Groenendaal junction
In order to thoroughly redesign the Groenendaal junction, a regional spatial implementation plan is needed, a GRUP. This is being drawn up via an integrated planning process. And that is where we start now.
Below, we summarise what we want to do and why we are doing it.
Why are we renewing the junction?
For safer traffic and smoother traffic flows
Just like the rest of the Ring Road, the Groenendaal junction is beset by many problems. There are structural traffic jams and cut-through traffic. That is why we are working on a smoother-flowing, safer traffic system for pedestrians, cyclists, public transport users and motorists.
- We are providing safe and attractive bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure thanks to the bicycle highway that connects Brussels with La Hulpe. We are also improving the connection between Groenendaal station and the Bosmuseum.
- We will improve the flow for the bus and tram routes that cross the Groenendaal junction, with easy transfer options. The car park facilities at the train station will also be addressed.
- We will make the Groenendaal junction safer and more logical for car and truck traffic. This improves the flow of traffic.
- We are developing the Groenendaal station into a hub where you can easily switch from one mode of transport to another.
For better quality of life
We are making life around the Ring more pleasant. This means less noise pollution, less cut-through traffic, better air quality as well as more natural environment and open space.
- We are discouraging the cut-through traffic in the residential zones around the Groenendaal junction.
- The new connections, such as the Priory Eco-recreaduct, will help to restore and reinvigorate the Sonian Forest. Better coherence gives nature new opportunities.
- In the vicinity of Groenendaal, we are actively looking for areas that qualify for forest expansion.
- Attention to open spaces means that we will use the least possible amount of space when redesigning the junction while also eliminating any superfluous hard surfacing.
- We are creating more space for recreation by expanding the welcome gates to the Sonian Forest, such as the Bosmuseum. We will make them easily accessible by public transport and bicycle.
- Keeping the bigger picture in mind means we will ensure that the new layout of the Groenendaal junction is integrated into the landscape.
What are we going to do?
At this stage of the process, all options are still open. Several different solutions are possible. All options have equal validity and will be assessed in the same way.
We summarise everything for you in the presentation below.
Alternative 1: 'current GRUP'
In this option, the junction is designed so that fewer direct connections to the Ring are needed:
- The main traffic flows take place via Terhulpsesteenweg, which connects to Groenendaalsesteenweg.
- In addition, various transport options will be combined at the station in order to create a multi-modal hub.
Alternative 2: 'North - DWV'
This option also runs via Terhulpsesteenweg, which connects with Groenendaalsesteenweg. But there are also some differences:
- We will make the bend in the road less sharp. This means that less traffic will pass through vulnerable areas in the north.
- By softening the curve, there will be less traffic passing through sensitive areas in the north.
- The new tunnel under the railway will be positioned more to the west. This will create more space for parking and a new bicycle and pedestrian tunnel.
We will remove the road surfacing in the zone on the south side of the railway (Terhulpsesteenweg).
- This is how we can develop the Bosmuseum into a new gateway to the Sonian Forest.
- Between the station and the Bosmuseum we are building the Priory Eco-recreaduct.
