Hoevenen – The Antwerpse Steenweg McDonald’s permit was denied due to traffic, safety, and nuisance concerns in Hoevenen. Mayor Herman Jongenelen and Alderman Bardyn emphasised protecting cyclists, children, and village character, reports 24brussels.
The city council has rejected a proposal for a new McDonald’s with a drive-thru and fast-charging station on Antwerpse Steenweg in Hoevenen, in the province of Antwerp. The decision stems from significant worries regarding traffic congestion and safety.
Officials expressed that the already busy road would see an influx of at least 86 additional vehicles per hour if the restaurant were approved. More than half of these vehicles would be new visitors rather than passersby, leading to heightened congestion.
This increased traffic is anticipated to exacerbate existing jams, complicating navigation for both drivers and local residents. According to officials, the current traffic levels render the road incapable of accommodating further vehicles without risking severe complications.
What are the risks of a McDonald’s drive-thru on Antwerpse Steenweg?
The council also highlighted safety considerations for cyclists. The proposed entrance for the McDonald’s drive-thru would intersect a busy two-way cycle path utilized daily by schoolchildren and commuters. Officials cautioned that higher traffic would jeopardize cyclist safety, raising concerns over potential accidents.
Residents raised additional issues, including increased litter, noise pollution, late-night disturbances, and threats to the village’s character. After evaluating these factors, the council concluded that the drawbacks of the project far outweighed any potential benefits, deeming the location unsuitable for such development.
“Mobility is more than just cars. This project ignores cyclists and pedestrians,”
stated Mayor Herman Jongenelen (Sterk2940). Alderman Bardyn pointed out that establishing a fast-food restaurant is ill-suited for an area where many children cycle to school daily. The council is also concerned that a 24-hour drive-thru would lead to nighttime issues such as noisy gatherings, vandalism, and other disturbances.
The municipality warned that the proposed drive-thru would likely lead to more litter in surrounding residential streets. Officials noted that fast-food establishments often generate significant waste, particularly from disposable packaging, raising concerns about cleanliness and quality of life in the area.
Furthermore, the council stated that the restaurant would not align with the small-scale, residential nature of the neighbourhood. Alderman Jongenelen affirmed that the council prioritizes livability, safety, and the preservation of the village’s identity over unchecked development.
A similar incident took place in 2022 in the Flemish town of Ternat, where the municipal council rejected plans for a new fast-food restaurant with a drive-thru, citing heavy traffic on the main road, safety risks for cyclists and pedestrians, and concerns about increased litter and noise.
