Ninove – The Oude Kaaibrug in Ninove has been removed from the €165 million plan to replace 17 bridges in Flanders. Lilianne Stinissen of the Flemish Waterway confirmed that it will now be treated as a separate project. The Beguinebrug, however, remains a priority amid ongoing housing developments in Beaulieu, reports 24brussels.
According to VRT News, the Oude Kaaibrug is no longer part of the Flemish Waterway’s initiative to replace bridges across the region by 2030. Stinissen stated that a timeline for the new project’s commencement has not yet been established.
“The Oude Kaaibrug project is proving more complex than originally estimated. This means we will no longer be replacing the bridge as part of the planned project for 17 bridges, but it will be moved to a separate project. We currently have no idea when that will be possible,”
Stinissen added that the challenges involved have necessitated this separation.
Future of the Oude Kaaibrug in Ninove
Alderman Werner Somers of Forza Ninove expressed concerns over the complexities surrounding the Beguine Bridge project and hopes that the recent postponement does not lead to cancellation. The Beaulieu development plans are expected to establish a significant residential area close to the bridge, potentially necessitating its relocation.
The Flemish Waterway has reiterated that the bridge will be rebuilt. City officials have emphasized the urgency of the matter, stating that the current structure may not endure considerable longer. Despite facing challenges linked to urban development and technical requirements, the bridge remains listed as a priority by the Flemish Waterway.
In July 2024, the agency identified a range of bridges in urgent need of replacement, with many expected to last only 5 to 10 additional years. This initiative is part of a public-private partnership tasked with a budget of €165 million. For Ninove, both the Oude Kaaibrug and the Beginebrug—crossing the Dender River—were included in the initial plans.
The Beguine Bridge has served as a crucial crossing for decades, first erected in the mid-20th century. It frequently requires maintenance, particularly when high waters necessitate its elevation.
The bridge was prioritized for renovation in 2018 by the Flemish Waterway due to its importance in local traffic and accessibility. Over the past five years, discussions regarding its reconstruction or relocation have been hindered by technical difficulties and adjacent urbanization projects, including the Beaulieu residential plan launched in 2023.
