped of her duties by her fellow aldermen. On 27 July 2011 De Smet was murdered in a murder-suicide by a friend of her husband. She was replaced as alderman by a member of the VLD. In 2012 the local LDD disbanded with its members either joining Forza Ninove or N-VA.

2013–2018

[edit]

The municipal elections on 14 October 2012 saw the ruling VLD-CD&V-LDD coalition head for electoral defeat as the VLD (9) lost three and the CD&V (4) lost four seats. Vlaams Belang, under the cartel name "Forza Ninove", won a seat, giving them a total of 9. The socialist party SP.a and the Green Party formed a chartel and won six seats. N-VA won 5 seats.

After the negotiations between Open VLD, SP.a-Groen and N-VA collapsed, the coalition between Open VLD and CD&V was renewed but expanded with SP.a-Groen. N-VA, claiming election irregularities by CD&V and "Forza Ninove", launched and won an administrative appeal. This ruling vacated the election results and ordered new elections to be held. Open VLD, CD&V and SP.a-Groen appealed this ruling to the Council of State which in February 2013 subsequently overthrew the previous ruling and restored the election results. The new city council and aldermen were finally inaugurated on 25 February 2013. On 1 November 2015 mayor Casteur stood down and was replaced by Tania De Jonge.

2019–2024

[edit]

The municipal elections on 14 October 2018 saw Forza Ninove win a landslide victory with 40% of the vote, winning 15 seats (+6). Open VLD retained its 9 seats, SAMEN (a cartel of socialists, greens and Christian-democrats) won 7 seats. N-VA won 2 seats (−3). Forza was unable to form a majority coalition, and ultimately Open VLD and SAMEN combined with one councillor from N-VA who sits as an independent to form a majority.

2024-now

[edit]

In the 2024 Belgian local elections, Forza Ninove won an absolute majority in the municipality, leading to Guy d'Haeseleer becoming the first-ever Vlaams Belang mayor.[3]

List of former mayors

[edit]
  • 1793–1801 – L. Van Ypersele
  • 1802–1814 – Geeraard Germanes
  • 1815–1824 – M. Van Ypersele
  • 1825–1830 – Joseph Cools
  • 1831–1854 – Karel Van Ypersele
  • 1855–1863 – Victor Van Oudenhove
  • 1864–1869 – Edmond De Deyn
  • 1870–1871 – Pieter Soetens
  • 1872–1894 – August De Cooman
  • 1895–1911 – Edmond De Deyn
  • 1912 – Victor Van Impe
  • 1913–1940 – Clément Behn
  • 1941–1944 – Karel Dortant
  • 1945 – Clément Behn
  • 1946–1954 – Omer Van Trimpont (BSP)
  • 1955–1976 – Emiel Milo (BSP)
  • 1977–1994 – Etienne Cosyns (CL – Centrumlijst)
  • 1995–2000 – Louis Waltniel (Banier)
  • 2001–2009 – Luc Durant (VLD)
  • 2009–2015 – Michel Casteur (Open VLD)
  • 2015–2024– Tania De Jonge (Open VLD)

Nicknames

[edit]
The Koepoort city gate

Throughout the ages the inhabitants of Ninove were given various nicknames as a title of honour or mockery.

Wortelmannen or Wortels

[edit]

The inhabitants were given the title of "wortelmannen" or "wortels" (Dutch for carrot people or carrot) because of an event during the Middle Ages. During a row with the neighbouring city of Aalst, the people of Aalst decided to besiege Ninove. The inhabitants of Ninove were completely surprised by this attack and were found unprepared. In all the confusion the key to close the city gate could not be found. To bolt the gate, a carrot was used. A passing donkey saw the carrot-bolt and ate it, leaving the city gate unbolted and the militiamen from Aalst free entry of the city.[4]

De Oudste, de Stoutste en de Wijste der Steden

[edit]

Ninove was described by Antonius Sanderus as the Oldest, the Boldest and the Wisest of Cities. Sanderus wrote in his Flandria Illustrata:

"Ninive quattor habet portas. Hae portae, quamvis possint, vix umquam clauduntur: unde vulgari loco Ninove dicitur antiquissima, audaccissima, sapientissima".

Ninove was called the oldest because of the similarity of its name with the ancient Assyrian city Nineveh, the boldest because it waited on the enemy with open gates and the wisest because the city had no jester or town fool, if one was needed a fool from a neighbouring town was lent.

Media

[edit]

Newspapers

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Ninove is the home of independent digital news outlet Ninofmedia. Founded in 2013, Ninofmedia primarily covers news in Ninove and other surrounding areas in the Denderstreek.

Radio

[edit]

Since March 2021, Radio Ninove (95 FM) has been operating as a local radio station licensed to serve Ninove. It was founded by experienced radio hosts who had previously worked at other radio stations in East Flanders, primarily in the city of Aalst. Radio Ninove aims to be a "partner in life" of Ninove's residents and local businesses by covering regional news, sports, politics, culture, and other important topics and events.[5]

The predecessor to Radio Ninove—a station of the same name—was active during the 1980s.

Radio Ninove is involved in a close partnership with enkaavee, a radio station dedicated entirely to the Carnival of Ninove.

People

[edit]
The Abbey church of Ninove

Sports

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Ninove

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Ninove is a city and municipality in the province of within the of , situated on the Dender River about 25 kilometers west of and forming part of the Denderstreek subregion. The municipality covers 73.12 square kilometers and had a population of 39,626 residents as of 2022. Historically, Ninove originated around the Premonstratensian of Saints Cornelius and , founded in 1137 by Gerard I, Lord of Ninove, with its Baroque abbey church from 1727 serving as a key landmark dedicated to the . In contemporary times, Ninove has drawn attention for its evolving demographics and politics, marked by significant support for Flemish nationalist positions; the local Forza Ninove party, led by Guy D'haeseleer and affiliated with , secured an absolute majority in the October 2024 municipal elections. This outcome, reflecting voter priorities on integration and public order, has been overshadowed by investigations into alleged involving proxy votes, leading to arrests in May 2025.

Geography

Location and administrative divisions

Ninove is a in the province of , , , positioned along the Dender River in the Denderstreek region. It lies approximately 30 kilometers west of and 40 kilometers east of , with the city center at geographic coordinates 50°50′N 4°01′E. The municipality spans 72.57 square kilometers of predominantly rural and semi-urban terrain. Administratively, Ninove functions as a single governed from its central city, but it incorporates eleven sub-municipalities (deelgemeenten): Appelterre-Eichem, Aspelare, Denderwindeke, Lieferinge, Meerbeke, Nederhasselt, Neigem, Okegem, Outer, Pollare, and Voorde. These sub-municipalities originated from the merger of former independent communes effective January 1, , as part of Belgium's municipal fusion reforms that reduced the number of local governments nationwide.

Physical features and climate

Ninove occupies a position in the Dender Valley of province, where the terrain consists primarily of low-lying alluvial plains drained by the Dender River, supporting agricultural fields and scattered woodlands. in the municipality average around 36 meters above sea level, with the city center situated at approximately 18 meters, reflecting its placement in the broader Schelde River basin characterized by gentle undulations rather than pronounced hills or valleys. The local landscape features expansive green countryside interspersed with small forests and waterways, contributing to a predominantly rural and pastoral setting within the Flemish region's central lowlands. Ninove experiences a temperate (Köppen Cfb), marked by mild temperatures year-round, moderate , and evenly distributed rainfall without extreme seasonal variations. Annual precipitation totals approximately 800–817 millimeters, with typically the wettest month at 79 millimeters over 15 days and the driest at 55 millimeters. Average annual temperatures range from a mean low of 7.71°C to a high of 14.71°C, with January as the coldest month (highs of 5.5°C and lows of 1.3°C) and July the warmest (highs reaching 23.22°C).
MonthAvg. High (°C)Avg. Low (°C)Precipitation (mm)
January5.51.3~60
July23.2~13~70
Annual14.77.7800–817

History

Origins and the Premonstratensian Abbey

The origins of Ninove trace to a modest Roman-era settlement in the area known as Nederwijk, which expanded during the Frankish migrations of the AD as agricultural activity intensified along the Dender River. By the early , the site featured a large or complex documented in charters, alongside the toponym "Nederwijk" indicative of early medieval habitation patterns. A chapter of secular canons emerged between 1114 and 1119, establishing an initial ecclesiastical presence amid growing regional trade routes connecting and Brabant. In 1137, this secular chapter was reformed into a Premonstratensian abbey dedicated to Saints Cornelius and Cyprian, under the filiation of Park Abbey near . The transformation was initiated by Gerard I, Lord of Ninove, who donated his castle, surrounding lands, and the existing parish church in memory of his wife Gisela, enabling the canons regular—following the Augustinian rule adapted by St. in 1120—to settle and cultivate previously underdeveloped terrain. This act formalized Ninove's role as a religious center, with the abbey's confirming the donation and papal privileges soon granting it autonomy and rights over local parishes. The Premonstratensian community at Ninove emphasized liturgical observance, , and , fostering economic self-sufficiency through farming and milling while attracting pilgrims and reinforcing feudal ties with local . Early abbots expanded holdings via bequests, but the foundation endured internal reforms to align strictly with Norbertine austerity, distinguishing it from less disciplined . By the mid-12th century, the abbey had constructed basic monastic structures, laying the groundwork for Ninove's medieval prominence despite later architectural evolutions.

Medieval and early modern development

The medieval development of Ninove centered on its strategic location along the Dender River, where a on the right bank and the Premonstratensian on the left bank served as foundational elements for urban expansion. From the , the original castrum evolved into a fortified stronghold, enhancing defense amid regional conflicts. Positioned on the key trade route between and Brabant, the town experienced economic growth through commerce and nascent industries by the , establishing it as a prosperous settlement. In 1295, Count Guy of Dampierre of purchased Ninove and its territories, integrating it more firmly into the county's administrative and economic framework. His grandson, Henry, conferred a city charter upon the town in 1339, granting privileges such as market rights and that spurred formation and intensification. Fortifications enclosed the core settlement, with subsequent urban extension occurring beyond the walls, particularly along the right bank paths paralleling the Dender. Archaeological traces confirm this phased growth, underscoring Ninove's role as a fortified hub rather than a major center. Transitioning into the early under Habsburg sovereignty as part of the Spanish and later , Ninove maintained economic vitality amid broader regional upheavals. The saw rebuilding efforts, including structures renovated under Abbot David in the early , reflecting influences. Military activity marked the late , with allied forces establishing encampments in Ninove-Doorn Noord from August 20 to 25, 1692, during the , evidenced by fire pits and woodland exploitation for fuel. The 18th century ushered in relative peace and prosperity, with complexes reconstructed according to designs by a architect, symbolizing institutional resilience and local wealth accumulation. These developments positioned Ninove as a stable ecclesiastical and commercial outpost in inland .

Industrialization and 19th-20th century growth

In the second half of the , Ninove experienced industrialization driven by low labor costs and proximity to transportation routes, including the canalized Dender River and expanding railways. The first factories established in the area capitalized on these advantages, transitioning the local economy from agriculture and cottage industries like linen production to mechanized . Match production emerged as the dominant industry, with operations beginning around and positioning Ninove as the center of Flemish match manufacturing by the early . This sector employed thousands, providing steady work amid widespread and attracting workers from surrounding rural areas. Population growth reflected this economic shift, rising from approximately 4,400 inhabitants in 1834 to levels that supported industrial expansion, though exact figures for the late 19th century indicate a steady increase tied to factory labor demands. Throughout the , Ninove's economy sustained growth through continued match production and diversification, even as workers increasingly commuted to coal mines in and jobs in . The industry peaked before but faced decline post-war, with the last major , Ninove Match, closing in 1974 amid broader shifts away from traditional . Replacement industries emerged, maintaining employment and contributing to population expansion to around 12,000 by 1970, underscoring Ninove's adaptation from agrarian roots to an industrial commuter hub.

World War impacts and post-war reconstruction

During the in , Ninove experienced the initial stages of occupation as approximately 1,000 soldiers billeted in the town over the weekend of 22–23 August, amid rumors of civilian attacks on troops that heightened tensions but did not lead to documented large-scale reprisals specific to Ninove. The town remained under military administration throughout the war, with daily life profoundly disrupted by shortages, requisitions, and administrative controls, as evidenced by local accounts preserved in municipal expositions. From October 1916, Ninove and surrounding areas faced forced labor deportations to , part of a broader demand for over 120,000 Belgian workers, with significant numbers drawn from the former canton of Ninove, affecting industrial and agricultural output in the region's match manufacturing sector. In summer , an influx of refugees from the front further strained resources, exacerbating food scarcity and housing pressures without direct combat on Ninove's soil. Ninove's , erected post-1918 near the Onze-Lieve-Vrouw-Hemelvaartkerk, honors military fallen, civilian deportees, and victims, underscoring the human toll estimated in local records at dozens from the municipality across both world wars, though precise figures for WWI remain tied to broader Flemish occupational hardships rather than battlefield casualties. Physical damage was limited compared to frontline areas, allowing relatively swift economic stabilization by 1919, with the match industry—central to Ninove's pre-war economy—resuming operations amid national reconstruction efforts funded by reparations and loans, though labor shortages persisted from deportations. In , Ninove endured German occupation from May 1940 until liberation by Allied forces, primarily British and Polish units, on 3 September 1944, marking a rapid advance that minimized ground fighting in the area. The occupation involved similar impositions as in WWI, including resource extraction and suppression of resistance, with local gravesites documenting former prisoners of war, political detainees, and deportees alongside resistance fighters who faced execution or internment. Bombing damage included significant impacts to the Sint-Theresiakerk, which suffered unrepaired structural harm from aerial strikes, reflecting sporadic Allied efforts to disrupt German logistics in inland . Post-war reconstruction in Ninove focused on economic revival rather than extensive physical rebuilding, given the absence of total devastation; the match industry and emerging manufacturing adapted to peacetime demands, bolstered by Belgium's participation in the from 1948, which facilitated infrastructure upgrades and industrial modernization across unbombed municipalities like Ninove. Municipal efforts emphasized commemoration, with expanded war memorials incorporating WWII victims by the , and community initiatives to reintegrate returnees from labor camps, though social scars from collaboration trials and resistance legacies lingered into the . By the mid-, Ninove's population and industrial base had stabilized, transitioning toward diversified employment without the protracted rebuilding seen in heavily contested regions.

Demographics

As of 2024, Ninove's population stands at 40,580 inhabitants, with a of 553.6 inhabitants per square kilometer across its 73.12 km² area. The municipality exhibits a slight female majority at 50.8% and an average age of 43.0 years, reflecting a mature demographic profile. Population growth in Ninove has been positive but modest, with an average annual variation of +0.67% from 2019 to 2024 and an estimated 0.84% annual increase from 2021 to 2024. This equates to a net addition of approximately 1,330 residents in the most recent year reported. Historically, the population expanded from 33,318 in 1990 to the current level, indicating steady urbanization tied to its proximity to and Aalst. Vital statistics underscore migration as the primary driver of growth, with a of 9.4 per 1,000 inhabitants and a death rate of 10.3 per 1,000, yielding a natural decrease offset by a positive migration rate of 3.9 per 1,000. Earlier records show slower expansion, from about 4,400 residents in 1834 to 12,000 by 1970, accelerating post-industrialization through suburban development and commuter influx. Projections suggest continued moderate growth, potentially reaching 40,581 by 2025, barring economic shifts.

Ethnic and religious composition

As of recent estimates, approximately 19.5% of Ninove's residents have a migration background, defined as individuals born abroad, those with at least one foreign-born parent, or citizens from foreign origins, up from 10.8% in 2011. This equates to about 7,667 individuals out of a total population of roughly 39,000, with the remainder—80.5%—of native Belgian origin, primarily ethnic Flemish. Foreign nationals constitute a smaller share, around 7.7%, indicating significant among longer-term migrants. The primary non-Belgian origins include the region (Morocco, , ) at approximately 5.5% of the total population, Turkish at 1.1%, with lesser proportions from other African countries (around 6%), , and . These groups largely stem from labor migration waves since the and more recent and asylum inflows, concentrated in urban neighborhoods. Religious affiliation is not systematically recorded in Belgian municipal , precluding precise quantification, but the native population remains rooted in —predominantly Roman Catholicism, though active practice has declined amid broader Flemish secularization trends. The rise in migration from Muslim-majority countries has correspondingly expanded the local Islamic community, which forms the principal non-Christian minority, often correlating with North African and Turkish origins; national estimates place at 6% of Belgium's , with higher concentrations in immigrant-heavy locales like Ninove. No verified municipal-level religious exists, but anecdotal and political discourse highlights Islam's visibility in public life and integration debates.

Immigration patterns and integration challenges

Ninove has undergone a marked rise in , particularly from non-European countries, contributing to a doubling of the share with a migration background—from 10.8% in to 20.4% in 2021. The proportion of residents holding non-Belgian also grew substantially, from 2.94% in 2010 to 6.68% in 2021, reaching about 8% or 3,111 individuals by 2024 amid a total of roughly 39,000. This expansion includes a sharp increase in those of non-European origin, with their share climbing from 0.9% to 12.8% in the years leading to 2019, driven by inflows from regions such as the , , and . Overall, estimates place the allochthonous at around 23% as of recent assessments, reflecting Ninove's position in the Denderstreek's suburban corridor near , which funnels migrants from larger urban centers. Integration efforts in Ninove have emphasized courses, support, and civic orientation, but these have largely reacted to apprehensions among long-established residents—such as strains on , schools, and public services—rather than proactively addressing immigrant-specific barriers like skill mismatches or cultural adaptation. The municipality maintains few dedicated immigrant self-organizations or robust civil networks for integration, limiting cohesion-building in this small-town context where migration patterns increasingly bypass . Non-EU newcomers arrive at a rate of 27.2 per 1,000 adults, heightening pressures on local resources and exacerbating perceptions of uneven assimilation, including higher and localized ethnic enclaves that challenge social trust. These dynamics have fueled resident concerns over safety and cultural preservation, as evidenced by the political ascent of parties advocating tighter controls, underscoring empirical gaps in achieving parity in and educational outcomes between native and migrant groups.

Economy

Historical economic base

Ninove's economy was historically anchored in , with the Premonstratensian of Saints Cornelius and serving as a central hub for centuries, managing extensive lands and fostering trade links with major Flemish cities for , , and other produce. The fertile Dender River valley supported on sandy-loam and clay soils, enabling surplus sales at local markets, though the sector dominated daily life until well into the . From the , flax cultivation and production emerged as key rural activities, leveraging the region's damp and waterways for and processing, supplementing agricultural income through proto-industrial home-based spinning and . This sector, documented in local records of surrounding areas, contributed to modest export-oriented growth but remained secondary to farming until mechanization pressures in the early . Industrialization accelerated in the mid-19th century, transitioning Ninove from agrarian dependence via small-scale factories along the Dender, including early operations like Louis Van Steenberghe's yarn-twisting mill (garentwijnderij) near the future Kaardeloodstraat. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Ninove rivaled as a hub for the (safety match) industry, with multiple factories employing local labor amid Belgium's broader and light manufacturing boom, though growth was constrained by proximity to larger centers like Aalst. Ancillary activities, such as oil mills and linseed cake processing in hamlets like Outer, supported this shift, marking the decline of pure by 1900.

Current industries and employment

Ninove's employment landscape is dominated by the tertiary sector, which accounted for 76.1% of jobs in 2021, reflecting a shift toward services, , and typical of many Flemish municipalities. The secondary sector, encompassing , industry, and , comprised 22.1% of employment, while the primary sector (, , and ) represented a marginal 1.8%. These figures, drawn from local socioeconomic assessments, indicate a balanced but service-heavy , with industrial activity concentrated in designated zones rather than agriculture or extractive industries. Industrial zones form the core of Ninove's manufacturing and logistics base. Zone I, the oldest industrial area along the Dender River, hosts diverse operations including automotive services (e.g., Scania Belgium for truck maintenance), food processing (Pasta Vespa), logistics (Hecny Logistics Belgium), and specialized production like foam products (Euro Mousse) and wood processing (Wood In Style). Zone II, fully occupied since the 1990s, supports similar light industry and warehousing, with ongoing revitalization efforts launched in February 2023 to address infrastructure decay, flooding risks, and parking shortages, aiming to sustain and expand jobs through €88,499 in subsidies from the Flemish Agency for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (VLAIO). Zone III, spanning 79 hectares and recognized since 1961, accommodates larger-scale enterprises, contributing to secondary sector stability amid regional land scarcity that prioritizes expansion for existing firms. Recent job listings underscore demand in , , and technical roles, with over 500 vacancies reported in Ninove as of late 2025, often in and sectors. Unemployment aligns with ' strong performance, where 72.1% of 20-64-year-olds were employed in 2023, outperforming national averages, though local integration challenges may influence participation rates. The supports employment through its local economy service, facilitating business startups and initiatives to bolster tertiary growth while preserving industrial viability.

Commercial and recreational developments

The , located at Kaardeloodstraat 97, serves as Ninove's primary retail hub, featuring supermarkets, outlets, stores, and restaurants, operating from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. through . In 2023, it was described as accommodating over 60 shops, contributing to local commercial vitality through diverse offerings. A significant recent addition is the Ninouter , developed by Mitiska and opened in 2023, with a gross leasable area of 10,300 m² across six units anchored by and supermarkets, alongside tenants like JBC. The site includes a CO2-neutral building powered by 2,500 solar panels, 320 free spaces, and forms part of a broader 27,000 m² mixed-use project incorporating small-to-medium enterprise units and offices. City center revitalization efforts include the July 2024 announcement of the Inghelant site redevelopment, aiming to integrate commercial spaces with housing, offices, and green areas to enhance urban appeal and leisure options. Additionally, Ninove's Door Noord area is slated for a €4.5 million relocation of municipal technical services into 30,000 m² of space, potentially supporting industrial and business expansion, though local critics have raised concerns over job impacts. An industrial redevelopment site in Ninove was listed for brokerage in August 2024, targeting and opportunities. On the recreational front, the Stadspark Ninove provides public green space equipped with children's playgrounds, a skatepark, outdoor fitness stations, and hosts events such as food truck festivals, fostering community engagement. The Calisthenics Ninove facility offers outdoor pull-up bars and calisthenics equipment, integrated into local sports infrastructure. A 2024 sports infrastructure needs assessment by CityD has informed municipal planning for expanded facilities, aligning with broader masterplan goals to incorporate pedestrian-friendly green spaces and recreational landscapes.

Government and politics

Municipal structure and elections

Ninove functions as a single municipality within the Flemish Region of Belgium, governed by a municipal council (gemeenteraad) of 34 members, a mayor (burgemeester), and a college of the mayor and aldermen (college van burgemeester en schepenen) responsible for executive functions. The council handles legislative matters such as budgeting, zoning, and local ordinances, while the executive implements policies and manages daily administration. Since the 1977 municipal mergers, Ninove incorporates the former entities of Appelterre-Eichem, Aspelare, Denderwindeke, Lieferinge, Outer, and Voorde as sub-municipalities (deelgemeenten), each with advisory councils but no independent executive powers. Local elections occur every six years on the second of , determining the council composition; the largest party or coalition designates the , who is formally appointed by the . In the October 13, 2024, elections, Ninove, a local list affiliated with the party and led by Guy D'haeseleer, obtained 47.4% of the vote, securing 18 seats and an absolute majority in the 34-seat council. Other parties received: Positief Ninove (11 seats), Vooruit (4 seats), and Groen (1 seat). D'haeseleer was sworn in as on December 6, 2024, marking the first instance of -linked in a Flemish , as Ninove formed a single-party executive. Prior to 2024, the 2018 elections saw Forza Ninove win the largest share of votes but denied executive roles due to a cordon sanitaire agreement among other parties, leading to a coalition of Open Vld, N-VA, CD&V, and Groen that excluded them; Tania De Jonge (Open Vld) served as from 2019 to 2024. The 2024 outcome ended this exclusion in Ninove, despite investigations into 1,618 proxy votes (7% of total) for potential irregularities, which did not alter the certified results after review. Turnout in the 2024 Flemish local elections averaged 64%, reflecting broader trends of declining participation.

Historical political landscape

Clément Behn, a liberal and physician, served as of Ninove from 1913 to 1940, overseeing local governance during a period marked by Belgium's pillarized political system and economic shifts in the Denderstreek region. His tenure ended amid , during which Karel Dortant was appointed war from 1941 to 1944 under German occupation. Post-liberation in 1945, following Behn's illness, Omer Van Trimpont, a socialist affiliated with the (BSP), assumed acting mayoral duties and secured victory in the 1946 municipal elections, holding office until his death in 1955. The mid-20th century saw BSP dominance in Ninove's politics, reflecting the party's appeal in working-class industrial areas reliant on textiles and manufacturing. Emiel Milo succeeded Van Trimpont as BSP mayor, serving from 1955 to 1976, often through coalitions that included Christian Democrats (CVP). A notable irregularity occurred in the 1964 elections, where results were declared invalid by authorities due to procedural issues, prompting a . By the late 1970s, coalitions broadened to include center lists alongside BSP elements, with Etienne Cosyns elected from 1977 to 1982 via a . This era maintained traditional party control amid Belgium's federalization, though underlying socioeconomic pressures from began fostering voter shifts toward nationalist platforms in subsequent decades.

Rise of Vlaams Belang and recent governance

In the 2018 municipal elections held on October 14, Forza Ninove, a local list led by politician Guy D'haeseleer, secured 40% of the vote share, translating to the largest number of seats on the city council. This result marked a significant surge for -aligned forces in Ninove, reflecting voter concerns over and local amid demographic shifts in the . Despite the electoral success, the cordon sanitaire—a longstanding agreement among mainstream Flemish parties to exclude from coalitions—prevented Forza Ninove from entering government; a majority coalition of Open VLD, CD&V, N-VA, and sp.a instead installed Tania De Corte (Open VLD) as mayor, ousting D'haeseleer from his initial council role. The exclusion fueled further growth for in Ninove, positioning the party as a against perceived establishment resistance to addressing integration challenges. In the October 13, 2024, municipal elections, Forza Ninove achieved an absolute majority with over 50% of the votes, securing 21 of 37 council seats and breaking the cordon sanitaire locally. This outcome made Ninove the first Belgian municipality to elect a Vlaams Belang-affiliated , with D'haeseleer sworn in on December 6, 2024, granting his list full control over governance without coalition dependencies. Under D'haeseleer's mayoralty, Forza Ninove has prioritized policies linking social benefits to proficiency for newcomers, aiming to enforce integration requirements amid ongoing debates over the policy's impact on and welfare access. The 2024 victory occurred against a backdrop of allegations of electoral irregularities, including a disproportionate 1,618 proxy votes cast—far exceeding norms in other East Flemish municipalities—which prompted investigations but did not overturn the results. As of October 2025, D'haeseleer remains despite challenges, including a liver transplant in April 2025, with Forza Ninove advancing plans such as relocating technical services for €4.5 million while facing opposition critiques on job impacts.

Key policies: Immigration, security, and urban planning

In the realm of policy, the administration led by Mayor Guy D'haeseleer, inaugurated in December 2024 following Forza Ninove's absolute majority in the October 2024 local elections, has emphasized stringent integration measures. Newcomers with migration backgrounds are required to demonstrate proficiency in Dutch to retain access to social benefits, aligning with Vlaams Belang's broader platform prioritizing and limiting non-EU inflows. This approach responds to local surveys indicating that 45% of residents perceive excessive ethnic diversity as hindering social cohesion, amid a doubling of the to 20.4% between 2011 and 2021. Prior to this shift, integration efforts included mandatory interviews for newcomers to outline and obligations, though these were critiqued for primarily addressing native residents' concerns rather than migrant needs. On , the new prioritizes combating petty through intensified issuance of administrative sanctions (GAS-boetes), aiming for swift penalties to deter minor offenses and restore public order. Official data from 2023 records 276 incidents of crimes against physical integrity, levels comparable to neighboring municipalities like Aalst and , suggesting no criminality but a heightened sense of insecurity among locals. The zonal safety plan, updated in September 2025, outlines four-year strategic police objectives focused on prevention, , and resource allocation to high-risk areas, supplemented by public safety monitors gauging resident perceptions. These initiatives build on prior multi-year plans (2020-2025) targeting via revised police regulations, though enforcement has intensified under the current majority. Urban planning under recent policies centers on the Ninove Masterplan, which seeks to consolidate a fragmented city center by developing mixed-use zones along Centrumlaan, incorporating administrative functions, , and commercial spaces while prioritizing access and green corridors. The municipal spatial structure plan (GRS) delineates long-term , emphasizing densification with smaller typologies to counter sprawl and enhance connectivity, as outlined in the residential zoning vision. Additional efforts include needs assessments for sports to support community integration and a CO2-neutral featuring solar panels and expanded parking, reflecting amid opposition to high-rise projects like the contested 49-meter Ninove Gate tower. These plans promote resident input in permitting processes to balance growth with livability.

Society and culture

Local identity: Nicknames and traditions

The inhabitants of Ninove are commonly known by several nicknames reflecting historical legends and economic activities. The primary moniker, "Wortelkrabbers" (carrot scrappers or root diggers), originates from a local legend recounting an attempted invasion by neighboring Aalst residents during medieval inter-city conflicts; unable to locate the city gate key in time, Ninovians reportedly jammed a large carrot into the lock to secure it, thwarting the attackers and earning the enduring sobriquet. This nickname persists in local folklore and is invoked during carnival celebrations, where it symbolizes resourcefulness amid adversity. Another prominent nickname, "Stekskesmannen" (matchstick men), derives from Ninove's dominant matchstick industry, which flourished from 1884 to 1974 and included eleven factories producing approximately half of Belgium's matches annually, providing significant employment and shaping communal identity around manufacturing prowess. Additional informal designations, such as "Kaffeegieters" (coffee pourers) or "Voddenmannen" (rag men), appear in regional vernacular but lack the same historical documentation or prevalence. Local traditions tied to these identities emphasize historical reenactments and heritage preservation rather than elaborate rituals. The carrot legend is commemorated through the 't Wortelmanneken on Centrumlaan, erected to evoke the defensive ingenuity narrative, while the matchstick era's legacy is preserved in industrial heritage exhibits and narratives of economic . Recent civic efforts, such as the 2025 revival of a traditional featuring local crafts, glühwein, and ambachtelijke goods from 19 to 23 , underscore a commitment to unadorned Flemish customs over modern reinterpretations, aligning with broader patterns of regional identity rooted in agrarian and industrial pasts.

Media landscape

Ninofmedia serves as the principal local digital news outlet in Ninove, functioning as a channel that produces articles, photo reports, audio-visual content, interviews, and commentary pieces centered on municipal events and extending to the broader Denderstreek and Pajottenland areas. Radio Ninove provides community-oriented broadcasting on 95 FM and DAB+, delivering Ninove-specific news updates integrated with music selections, available via its website, app, and live streams. Regional Flemish media fill gaps in local coverage, with TV Oost offering television news relevant to including Ninove, while newspapers like Het Nieuwsblad and maintain correspondents and dedicated sections for the municipality. Independent press agencies such as Persinfo contribute additional reporting on Denderstreek developments, including Ninove, through their online platforms.

Sports and community activities

KVK Ninove, a prominent club in the municipality, competes in the Belgian 1ste Nationale VV division and features teams such as the A-ploeg and B-ploeg, drawing local support through home matches and community engagement. is supported by BBC United Ninove, founded in 1995, which prioritizes youth training and skill development in the sport. Multisport options are available at Kristoffelsport, offering diverse activities managed by local enthusiasts. Municipal facilities like Sporthal Ninove accommodate indoor pursuits including athletics, , and various ball sports. Combat disciplines flourish via dedicated clubs such as Club Ninove, Hiryu Ninove, Jiu-jitsu Club Kama Ninove, and Kida Sports for , alongside and additional groups. Dender Hockey provides and courts, fostering recreational play. Outdoor recreation includes over 10 , running, and trails in areas like Neigembos, with activities extending to horse riding and . Community activities center on cultural and social initiatives, with Cultuurcentrum De Plomblom hosting theater, music, dance, film screenings, events, and exhibitions to promote local arts participation. Organizations like Neos vzw organize lectures, cultural outings, and social gatherings tailored for seniors, emphasizing and heritage. Davidsfonds Ninove coordinates events on , art, and local traditions, while oversee broader festivals and preservation efforts. These programs enhance civic involvement without reliance on centralized narratives from academic or media institutions.

Notable people

Political figures

Guy D'haeseleer is a Belgian politician affiliated with , serving as of Ninove since December 5, 2024, following his Forza Ninove list's absolute majority win—securing 47.4% of the vote—in the October 13, 2024, municipal elections. He founded Forza Ninove and has represented the party in the , previously leading Vlaams Belang in the since 2014. Annemie Turtelboom, born in Ninove on November 22, 1967, is a former Belgian federal minister for Open VLD, holding portfolios including and the Interior from 2011 to 2014. She began her political career as a member of the from 2003 to 2007 and later served as a member of the . Jacques Timmermans (October 13, 1945 – December 16, 2021), born in Ninove, was a prominent Flemish socialist with the SP.A party, serving as a directly elected senator from the Oudenaarde-Aalst district (1991–1995) and in the . He also held local roles, including as a key figure in Ninove's socialist movement for decades.

Cultural and sports personalities

Kevin van der Perren, born on 6 August 1982 in Ninove, is a retired Belgian figure skater who secured nine Belgian national titles between 2000 and 2012 and earned bronze medals at the European Championships in 2007 and 2009. He competed for at the Winter Olympics in 2006, 2010, and 2014, finishing 17th, 20th, and 24th respectively in men's singles. Van der Perren, known for his powerful jumps including triple Axels, trained with the Kunstschaatsclub Heuvelkouter and later became an international coach and creator of ice shows like Ice Fantillusion. In 2020, he was nominated for of Ninove alongside fellow local athlete . Wesley Sonck, born on 9 August 1978 and raised in Ninove, is a former professional footballer who played as a striker, amassing 55 caps for the national team with 16 goals from 2001 to 2010. His club career included stints at , where he won the top scorer award twice, and clubs like Ajax and Club Brugge, retiring in 2015 before transitioning to coaching and punditry. Sonck's local ties, including growing up in a Ninove café, have cemented his status as a hometown figure, leading to his 2020 honorary citizenship nomination. Romain Gijssels (1907–1978), born in Denderwindeke—a sub-municipality incorporated into Ninove—was a professional road cyclist who won the Tour of Flanders in consecutive years, 1931 and 1932, establishing himself as one of Belgium's early cycling greats. His victories highlighted the dominance of Flemish riders in the era's cobbled classics, with Gijssels also podiuming in other major races before retiring in the late 1930s. Frederik Backaert, born on 13 August 1990 in Ninove, is a professional cyclist specializing in road racing, competing for teams like Wanty-Groupe Gobert and later in continental circuits with a focus on endurance and support roles in Grand Tours. Active from 2011 onward, he participated in events like the , embodying Ninove's tradition of producing competitive cyclists. Ninove's cultural landscape features fewer internationally prominent figures, with local recognition often centered on community contributors like the late Hans Van Laethem (1960–2025), an honorary citizen known for preserving Ninove's traditions through public announcements and events until his death in June 2025.

Infrastructure and

Transportation networks

Ninove is connected to Belgium's network via Ninove station, operated by the Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Belges (NMBS), located on line 90 between Denderleeuw and Jurbise. This line facilitates regional passenger services to destinations including (with an average journey time of 48 minutes and approximately 32 trains per day) and , though passengers traveling to nearby Aalst must transfer since the direct service was discontinued in December 2021 due to infrastructural constraints. The station includes parking facilities and integrates with local bus services for multimodal access. Public bus services are provided by , the Flemish operator, with multiple regional and local lines serving Ninove, such as lines 31, 625, R24, and others linking to Aalst, Denderleeuw, and ; these operate on fixed schedules with on-demand belbus options for less dense areas. The network supports commuter flows, school transport, and connections to rail stations, with real-time information available through 's resources. Road infrastructure centers on the N28 national road, which runs through Ninove and connects it eastward to Aalst and westward toward , while the N45 provides a secondary link southward; access to the motorway is achieved via the N45 interchange near Aalst, approximately 10 kilometers east, enabling efficient highway travel to major cities like and . Local roads support urban traffic, with ongoing municipal efforts to integrate sustainable mobility options alongside these primary arteries.

Education and public services

Ninove's education system includes 15 primary schools catering to children from age 2.5, with compulsory attendance starting at age 5 for a minimum of 290 half-days per year. These comprise 7 municipal schools under the GeNi network, 7 Catholic-affiliated schools through Hartencollege, 2 (GO!) schools, and 1 alternative school (BuitenWijs). Instruction is conducted in Dutch, with schools emphasizing parental collaboration and offering support services; costs are subsidized, capped at €55 for and €105 for primary levels in the 2024-2025 , covering materials and extracurriculars. Secondary education features institutions like GO! Atheneum Ninove, a green school focused on general , and GO! KA Ninove, which integrates through secondary levels (including atheneum tracks) in a unified facility designed to foster open learning spaces. Enrollment for primary schools occurs digitally via the municipal portal from late to late annually. Public services in Ninove are managed through municipal departments handling civil registry (Burgerzaken), social welfare via the Sociaal Huis for assistance programs, and urban amenities. Healthcare facilities include the OLV Ziekenhuis Ninove campus at Biezenstraat 2, part of the broader OLV Hospital network spanning Aalst, , and Ninove, providing general medical, surgical, and emergency care as the third-largest non-university hospital system in . The Bibliotheek Ninove, located at Graanmarkt 12, functions as the central with over 10,000 e-book titles available via cloudLibrary, alongside physical collections, events, and community programming.

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