The Eastern Tangent will become the new link road between the N70/R42 junction and the E17 along the Sint-Niklaas–Mechelen railway line. Two tunnels, four bridges, five bicycle tunnels, and two cycle bridges will ensure safe and efficient traffic flow. This new infrastructure not only improves accessibility to various business zones and the train station, but it also reduces traffic pressure in Sint-Niklaas. At the same time, the internal road network of Europark-South will be renewed, optimizing the access of the industrial park to the E17.
In 2017, SBE had already completed an approved preliminary design for the Eastern Tangent. However, due to various procedures and objections against the route, the permit file could not be prepared at that time. Meanwhile, the Agency for Roads and Traffic and the City of Sint-Niklaas, together with the relevant stakeholders, have created sufficient support to bring this project back to life.
SBE was tasked with further developing the Eastern Tangent dossier up to the preparation of the environmental permit application. Initially, the 2017 preliminary design is thoroughly reviewed against all new requirements, such as current standards and guidelines, new policy and vision documents, and the impact of already completed or planned projects in the surrounding area.
In addition to the technical design of the various tunnels, bridges, and roads, SBE pays close attention to the landscape integration of the project. For this purpose, a detailed landscape biography is prepared, supplemented with an extensive sustainability screening to make the design both functional and future-proof.
SBE refines the design of the Eastern Tangent to fully meet the latest requirements and insights. This optimized design is developed into a detailed 3D BIM model, which serves as the basis for the preliminary design plans and drawings for the environmental permit application.
In addition, a comprehensive environmental impact report (EIR) is prepared, which also includes the redevelopment and access improvements of the Europark-South industrial park. As a locally rooted company, we feel the impact of this major infrastructure project up close. With this thoughtful and integrated approach, SBE, together with subcontractor Arcadis, contributes to the sustainable and future-oriented implementation of this local project.
In addition to the technical aspect of the project, SBE also takes responsibility for communication and stakeholder management. Since a project of this scale has a major impact on the region, it is essential that it is widely supported by all parties involved. SBE, together with the communications agency DenS, ensures active communication with stakeholders so that all interests are well understood and the project can be implemented with support and enthusiasm.
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