Leonard junction

In order to thoroughly redesign the Leonard 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.

Go to info point Leonard junction 

Why are we renewing the junction?

For safer traffic and smoother traffic flows

Just as with the rest of the Ring Road, the Leonard junction is beset by many problems. In addition, more people are coming to live and work here. 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 building safe and attractive bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure. We are expanding the cycle path between Brussels and Maleizen into a fully-fledged and safe bicycle highway: the F204.
  • We will ensure a better flow for the public transport routes that cross the Leonard junction, with easy transfer options. The car park facilities at the train station will also be addressed.
  •  We are making the Leonard junction safer and more logical for car and truck traffic. The junction layout will be fully equipped and made safe. This will also improve traffic flow.

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 cut-through traffic from entering the residential areas around the Leonard junction, so that through traffic remains on the main road network.
  • The new connections will enable us to restore and reinvigorate the Sonian Forest. Better coherence gives nature new opportunities.
  • Attention to open space 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. 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 Leonard junction fits into the landscape.

 What are we proposing?

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.

The ‘basic star junction’ option

Compared to the current situation, this option offers a number of benefits:

  • By completing the junction and enabling a left turn on the Ring, traffic does not have to continue to Jezus-Eik or Vierarmen.
  • Turning right from the Ring will be done underground.
  • In the direction of Brussels, we are planning a slightly raised urban boulevard, creating space for an ecological link.
  • The F204 bicycle highway will be constructed to the south of the junction.
  • Space will be made available for recreation and the natural environment above the new and existing tunnels. 

The ‘half star/Dutch complex’ option

This option is similar to the basic option:

  • The completed junction will also enable turning left from the Ring.
  • The connection of the E411 from and to Wavre with the Ring will be placed on a different level. 
  • The F204 cycle path will also run south of the interchange in this option.

But there are also some differences:

  • The connection with the Ring, to and from Brussels, will be via a 'Dutch complex'. This is a junction in the shape of a half star with traffic lights.
  • The existing tunnels of the north-south connection will be at level -1, where they are currently deeper underground. This will therefore require major works. 

  • The outcome will be a much more compact junction than is achieved in the basic option.