Torhout – Resident Sander Neels has installed a homemade warning sign on Groenhovestraat in response to recent near misses involving speeding vehicles. Alderman Pieter Billiet (CD&V) confirmed concerns regarding visibility and announced the implementation of safety measures that will include green emergency lanes, reports 24brussels.
Neels, aged 41, has lived on this rural road for five years. He noted that despite the road’s many bends, drivers tend to exceed the speed limit significantly. His initiative comes after a frightening incident two weeks ago, when a father had to pull his child out of the way of an oncoming car.
Community Response to Speeding Concerns
After the incident, Neels erected the warning sign to remind drivers to reduce their speed. He observed a notable change, stating that since its installation, nearly all motorists have slowed down while passing. The local police conducted a patrol over the weekend, visibly noting the sign.
Alderman Billiet commented on the situation, saying, “It’s a fun action with a clear message. I think it’s good that residents are drawing attention to the livability of their street, although of course, the goal isn’t for everyone to put up a sign.”
Torhout authorities are aware of the ongoing traffic concerns. Billiet indicated that official speed checks have not recorded major violations, but emphasized that poor visibility due to the road’s design poses a significant safety risk. To enhance safety, plans to introduce emergency lanes with green spaces are underway.
In the summer of 2024, the city performed speed checks on Groenhovestraat, revealing no major speeding violations. However, the report confirmed resident worries regarding poor visibility from sharp bends. Despite official findings, community anxiety regarding traffic safety remains high.
On September 5, 2025, Neels experienced a close call when a speeding vehicle passed by as he was pruning his hedge. The sudden rush of air startled him, and he later remarked that the driver did not slow down, reinforcing his decision to act on the neighborhood’s safety concerns.
