Flanders (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – The Flemish government will spend €60 million (2025–2027) to repair and modernise roads in Antwerp, Zeebrugge, Ghent, and Genk. Minister Annick De Ridder leads the project for safer, stronger, and efficient transport.
As VRT News reported, the Flemish government will spend nearly €60 million to repair and improve roads in and around the ports of Antwerp, Zeebrugge, Ghent, and Genk. The work will take place between 2025 and 2027. Heavy freight traffic has caused severe damage to these roads over time.
The Roads and Traffic Agency (AW), together with Minister of Mobility and Public Works Annick De Ridder (N-VA), has started a large-scale renovation program. The program will cover 20 locations across the 4 ports.
“Keeping our ports easily accessible ensures prosperity throughout Flanders,”
says De Ridder.
“These works are necessary, and I’m making them a priority. We’re also planning for several years, so citizens, businesses, and local authorities know what to expect.”
What safety and traffic improvements are planned for Flanders’ roads?
The renovations will also focus on safety and accessibility. Minister De Ridder said the works are essential for supporting Flanders’ ports and logistics network. The investment combines immediate repairs with long-term improvements.
Work will start shortly on the junction of Antwerpsebaan (N180) and Laageind (N111), at the border of the port area of Antwerp and Stabroek. The junction will be entirely overhauled to enhance both traffic and safety. Bypass lanes will also be added to the lights. A new crossing point will be created for cyclists and pedestrians. The project will also introduce a fully conflict-free traffic light system.
Additional roadworks are planned across other port areas. In Antwerp, Scheldelaan and Noorderlaan will be renovated in 2026 and 2027. In Zeebrugge, the N34 and N34a will be updated, including improvements to the tram crossing.
In Genk, major roads such as Bilzerweg (N730), Europalaan (N75), and Oosterring (N750) will undergo renovation. In Ghent, New Orleansstraat is scheduled for repairs, while AWN and rail network manager Infrabel are studying a smoother east-west connection of the R4 at Vliegtuiglaan and Afrikalaan to improve port access.
The Flemish government has a long history of investing in transport and port infrastructure for the opportunities it provides for the region’s economy. In 2018, the authorities commenced work on the Flanders Mobility Plan to make the roads safer and improve access for freight to the large ports.
From 2019 until 2021, the Roads and Traffic Agency executed projects that strengthened important freight routes in Antwerp and Zeebrugge. In 2022, the government undertook a detailed study in Ghent and Genk, reviewing road conditions and planning out long-term renovations.
