The municipal government and Pidpa are working on the renewal of Hofstede. The project includes new sewerage, wider bicycle paths, a renovated roadway, and an adapted layout of the Hofstede - Nijverheidsstraat intersection. During a previous information market, the design was presented with an adjusted right-of-way, fitting within the Westcirculatie vision to route through traffic around the center.
However, Infrabel issued negative advice concerning the planned right-of-way, warning of the risk of traffic jams extending onto the railway crossing. Despite efforts to retain the original design, the advice remains negative due to safety risks at the railway crossing. The municipal government regrets that this step cannot be executed as planned but wishes not to jeopardize the broader sewerage and roadworks project. Therefore, an adjusted plan has been developed.
The planned change to the right-of-way at the Hofstede - Nijverheidsstraat intersection will not be retained. However, the intersection will be designed to be more compact and safer than the current situation. Bicycle crossings will be clearer, cyclists will have a recognizable place in the intersection, and the connection of the Nijverheidsstraat will be more straightforward. A two-way cycle path will be created in the Nijverheidsstraat up to just past the Tortelstraat. The core of the project, including separate sewerage, a renovated roadway, and wider bicycle paths, will be maintained.
Due to the adjustments, a new public inquiry will be held from Friday, October 23, to Saturday, November 21. The new public notice will be posted on Thursday, October 22. During this inquiry, interested parties can view the file and submit motivated comments or objections. The complete file will be available online via the Omgevingsloket (dossier OMV_2026080460) and can be viewed by appointment at the spatial planning department in ’t Getouw, Molenhoekstraat 2.
Comments or objections can be submitted against a receipt at the reception and information desk in ’t Getouw, by post to the college of mayor and aldermen, Molenhoekstraat 2, 2400 Mol (mention dossier number OMV_2026080460 / 2026/302), or by email with receipt confirmation to ro@gemeentemol.be.
After the public inquiry, all comments and objections, along with the advice from relevant services, will be reviewed. The deputation of the province of Antwerp will then decide on the permit phase.
