Following measurements, historical research, fieldwork, and intensive consultation, the involved parties have found a sustainable solution for the historic slow road. The reopening restores an important local walking connection and provides residents of Grote Vinnestraat, Vinnestraat, and Zwartaardeweg with additional access to the Provinciedomein Het Vinne.
The Rondeweg forms the central axis in the hamlet behind the Vinnemeer. Its reopening allows residents and visitors to once again make a quiet local walking circuit, better connecting the surrounding streets with the nature and recreational opportunities of Het Vinne. This represents a concrete improvement for local residents, who now have direct access to the domain again.
Ann Schevenels, deputy for provincial domains, highlighted the significance of the reopening: “They will once again have direct access to Het Vinne and can now do 'their round' again. Visitors to the border of Flemish Brabant and Limburg will also gain an attractive access point to nature, tranquility, and recreation.”
The reopening followed an intensive process, marked by collaboration between the City of Zoutleeuw, Regionaal Landschap Zuid-Hageland, Provinciedomein Het Vinne, the Technical Executive Service, and the involved landowners. Raf Lambeets, alderman for Public Works of the City of Zoutleeuw, expressed his pride: “Today, I am especially proud that together we have ensured that people can finally walk on the Rondeweg again. This reopening is the result of cooperation, perseverance, and a shared conviction that slow roads are valuable for our residents and visitors.”
The initiators thank everyone who contributed to the process and the reopening, including Ann Schevenels, Raf Lambeets, Thomas Stijnen, and Frank Ilsbroux.
