Wijnegem pedestrian and cycle bridge officially opened

Jochem Verbeek, project architect at ZJA Architects & Engineers: “With the opening of the pedestrian and cycle bridge, the new bridge ensemble in Wijnegem—architecturally designed by ZJA Architects & Engineers—is complete. It consists of a restrained, robust arch bridge for motorised traffic and an elegant, flowing cable-stayed bridge for pedestrians and cyclists. Both are executed in crisp white steel, creating a distinctive and stylish ensemble. We are proud of the final result!”

A comfortable crossing with generous views

The newly opened 175-metre-long pedestrian and cycle bridge rests elegantly on one side of an extension of the lock complex and is carefully integrated into its surroundings. Following a long, largely freestanding approach ramp on V-shaped columns, the sharply profiled bridge leads into an elegant crossing supported by a white, asymmetrical cable-stayed structure. The abutment has deliberately been positioned at a distance from the canal, allowing for future expansion of the lock complex.

With transparent railings, wide paths, comfortable stairways and an elevated bridge girder separating the cycle path from the footpath, the bridge offers not only safety and ease of use, but also special seating areas overlooking the water, locks and surrounding landscape. This makes the bridge more than a functional route: it is a graceful place to pause and enjoy the view, as well as a recognisable new element in the area.

Two new bridges within a wider project

The old concrete “banana bridge” in Wijnegem has been replaced by two new bridges, forming part of De Vlaamse Waterweg’s wider project to strengthen the Albert Canal as a key transport corridor. With the removal of the old, heavy concrete bridge, the designers also seized the opportunity to transform the space beneath it—from a dark underworld into a lighter, greener and more open environment. The quay works connecting the bridges were also included in the design. The Theunis Bridge and the pedestrian and cycle bridge in Tessenderlo, both previously designed by ZJA, are also part of this wider project. Would you like to know more about the design of the two new bridges in Wijnegem? Read more on our website.

Project details

Architect: ZJA | Architects & Engineers
Client: De Vlaamse Waterweg nv
ZJA commissioning party: THV Arcadis–Sweco
Cycle bridge contractor: TM Artes Roegiers – Aelterman BV
Motor traffic bridge contractor: TM HYE NV – Hens nv

Photography:
©ZJA Architects & Engineers
©De Vlaamse Waterweg nv