For several years, the village of Evelette has undergone significant transformation, driven by the Commune of Ohey in close collaboration with residents, local associations, and institutional partners. The projects inaugurated on October 11, 2026, exemplify a coherent vision for rural development: preserving heritage, strengthening public infrastructure, supporting youth, improving safety, and creating meeting spaces that foster community living. These achievements represent over 3 million euros in investments aimed at enhancing residents' quality of life and demonstrate the commune's commitment to sustainable village development.
The implemented developments originate from discussions held within the framework of the Communal Rural Development Program (PCDR). Over the years, several priorities have emerged: strengthening collective facilities, supporting youth, preserving the village's emblematic sites, improving mobility and safety, and creating more places for meeting and conviviality. The projects inaugurated today are therefore not isolated achievements but distinct components of a single revitalization project for the heart of Evelette.
A new community space has been developed in the heart of the village, conceived by and for the residents. Following the renovation of the Salle Isbanette, the creation of the Coin des Macrales, and the renovation of the Maison des Jeunes, residents and associations expressed a desire for a central public space for meetings and village events. The Commune therefore acquired a strategic plot in the village center to develop a versatile space accessible to all, realized through the Walloon call for projects 'Cœur de village'. Key facilities include a multipurpose meeting space, a multisport field, a playground, a barbecue area, integrated parking, PMR access, and secure pedestrian connections.
The expansion of the Maison des Jeunes represents an investment in youth, aiming to adapt infrastructure to increasing attendance and foster synergies with the Salle Isbanette. The extension now accommodates more activities such as dance, theater, circus arts, role-playing games, artistic expression projects, and cultural events, making it a true place for young people in Grand Ohey to thrive.
In conjunction with the village center developments, the Commune sought to secure the intersection of Rue des Sorbiers, Rue du Tige, and Rue du Baty. This project, part of the PIMACI program, aims to reduce traffic speed, enhance pedestrian and cyclist safety, mark the village entrance, and improve the living environment.
Two emergency staircases have been added to the Evelette school to ensure fire safety. Various audits conducted between 2017 and 2019 highlighted the lack of adequate emergency exits for the school building's upper floors. The construction of two external metal staircases now guarantees the safe evacuation of students and staff.
The Salle Isbanette, acquired by the Commune in 2012 and closed for several years due to safety concerns, has been completely renovated. This project included the creation of a true village house, the development of the Coin des Macrales, and the provision of spaces for associations, the school, and residents. The ASBL Isbanette now manages the venue and actively participates in local dynamics.
During the inauguration of the community space, the Collège communal also unveiled two commemorative plaques honoring the tragic deaths of two residents of Ohey during a trip to Jordan in 2025. These were Hector and his mother, Christel.
