To ensure smooth and safe traffic flow from north to south of Wetteren and vice versa, plans are being made for a new Scheldt bridge in the north and a new railway bridge in the south. These interventions are intended to enhance the quality of life and traffic safety in the town center.
On October 27th, 130 interested individuals attended an information market at the town hall. Residents received explanations about the project and the next steps, and had the opportunity to voice their questions and comments. This process builds upon insights from an intensive project conducted in 2022 and 2023.
The province is currently conducting a deeper investigation into potential locations and routes for the bridge. This research will yield several proposed routes, the environmental effects of which will be assessed in an environmental impact report (EIR). Based on this, the final route will be selected and established in the Spatial Implementation Plan (SIP).
It is not yet certain whether a bridge outside the town center will be preferred; the results of the environmental study are pending. However, the current Scheldt bridge, dating from 1954, is worn out and in need of replacement. The new bridge will also need to be higher to allow larger container ships to pass underneath.
During the week of October 26th, traffic counts will be carried out to measure traffic flows. A camera on the Markt and counting loops at other locations will assist in traffic modeling for the North-South connection.
The municipality, in collaboration with the province, will organize several more opportunities for citizens to provide their input.
