Ypres (Brussels Morning Newspaper): Ypres will relocate a lime tree at Augustinenstraat and Sportstraat for a new bike path, preserving its charm and supporting sustainability.
The lime tree on the corner of Augustinenstraat and Sportstraat in Ypres, near the VTI campus, will be moved to make way for a new bike-friendly redesign of the intersection. The city will create a new bicycle path and modify the intersection to improve safety and accessibility for cyclists. The tree, however, is currently positioned in a spot that does not align with these plans since the redesigned intersection will occupy the exact spot where the tree stands. This is part of an initiative to improve sustainable and safe mobility throughout the city.
Is Ypres preserving its lime tree while enhancing bike paths?
The city has decided not to cut down the lime tree as it will be moved to a more suitable location. According to Sien Callewaert, a representative of the green service, the tree was already in an odd spot at the intersection. So its relocation also allows for preserving the tree. This decision reflects a careful balance between enhancing urban infrastructure and protecting the environment. By ensuring the tree is not lost but rather given a new place to grow, the city shows its commitment to sustainability while also supporting cycling initiatives.
What are Margot Derycke’s thoughts on relocating the lime tree?
Margot Derycke, a former presenter at Radio in West Flanders, has been keeping an eye on the changes at the intersection by her home on Sportstraat. As part of a bike path improvement project, a section of the road will be cut away, taking with it the lime tree standing there.
I was scared they were going to chop it up,
Margot said.
She described the intersection as a bit odd but noted that the tree gave it a special charm, making it more pleasant for her and her neighbors.
The lime tree in the neighborhood is special to many people because it looks beautiful in every season. Margot, who lives nearby, talked abThijs Pattynout how the tree changes colors throughout the year, making everyone happy. She feels it will be hard to see the tree go but is glad it will be moved instead of cut down. The city cares about nature while also making changes to the area. Margot hopes the tree will do well in its new spot, as it has always been a favorite part of the community. Its move is a big change for the corner, but many are hopeful it will keep growing.
