South-West Flanders
Structural investments in files such as the Bossuit-Kortrijk Canal, the GRUP K-R8 and the connection of the E17 to the E403 remain essential, says Voka. “Other strategic infrastructure projects also deserve continued attention. Kortrijk-Wevelgem International Airport is an important asset for the international connectivity of the region. In addition, the further development of the LAR rail terminal in Menen strengthens the position of South-West Flanders as a sustainable logistics hub, with room for more efficient and future-oriented freight transport.”
Central West Flanders
According to Voka, everyone now knows the list of urgent infrastructure works in Central West Flanders. “We are therefore pleased that Minister De Ridder wants to invest heavily in the coming years,” says Voka. She points out, among other things, the third lane on the E403 between Roeselare and Bruges (in both directions) and the renovation and upgrading of the Roeselare–Leie Canal.
Coast
VOKA hopes that the strategic master plan for the blue economy will be launched in 2026. She also hopes that the new interim CEO of the port of Ostend will be given the opportunity to chart a new course.
Key projects are the construction of a new sea lock in Zeebrugge and a new terminal or quay wall in the eastern harbor dam in Ostend. And Ventilus is also a strategic file for the region. “The high-voltage connection is not only indispensable for the electrification of West Flanders, but also necessary for the further development of the offshore energy sector in the North Sea and the support of the port clusters of Ostend and Zeebrugge.”