The new cycle highway, a connection of approximately one kilometer between the cycle tunnel at Hofstraat and Lambroeckstraat in Oudegem, was officially opened on Monday, September 28. This new link is part of the expansion of the F43 cycle highway and offers cyclists a safe, smooth, and comfortable route over the former railway bed. Full accessibility for cyclists is planned from Saturday, October 3.
The realization of this four-meter-wide, separated cycle highway is a joint project by the Province of Oost-Vlaanderen, the City of Dendermonde, and Infrabel. Deputy Kurt Moens, responsible for Mobility, emphasized the importance of repurposing former railway beds for sustainable cycling connections, making cycling an attractive alternative to cars and contributing to a liveable Oost-Vlaanderen.
Alderman Niels Tas, responsible for Spatial Planning, Mobility, and Housing, added that the new connection not only increases traffic safety but also better connects the residential area of Oudegem to the center of Dendermonde and soon to the further cycle connection towards Aalst. This makes the cycle highway more attractive for commuting, school trips, and recreational cyclists.
The project is a collaboration between the Province of Oost-Vlaanderen, Dendermonde, and Infrabel. The Province was responsible for the design and coordination, with a cost of €639,129.26, financed by the Flemish Government and the Province. Infrabel provided the former railway bed, while the City of Dendermonde took over its management and handled the local integration.
Further expansion of the F43 is planned. By early 2028, sections between Lambroeckstraat in Dendermonde and Beekweg in Aalst will be realized, followed by the section up to Langehaagstraat in Aalst. The F43 will thus form a continuous cycle connection between Dendermonde and Aalst.
