How one tree can change the future of a neighbourhood: The process behind the creation of the Boerenhof Park as an example for tactical urban planning

In this paper, the process behind the making of the Boerenhof Park on an urban Waiting Space in Ghent (Belgium) is discussed. We are highlighting how in this case 'tactical urbanism' actions, such as planting a tree, turned out to have a long-term impact and as such can inform a 'tactical urban planning' approach. Through a learning by reflection method, the Boerenhof Park case has been re-analysed using a conceptual framework built up around the concepts of 'scratch', 'scar' and 'score'. The focus was on discerning the transgressional elements for moving from short-term interventions to long-term change. Three key aspects are brought to light: the incremental approach, a desire-driven program, and a transversal collaboration. We argue that these are key aspects for the operationalisation of a tactical urban planning approach.