A motion, stemming from a meeting at the end of June with the federal Minister of Mobility, the Limburg governor, members of parliament, and other stakeholders, underscores the importance of the cross-border railway connection. The municipalities of Lommel, Pelt, and Hamont-Achel were asked to emphasize this significance.
The railway line between Hamont and Weert is still sporadically used for freight transport and was renewed in Dutch territory in 2008. This section awaits activation for passenger transport. "Practically, it is possible," notes Tom Cox, mayor of Hamont-Achel. "The Antwerp-Hamont train stands idle for 40 minutes every hour in Hamont. This time could be better utilized by serving Weert. With a limited investment, an existing rail connection could thus grow into a direct link between Antwerp, Hamont, and Weert."
The three municipal administrations are convinced that the realization of this relatively simple new international line ANTWERP-HAMONT-WEERT will contribute to increased cross-border traffic. "Good connections do not stop at the border," says Dennis Fransen, mayor of Pelt. "A train connection between Hamont and Weert makes it easier for residents of North Limburg and Dutch Limburg to travel across the border, thereby strengthening accessibility in our region."
A train connection between Hamont and Weert offers residents from both the Netherlands and Belgium the opportunity to cross the border comfortably and environmentally friendly. From the Netherlands, the Antwerp-Brussels-Leuven triangle becomes more easily accessible, as does Brainport Eindhoven from Belgium. Furthermore, the connection to the Dutch North-South railway axis creates a link with international lines towards Germany.
"The Hamont-Weert connection can become an important link in the further development of North Limburg," believes Bob Nijs, mayor of Lommel. "It brings our region closer to the bustling Eindhoven and simultaneously connects to the Dutch and international rail network. Therefore, it is important that Belgium and the Netherlands now work together on the next step."
The three municipalities are therefore asking the Minister of Mobility Jean-Luc Crucke to advocate for the swift realization of the adaptation of the existing passenger line between Hamont and Weert during his meeting with the Dutch State Secretary for Infrastructure and Water Management, planned for this autumn, and to allocate the necessary investment funds for this purpose.
