Dendermonde (Brussels Morning Newspaper) -Useful traffic updates suggest that Dendermonde faces major traffic disturbances due to the unanticipated works at the Mechelse Poort intersection, which started yesterday. The preliminary work carried out by the contractor on the Noordlaan required the elimination of two out of the four available lanes.
The Mechelse Poort intersection in Dendermonde experienced abrupt roadwork that caused major traffic congestion between yesterday and today. The preparatory contractor projects on the Noordlaan section forced the closure of two out of four lanes and generated persistent delays for drivers. The situation worsened because of limited signs and defective traffic light settings until today when adjustments were made for better flow.
The Noordlaan became congested yesterday morning, with motorists needing to wait two hours during their commute from Appels and Oudegem to reach the intersection. Two control lanes became inaccessible when a construction contractor started digging an opening to support roadway preparations at the Noordlaan exit point. The work site excavation continues to support the construction of permanent foundations for a crane tower.
Local police officer Patrick Feys revealed there was no proper communication between the police force and both Roads and Traffic Agency and contractor personnel during the interview.
“We offer our apologies for the inconvenience yesterday, but we are keeping a close eye on things with our partners.”
Signage has since been improved, and traffic lights have been adjusted to mitigate further disruptions.
The police also admit that the signage around the works was not optimally indicated.
“But that has now been corrected,”
Says Feys.
“Together with the various partners, we have placed the signage closer to the intersection and we hope that everyone drives through to the works and only merges at the end.”
“Yesterday was also extra busy because of the weekly market day, so we expect it to be quieter the rest of the week. The contractor is also trying to pour the base on Thursday instead of Friday. From then on, a total of 3 lanes should be available.”
This redevelopment project is working towards uniting three regional roads while it completes its developments at the Mechelse Poort intersection. The project involves building three pedestrian and cyclist tunnels together with a cycle bridge and rainwater storage facilities. The first phase involving a tunnel beneath Noordlaan has reached completion before the second phase starts on March 12. The second phase targets both the east part of Scheldebrug along with the western area of Leopoldlaan. The complete project will finish its execution in the summer of 2026.
What is the historical significance of the Mechelse Poort Intersection?
The Mechelse Poort intersection in Dendermonde serves as a vital traffic junction which binds regional roads to allow transportation between Appels and Oudegem as well as other adjacent districts. The intersection experienced previous difficulties because it had to handle rising traffic numbers with old infrastructure before a redevelopment project became necessary.
This 2026 project will reconstruct the intersection while incorporating three sustainable elements, including pedestrian tunnels beside a cycle bridge and a rainwater buffer basin. The redevelopment project works in combination with Dendermonde’s general push for better mobility and safety measures in this heritage-rich and strategically positioned city beside the Scheldt River. The city demonstrates its dedication to blending historical values with contemporary urban development through the intersection transformation.
