
On Saturday, April 1, 2023 at 10 a.m., Flemish Minister of Mobility and Public Works Lydia Peeters, West Flemish deputy for tourism and recreation Sabien Lahaye-Battheu, the management of De Vlaamse Waterweg NV, mayor Jan Stevens of Wielsbeke and alderman Rik Soens of Waregem opened the Vlasbrug.
Project description
The Vlasbrug over the Lys between Wielsbeke and Waregem has officially been walked in and cycled in. But it is not only cyclists and pedestrians who can now cross the Lys, it also includes a safe crossing for wheelchair users. Waregem municipality council member Ann Vanheusden (CD&V) remarks: “When the weather is nice, I often go on a walk along the Lys, and it will also be much more pleasant to get across here now.” The bridge provides a beautiful view of the Lys Valley. The bicycle bridge is a new tourist-recreational link on the bicycle network. It connects the towpaths on both sides of the Lys, as well as natural areas such as the Zavelputten, Ooigembos and Oude Leiearm.
The bridge’s name is a reference to the flax industry formerly in the area. It has served as the link to considerable prosperity since the 19th century. “The bridge is also an additional asset for tourists,” says Sabien Lahaye-Battheu (Open VLD) of Westtoer and deputy of the province. “It’s a nice resting point. A picnic area will also be added at a later stage.” The Vlasbrug allows both municipalities to dream of an expanded nature preserve, provincial or otherwise. Waregem has plans to expand this nature and park area.
Steel construction
The bridge is made of steel. It is 165 meters in total length, with a 60-meter span over the Lys River. The clearance is about 7 meters (23 feet) for ships passing below.
The construction of the bridge is part of the Seine-Scheldt project to prepare the shipping lane for larger container and cargo ships. This should ultimately reduce truck traffic along the way.
This new bicycle and pedestrian bridge will allow cyclists and pedestrians to cross the Lys between Waregem and Wielsbeke easily and safely. From the bridge, they can enjoy a scenic view of the Lys Valley, while they can also take in the nature and tourist attractions on both banks at the same time.
From the press on the topic:
- Discover the contribution on Focus WTV from 01/04/2023 here
- Watch the report on VRT Nieuws from 01/04/2023 here
The project
Other news
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