Bruges – (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – The City of Bruges is launching two key infrastructure upgrade projects: a major cleaning and inspection of the main sewer network and the installation of energy-efficient LED lighting in historic buildings expected by the year 2026.
LED Lighting announcement
The first project is aimed at cleaning and technical operations.
Bruges is to have an improved lighting infrastructure.
Fluvius (Belgian network operator of electricity and natural gas in all municipalities of the Flemish Region) has launched an ambitious undertaking to modernize antiquated lighting systems by providing modern, energy-saving LED lighting in various priceless Bruges heritage locations—most notably the magnificent Sint-Salvator’s Cathedral, busy Markt square, and ancient Burg. This installation, totalling around €701,888.50, including Value Added Tax, helps to reduce power bills while giving Bruges’ heritage an added sparkle by making it glow with renewed brilliance.
Edwin Thieren, Fluvius Key Account Manager, explained to us how the team would conduct an initial investigation to pinpoint the most appropriate fittings and locations.
He disclosed that in addition to improving only the scenic value of Bruges’ sights, the goal is to achieve substantial energy savings for citizens.
Pieter Marechal, who is an Alderman in Heritage, Public Procurement, Facility Management, ICT, and Smart City, said:
Currently, enhancements to lighting in both the Burg and in the Markt area are in process. New LED lighting fixtures have already been implemented in the Belfry. The next target is to work in the Sint-Salvator’s Cathedral.
Mr. Marechal gave his warm endorsement to the scheme, calling it an ideal balance between modern development and legacy preservation.
“The endeavor to retrofit with LEDs is proof that we can respect our heritage while working towards an ecologically friendly future. This is not only an inspirational exercise in Bruges, but an urban development paradigm worldwide,” he added.
The final phase is scheduled to begin later this year, with development work to kick in in late 2025 or early 2026, while completion is expected by next year in the mid-term. This is an important event, the groundbreaking project that blends both modern and traditional aspects in perfect harmony to present an incredibly enriching experience to all who live in Brugge.
Sewer overhaul
During the work commissioned by Farys (the government organisation with a wide range of services), be sure to close toilets, sinks, and washbasins with a lid or plug so that you are not bothered by splashing dirty water while cleaning the sewer system.
From Monday, March 3 to Wednesday, March 12, and Tuesday, March 18 to Wednesday, March 19!
During the insertion of the ‘stocking liner’, there is no connection to the sewer network for 12 hours, and no waste water may be discharged. The contractor will inform you in advance when these works will take place. Small discharges such as the use of toilets and washbasins are permitted, but the use of washing machines and dishwashers, kitchen drains, showers, and/or baths is not.
You can find more about the Cipp Lining Technique and its advantages in the enclosed letter from Farys.
Where the contractor is working, the household waste collection truck cannot drive. Therefore, place your garbage bags on the corner of Sint-Clarastraat or Annuntiatenstraat. Ask less mobile neighbors if you can help them.
More information can be obtained by visiting http://www.brugge.be/verkeershinder or by contacting netinfrastructuur.brugge@farys.be.
