Mobility newsletter August 2023

What's new in mobility? At the start of each month, we share the latest news related to mobility.

In the news 📰

Works on the Vilvoorde viaduct have started since 16 August. In total, the works will last eight years. In the current first phase, work is being carried out on the inner ring road of the viaduct. The inner ring road has a speed limit of 50 kilometres per hour and narrowed lanes. On weekends, traffic heavier than 3.5 tonnes will be prohibited from using the viaduct. This phase will last until the end of 2025. After this phase, the outer ring road will also be renovated. Source

In Antwerp, only residents and people with permits are now allowed to park on the streets in the historic city centre. Visitors can park in public pay parking lots or at park and rides on the outskirts of the city. This will make it easier for inner-city residents to park. Although it will be more difficult for some business owners to work in the city centre. Source

Mobility facts 🧮

Brussels is experiencing an increase in cycling and scooter accidents. Over the past four years, accidents increased by 20 per cent and 421 per cent respectively. Although it is important to mention that actual bicycle and scooter use has increased even more. The risk of an accident in Brussels has thus decreased. The number of injured pedestrians and motorists in Brussels did fall in absolute terms. Source

The number of problems in new cars has risen over the past year. In 2022, there were 180 defects per 100 cars. This spring, there is already an average of 192 problems per 100 cars. Common problems are problems with the lane-keeping assist and with the automatic emergency braking system. Increasing and rapid technology is affecting this. Often these technology elements have not been sufficiently tested. Source

Did you know❓

The number of trains between Brussels and Rotterdam/Amsterdam will double from the end of next year. The number of trains will increase from 16 to 32 trains per day. The trains will also be 45 minutes faster. This is because more modern trains will be used and because there will be fewer stops along the journey route. Source

To combat the number of bicycle thefts, the city of Brussels will test out two systems of secure bicycle parking from 2024. The two systems, Locky and Sharelock, will be controlled via an app and provide secure parking. After two years, both systems will be evaluated. Source