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
Curious about what is happening within SBE? Or in which projects we are involved? Through these newsitems we will keep you informed about our projects and the ins and outs within SBE.
-
- Experts at Play
- Sustainability
SBE shines as the new Flemish sustainability ambassador at Voka’s Sustainable Business Day.
24/10/2025During the 8th Voka Sustainable Business Day in Mechelen, SBE from Sint-Niklaas was announced on Thursday evening (23/10/25) as one of the five new Flemish sustainability ambassadors of the United Nations. From now on, the Waas engineering firm will serve internationally as an example for other companies striving for more sustainable operations. -
- Projects
Rijkswaterstaat and market parties start collaboration on new framework agreements
01/10/2025On 30 September, Rijkswaterstaat and the contracted market parties will jointly celebrate the start of a new phase in their collaboration. Over the next four to six years, these parties will work together under the new Framework Cooperation Agreements (SROKs) for Engineering Services and Project and Process Management. These agreements are of great importance for successfully carrying out Rijkswaterstaat’s major renewal program. -
- Experts at Play
- Jobs
Breaking the age barrier: how SBE turns experience into a competitive advantage
22/08/2025At 70 years old, Lubov Izbash comes to the office every morning full of enthusiasm. The architect, trained in both Russia and Belgium and having worked at engineering firm SBE for nearly two decades, embodies a ready-made solution to Belgium’s staff shortage. “Architecture is my work and my passion,” Lubov explains, her eyes lighting up as she talks about her latest projects. “I still feel young here every day, even at 70. Some even consider me a real workaholic!” she laughs. Her story and energy challenge every assumption about older employees in today’s fast-paced economy.
