Finding land for the circular economy: territorial dynamics and spatial experimentation in the post-industrial city

Abstract The emergence of European-wide circular city agendas calls attention to the integration of circular economy (CE) policies in urban development trajectories. In post-industrial contexts like the Brussels Capital Region (BE), land scarcity and industrial gentrification pose significant challenges for emerging circular activities that do not conform to traditional economic valuation criteria. This article highlights the significance of land as a central resource and contested means for circularity transitions through qualitative research on cases of urban circular economy hubs. We propose a spatial approach for investigating these spaces, examining the influence of regional territorial policies, land value dynamics and the planning system. Resulting from these interplays are diverse forms of circular spatial experimentation, manifesting in three local pathways (i.e. anchoring, transitory and transformative). Public versus private land ownership, stakeholder expectations, and the dual role of public institutions are the primary drivers affecting the durability and socio-economic orientation of circular economy hubs in the city.