Brussels traffic alert: Leonard tunnel renovation causes delays

Lailuma Sadid
Credit: Getty

Brussels (Brussels Morning Newspaper): The second phase of the Leonard Tunnel renovation begins March 18, 2024, aiming to enhance safety and make it last longer. The project involves a €28 million investment and is expected to complete by early 2025.

Traffic heading to Zaventem on the outer ring road (R0) is being redirected through the tunnel lane usually used for cars going to Waterloo. This change is because of ongoing work in the Leonard Tunnel. The temporary setup allows workers to make repairs in the Zaventem lane while keeping traffic moving. This adjustment is important for the renovation of this busy route in the Brussels ring.

What delays can drivers expect this weekend on the route to Zaventem?

This weekend, drivers heading to Zaventem will face more delays. On Saturday and Sunday, the road will be reduced to one lane so the Roads and Traffic Department can set up a large tent at one of the tunnel entrances. The tent will help protect the workers and improve their working conditions. Commuters are advised to expect significant delays and to consider using alternate routes or allowing extra travel time.

As autumn begins, the weather will get colder and wetter, which affects construction work. To keep things moving, the Roads and Traffic Department is putting up a tent at the exit of the outer ring road tunnel where work is happening. This tent will be 145 meters long and 2.5 meters high, covering both lanes. In November, a second tent will be added at the tunnel entrance. Traffic from Zaventem to Waterloo will be diverted above ground starting in July, and after the tents are taken down, one lane of the outer ring road will still be closed during the day on Saturdays and Sundays.

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Lailuma Sadid is a former diplomat in the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan Embassy to the kingdom of Belgium, in charge of NATO. She attended the NATO Training courses and speakers for the events at NATO H-Q in Brussels, and also in Nederland, Germany, Estonia, and Azerbaijan. Sadid has is a former Political Reporter for Pajhwok News Agency, covering the London, Conference in 2006 and Lisbon summit in 2010.
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