Bruges 9Brussels Morning newspaper) – Bruges is enhancing flood protection at ‘t Stil Ende with a €330,000 project. Swans are temporarily relocated. Alderman Frank Demon emphasizes the project’s importance for safety and the environment.
In the coming weeks of 2025, there will be important work at ‘t Stil Ende in Bruges. The banks will be strengthened and raised a few centimeters. This is needed to prevent flooding during heavy rain, which has been a problem in the area.
The banks are in bad shape and could collapse if they are not fixed. By raising and reinforcing them, the project aims to keep the area safe during extreme weather. Franky Demon, who is the alderman for Public Domain, says these steps are necessary to protect the local environment and the buildings around it.
How will dredging improve water quality and flood safety?
There will be dredging work done to improve the water system in the area. This will involve removing a 30-centimeter layer of mud from a large area of 9,000 square meters. The water is currently muddy due to too much sediment. By removing this sediment, the water will become clearer.
According to resources, it will help increase oxygen levels and improve water flow. These changes are important for fish and other aquatic life to thrive. The dredging will also help prevent flooding in the future. These efforts aim to restore the natural balance in the area.
How will the new ecological banks benefit Bruges’ swans?
The swans, which are famous in Bruges, had to be moved temporarily during the construction work. The project organizers made sure to think about the animals while doing the work. They are building ecological banks to help the environment.
The banks will use coconut rolls and coconut mats that already have plants growing on them. This will create a better habitat for wildlife when the project is finished. The coconut materials will help keep the banks stable and support healthy plant growth.
This makes it easier for the swans to get in and out of the water.
says Demon.
There will also be a reed shelter for their nests. This will provide the swans with more protection during the breeding season and give them more peace.
After the work is done, the swans will go back to their regular spot in Bruges. Some new swans will also be added to the area. The total cost for the work will be about 330,000 euros. The city of Bruges is spending this money to improve the area for both the animals and the people who live there. The project is expected to finish by the end of January 2025. This means the swans will be back in their home soon after the work is completed.
