Ghent (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – The Graffitistraatje (Werregarenstraatje) in Ghent is now a pedestrian-only street. Senator Stephanie D’Hose and Alderman Joris Vandenbroucke supported this change to prevent accidents between walkers and cyclists.
The Graffitistraatje, also called Werregarenstraatje, in Ghent is getting more visitors yearly. Authorities mentioned that people love to see the changing graffiti and street art. This narrow alley is now a popular spot on guided tours and gets crowded during the day. They mentioned that the increase in pedestrians has raised safety issues because cyclists also ride there.
Many visitors do not expect bikes to come through, which can cause problems. Senator Stephanie D’Hose has spoken about this issue. She wants the city to stop cycling in the Graffitistraatje to keep people safe. She thinks the space is too small and busy for both walkers and cyclists, and clear rules are needed to prevent accidents.
Is Graffitistraatje in Ghent now a bicycle-free zone?
The city of Ghent has decided to make the Graffitistraatje a pedestrian-only street. Alderman Joris Vandenbroucke announced this change. Now, cyclists will not be allowed to ride there. There are other bike paths nearby for them to use. They want visitors to enjoy the street art without worrying about bikes.
The city of Ghent is responding to that proposal.
The street is on the route of all kinds of guided tours, and it is often impossible to get through by bike during the day. Visitors do not expect cyclists there either. There is an alternative route. That is why we are creating clarity: the Graffitstraatje will become a pedestrian street.
According to authorities, the Graffitistraatje in Ghent is famous for its colourful graffiti. Since the 1990s, artists have used this area to display their work. It has become a popular place for tours and visitors.
Recently, a visitor centre opened to help tourists, and a well-known chocolate shop has opened in this area. However, more people visiting has created problems with traffic, especially between walkers and cyclists on the narrow street.
The city council of Ghent is taking steps to handle traffic problems in busy areas. They just announced plans to make a street near the Van Eyck swimming pool for walkers only. This area has a lot of pedestrian traffic, just like the Graffitistraatje.
Officials think there could be issues between walkers and cyclists if they don’t act. They mentioned that the city cares about keeping people safe where many walk. The council wants to ensure different types of transport can work together well. They also aim to keep cultural and historical sites safe and enjoyable.
