Bruges – The city of Bruges has commenced the installation of 30 wooden barriers at the entrances of the Beisbroek, Chartreuzinnenbos, and Tudor nature reserves to counter illegal dumping. Alderman Franky Demon reports that city workers collect approximately 500 kilograms of waste monthly; the initial ten barriers were positioned in Beisbroek, reports 24brussels.
The decision comes amid persistent issues with illegal waste disposal in these green spaces. The collected refuse includes garden cuttings, construction debris, discarded computer screens, cat litter, and various household items.
“The findings show that it’s often green waste, but sometimes it also contains non-native species such as bamboo, yellow deadnettle, and even Japanese knotweed,”
explains Franky Demon (CD&V), Alderman for Public Domain.
“And that’s not good for our environment.”
What impact will 30 wooden barriers have on Bruges reserves?
According to Simon Brandt, a city nature expert, the barriers are specifically designed to prevent vehicle access while allowing pedestrians and cyclists to enter. He notes that illegal dumpers often exploit the entrance areas, believing they can go unnoticed, and some drivers take these routes to evade alcohol checks.
In Beisbroek, the first phase has been completed, with ten barriers installed at critical entry points. Constructed from wood, the barriers are designed to blend into the natural surroundings, featuring pedestrian gates and separate openings for cyclists.
Prior to this initiative, in 2021, Bruges had already implemented measures by installing wooden posts and gates at various entrances in the Zevenkerkenbos and Ryckevelde reserves to limit car access and curb illegal dumping. In 2022, more barriers were added near Tillegembos as part of a broader strategy to protect vulnerable natural zones.
