New, safe bridge Hector Henneaulaan

Safer roads, better traffic flow and a more pleasant environment for people and animals are key elements of the ‘Werken aan de Ring’ programme. We are accelerating a number of road works projects within the programme. One of these kinds of 'quick wins' is the renovation of the extremely outdated Hector Henneaulaan bridge over the Ring. The project improves the situation for all road users and perfectly illustrates our multimodal approach.

Building a safe bridge and smooth access and exit ramps

Traffic on the bridge of Hector Henneaulaan often comes to a standstill. Cyclists and pedestrians do not dare cross the bridge because the situation is unsafe. Buses also get stuck in traffic queues. The construction of a new bridge will change this situation. At the same time, we are also tackling the associated connections with the Ring Road. The result will be better accessibility for residents, traders and local businesses.

A wide bridge with room for all road users

The new bridge will be twice as wide and will offer space for all road users to travel smoothly and safely. We are doing this by constructing:

1. a separate cycle path and footpath,
2. a separate bus lane for public transport,
3. separated lanes for motorised traffic and
4. a green zone ('wildlife bridge') for plants and animals.

Investing in a pleasant and green environment

There are valued green zones on both sides of the Ring. The new bridge will have a wildlife bridge and a green corridor over the entire length of the new bridge that will connect these zones. This will allow animals to cross the Ring safely. We will also make the green zones more accessible for local residents and people working in the area.

Planning

After an initial, preparatory phase of landscaping and utility work, the contractor is set to begin reconstructing and installing the two halves of the bridge. These complex works will end, subject to unforeseen circumstances, in April 2024. Read more under phasing.

Nuisance

During the construction of the bridge itself, the works will divided into different phases. This is so we never have to disrupt traffic on the Ring for long periods and to ensure that traffic flow on the Hector Henneaulaan will almost never be interrupted.

All movement of traffic between Hector Henneaulaan, Woluwelaan (R22) and the Ring are similarly guaranteed. We will plan any interruptions to traffic as much as possibleto occur in low-traffic-calmed periods such as at the weekends and in school holidays, for as far as is possible.

More information is available under the heading timeline.

Future situation