Cédric Vanden Berghe has been with Wijn & Stael since 2026, where he is part of the Administrative Law practice group. He specialises in environmental and planning law and focuses primarily on matters relating to spatial planning. His clients include property developers, investment funds and public authorities.

Social, committed and strategic
Cédric is a sociable and engaged professional who connects easily with others. He listens carefully and asks targeted questions, enabling him to quickly identify the core of an issue. He advises in a way that is not only legally sound, but also aligned with the client’s broader interests. He has a particular interest in the strategic aspects of his work:
“Identifying the most effective approach, anticipating counterarguments and setting out a well-considered course of action – that is what energises me.”

Focus on environmental and planning law
The practical and societal challenges within environmental and planning law are what motivate Cédric most. He previously worked at a legal consultancy specialising in this field and wrote his thesis on compensation for loss (nadeelcompensatie) under the Environment and Planning Act. He also completed internships at several law firms.

Education

• Master’s degree in Constitutional and Administrative Law, University of Amsterdam (2026)
• Bachelor of Laws, Maastricht University (2023)

Cases

• Advised a municipality on the scope of its advisory powers under the Environment and Planning Act.
• Assisted clients in proceedings concerning the granting of an environmental permit for an out-of-plan environmental plan activity (BOPA).