Close to the capital, Hesperange has developed considerably in a few years. The facilities have followed to meet the expectations and needs of young and old alike.

Like many Luxembourg municipalities, Hesperange, which comprises 5 sections (Alzingen, Hesperange, Howald, Fentange and Itzig), has seen its population increase in recent years. "It has grown by 38% since 2000 to reach 14,500 inhabitants today," says Marc Lies, its mayor. Between November 2013 and November 2014, 1,632 people (including 380 people of Luxembourg nationality) moved to Hesperange.
Half of the population is made up of Luxembourgers. The other half is particularly cosmopolitan. The French, Portuguese and Italian communities occupy the podium, in that order. As far as the composition of the population is concerned, it is interesting to note that the 30-35 year olds are particularly represented, which certainly also explains the fact that Hesperange is home to a large number of young children under the age of 5. 

Facilities for all

It is true that the commune has a number of advantages. First of all, its geographical location. Situated about ten kilometres from Luxembourg City, it is close to the capital while still being located in a green setting. The whole of the city centre has also been renovated and refurbished in a coherent manner.
In terms of facilities, the municipality of Hesperange has a number of schools and halfway houses. Children and parents also have access to a range of play areas. "Throughout the municipality, there are 30 different play and leisure areas where children and teenagers can meet up," explains the mayor. Some sixty cultural, sporting and social associations are also available to residents, young and old alike.
As far as the commercial offer is concerned, the population is spoilt for choice between the numerous shops, craftsmen but also several supermarkets. There are also a number of doctors' surgeries and pharmacies.
In short, while the municipality has grown rapidly in terms of population, the college of burgomasters and aldermen has ensured that the facilities have kept pace. And more are planned. "The cultural offer is going to be developed over the coming years with the construction of a new cultural centre," explains Marc Lies. The building, which should be operational from 2016, will house a conference and concert hall with over 300 seats, a foyer of almost 400 m2 and a restaurant.

Housing

In terms of housing, Hesperange has seen its stock grow over the years, and new developments are being launched to meet ever-increasing demand. In this respect "the situation in Hesperange is in line with the national housing market. Two new PAPs (special development plans) are currently being finalised. The first, Route de Thionville, includes 85 new homes. The second, called Rothweit, involves 400 new homes," explains the mayor. The programme also includes social housing for socially disadvantaged families. In terms of economic attractiveness, Hesperange is home to a business park in Fentange. The Howald business park, currently being restructured, is also nearby.

There is another point to which the commune pays particular attention: the environment. It is an integral part of all decisions because Hesperange wants to be exemplary in this area (the future generation will appreciate this). This is reflected in many ways: renovation of old buildings and new construction in compliance with the most demanding ecological standards, analysis and monitoring of water quality, information and awareness campaigns for residents, creation of bicycle paths, etc.

 Photo credit: hesperange.lu