Brussels, 22 September, (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Brussels sustainable mobility has returned to the centre of the capital’s transport debate after the Brussels-Capital Region restricted most motorised traffic for its 26th Car-Free Sunday on 20 September. Streets across all 19 municipalities were largely handed to pedestrians, cyclists and other forms of active transport, while the STIB-MIVB public transport network operated free of charge.
Brussels sustainable mobility highlighted by traffic restrictions
The car-free restrictions operated from 9.30am until 7pm as part of European Mobility Week, which runs from 16 to 22 September.
Motorised vehicles were generally prohibited, although exemptions applied to public transport, emergency and law-enforcement vehicles, taxis and vehicles holding special permits. Authorised vehicles were required to observe a maximum speed of 30 km/h.
The Brussels Ring and motorways remained open, while access roads leading into the restricted region were closed.
STIB offers free travel and additional services
STIB-MIVB offered free travel across its metro, tram and bus network and increased services to accommodate passengers.
The operator reminded people that a car-free city did not mean traffic risks had disappeared.
STIB-MIVB said: “There’s still some traffic on Car Free Sunday, so respect the traffic regulations and watch out for our buses and our trams, that have a longer braking distance.”
Metro services were scheduled at intervals of six minutes and 30 seconds between 1pm and 7pm, while extra capacity was planned on several tram and bus routes.
Brussels Metro marks 50 years of service
This year’s event carried additional significance because 20 September marked exactly 50 years since Brussels inaugurated its first metro in 1976.
STIB said the system has recorded almost five billion journeys over five decades. Anniversary activities included an open day at the Jacques Brel metro and bus depot, where visitors could explore maintenance facilities and see the latest generation of electric buses and charging infrastructure.
The operator said the open day demonstrated “how STIB-MIVB invests in the mobility of tomorrow.”
Survey shows support for more car-free days
The annual event also coincided with fresh evidence about public attitudes towards car-free initiatives.
A survey commissioned by clean-air organisation Les chercheurs d’air and conducted by research institute Dedicated found that 70% of respondents wanted more car-free days in the Brussels-Capital Region. The survey found 21% supported at least two annually and 24% favoured at least four.
Mobility debate continues after annual event
Normal traffic resumed after 7pm on Sunday, but the event has again focused attention on how Brussels allocates public space among motorists, cyclists, pedestrians and public transport.
European Mobility Week concludes on 22 September. The latest survey adds to the debate over whether car-free initiatives should become more frequent, although any expansion would depend on decisions by the relevant Brussels authorities.
