Summary sheet
The project consists of an investment programme by the Université Catholique de Louvain (UCL), a leading Belgian university based in Louvain-la-Neuve. The EUR 200m investments are aimed at the construction and retrofitting of educational and research infrastructure to be carried out during the 2017-2021 period.
The project aims to upgrade the educational and research infrastructure of UCL to strengthen its domestic and international academic standing.
Universities are not specifically mentioned in the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Directive 2011/92/EU, though the project may be covered by Annex II of the directive in relation to urban development. The Bank's services will verify the screening decision of the competent authority during appraisal and whether an EIA is required. It is expected that the project will have positive social benefits as education is an element of social cohesion. The public buildings will be required to meet at least the minimum national targets concerning energy efficiency. The design energy performance of the schools and any specific related targets to be met will be verified during appraisal.
Should the EIB conclude that the promoter is subject to EU public procurement legislation then the Bank will require the promoter to ensure that contracts for the implementation of the project have been and will be tendered in accordance with the relevant applicable EU procurement legislation (Directive 2014/24/EU or 2004/18/EC, where applicable, as well as Directive 89/665/EEC) as interpreted by the Court of Justice of the EU, with publication of tender notices in the Official Journal of the EU, as and where required.
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