Leuven – Leuven will commence a €3 million renovation project on Minderbroedersstraat on August 18, 2025. The initiative involves a comprehensive renewal of the street’s pipes, sewers, and surface, overseen by Alderman Dirk Vansina.
As reported by VRT News, the city of Leuven has identified that the roadway connecting the Botanical Garden to Parijsstraat is in significant disrepair due to years of heavy traffic. City officials highlighted that the underground infrastructure, including old pipes and sewers, is in urgent need of replacement.
The initial phase of the project will involve renewing the water and telecommunication lines, followed by a complete overhaul of the sewer system to ensure that dirty water and rainwater are channeled through separate conduits. Once the underground renovations are completed, the city plans to install cobblestones to restore the street’s historic appearance.
Details of the €3M Minderbroedersstraat Project
Alderman Vansina indicated that this project reflects Leuven’s commitment to preserving its history while simultaneously addressing future challenges related to climate change and aging infrastructure.
“The sewer work is no small feat,”
Vansina emphasized the complexity of the project, noting that two branches of the Dijle River intersect beneath Minderbroedersstraat, complicating the renovation efforts.
“Nevertheless, this intervention is necessary.”
Upon completing the underground work, the city’s plans also include resurfacing the roadway with cobblestones to harmonize with the surrounding historic architecture, particularly near the Botanical Garden.
The renovation will be executed in phases to minimize disruption for local residents and businesses. Each section of the street will be addressed sequentially, allowing for continued traffic flow throughout the construction period.
“We primarily want to make it clear that you’re in the historic city centre,”
noted the alderman.
“We also want to send the message that it’s a place where you should adjust your speed. In an area with a school and a residential care centre, that’s certainly not a bad idea.”
The first phase of the surface work will close the section between Parijsstraat and Onze-Lieve-Vrouwstraat for approximately one month. Subsequent work will proceed to the segment from Onze-Lieve-Vrouwstraat to the Botanical Garden.
During construction, traffic will be rerouted through Naamsestraat, the Ring Road, and Kapucijnenvoer. The entire renovation project is expected to be completed by the end of 2027, with potential delays leading to finalization by early 2028. The total projected investment is approximately €3 million.
Officials emphasized that Minderbroedersstraat is a historic thoroughfare in Leuven that connects crucial areas within the lower city. Once part of a route frequented by monks and merchants, prolonged exposure to traffic and weather conditions has severely compromised the street and its underlying infrastructure. The area is characterized by its narrow layout and historic buildings.
, reports 24brussels.
