New vantage point and resting point in Mariakerke: this is how Ostend wants to attract families

The construction will take place at the height of the Dorpsstraat and fits within the cycling and walking routes along the coast, the city of Ostend says in a statement. The work will last until the end of March.

There are numerous cycling and walking routes along the coast – and therefore also in Ostend. The city of Ostend decided to build a resting place at a strategic point for the many walkers and cyclists.

Wooden jetty of 41 meters with “beautiful” view

In the plans, the rest and viewpoint is conceived as a jetty of no less than 41 meters long, with a connection to the Zeedijk, but also to the beach. It is a wooden construction that primarily serves as a resting point for cyclists and walkers. There will be benches and a picnic area.

“A wonderful vantage point to admire the beaches of Ostend and, in good weather, to admire our entire coastline,” says Björn Anseeuw.

Open construction with respect for beach and dike

The jetty with connection to the Zeedijk will be constructed from solid hardwood. Access to the beach will be by stairs, with several landings (or intermediate platforms).

A spacious lounge area with a sofa is created on each platform. The constructions will fit in well with the dike and the beach experience will remain optimal.

New asset in Mariakerke for young and old

“With this unique vantage point and resting point, we have a new asset for young and old in Mariakerke. A cozy picnic, a nice selfie or a break during the many walking and cycling routes that run along here, it’s all possible,” says Mayor Bart Tommelein.

“We are continuing to build the most family-friendly seaside resort on the coast. During the summer months there is already a wooden amphitheater on the beach and there are numerous activities, with this new eye-catcher we will live up to that title all year round.”

Getting ready for the Easter holidays

Work started recently. The work is expected to be completed at the end of March, before the Easter holidays. In this way, the construction of the beach cabins is not compromised. The cost price is 635,383 euros (incl. VAT) with a subsidy in the context of Eurocyclo (worth 235,750 euros) and the province of West Flanders (worth 47,150 euros).