Sewerage works will follow during a later phase. Car traffic will then be interrupted over the bridge for up to six months. Crossing remains possible for cyclists and pedestrians.
The project is alive and well among local residents, although the possible nuisance is not underestimated. “Six months without car traffic will take a long time. We have already experienced that here with works that lasted two years,” says local resident Silvie Nollet.
The impact remains limited for gentle road users. “Cyclists and pedestrians will always be able to cross the Leie via the old or new bridge. Only the towpath on the Wevelgem side will be interrupted, but there will be a diversion of approximately 300 meters,” says Weymeis.
New public spaces will also be created on the banks, including a village garden at Lauwe and an experience zone with picnic meadow in Wevelgem.
The total cost of the project is more than 33 million euros, half of which is financed by Europe. The new bridge should be fully in use by 2030.