the nineteenth century, urbanization would only begin in the twentieth century. Many large scale urban functions were 'dropped' in the undestined area previously occupied by the Brialmont-fortifications (like the event hall Sportpaleis Merksem). Urban planning started in 1913 and although the original plan was never fully realised it did determine the spatial structure of Deurne. A real demographic explosion happened because of this urban planning and the need for many Antwerp residents to find modern housing. The population grew from 15,432 in 1920 to 52,303 in 1935. World War II halted this evolution, mainly because of the V-2 bombardments. After 1945 the growth of Deurne started again and in the 1960s social housing & other community projects further enhanced this new urban identity of Deurne. From 1972 onward Deurne was subject to the urban exodus and the urban sprawl whereby people moved from the dense urban centres towards the suburbs. As a result, the population began to diminish in numbers and the remaining population became older. In 1983 Deurne was absorbed into the municipality of Greater Antwerp (see : Antwerp) whereby Deurne became one of the 9 districts. In 2001 Antwerp was decentralised, Deurne once again has its own elected council, not a city council but a district council, not a mayor but a 'chairman of the district governing board'... Major attractions Deurne has one of the oldest still functioning airports in the world, established in 1923. Antwerp Airport is a regional airport with only a limited number of flights a day. Located at the airport is the Stampe & Vertongen Museum, at the location of the old aircraft production company of the same name. Politics District college The members of the district college between Januari 1, 2019 and 31 December 2024 are: District council The district council of Deurne has a total of 29 seats. De district council chairman is Frank Geudens (SP.A). Notable people Erik Van Looy, film director and TV quiz presentater An Pierlé, musician Björn Leukemans, cyclist Economy VLM Airlines has its head office on the grounds of Antwerp International Airport in Deurne; the office is also CityJet's Antwerp office. References Districts of Antwerp Populated places in Antwerp Province