Kortrijk station environment is becoming greener and safer

But there are also grievances. Work started on the former Appel intersection almost three years ago. That intersection has to make way for a tunnel, but it’s still unfinished. Wout Maddens, alderman for Urban Renewal: “There is indeed still some work to be done. We anticipate that the tunnel will open by the summer of next year.”

And that is six months later than planned. For example, the complete finishing has yet to be done and there will therefore be traffic nuisance around the station environment until the end of the school year. In the meantime, the city wants to make maximum use of road safety, softening and greening above ground.

The Zandstraat, for example, will become a green, car-free square. This will be possible because the city ring will go underground. There will be plenty of space on the square for terraces and greenery, with benches and bicycle sheds. The Magdalenastraat will then be included in zone 30 again and will have wide pedestrian and bicycle paths. Cyclists will be able to cycle safely to the Panorama junction via new separate bicycle tunnels. (read more below the photo)

The Stationsboulevard above the underground car park will also be given a complete makeover. It will be the connection for pedestrians and cyclists between the station and Kortrijk Weide and the surrounding area. (read more below the photo)

Axel Weydts, Alderman for Mobility and Public Works: “With the construction of the public space, the station area is gradually taking on a new face. We are resolutely choosing to give the environment back to local residents. Instead of a busy traffic junction with hundreds of parked cars will come to car-free and green squares here, where it is pleasant and safe for walkers, cyclists and children to play.Our objective is clear: to increase road safety and quality of life, without sacrificing traffic flow for car traffic on the city ring. therefore mainly run underground.”