City officials say ‘no’ to Tour & Taxis plans to improve car access

City officials have rejected a building request that they say would have resulted in better access to Tour &Taxis for drivers but less space for pedestrians and cyclists.

Extensa, the real estate developer behind the new neighbourhood being built around Tour & Taxis, had submitted a building request to tear down 8 metres from the long wall lining the Brussels event venue and office complex on Avenue du Port. The freed-up space would have allowed for the creation of an extra lane for incoming and outgoing motor traffic.

But urban development alderwoman Ans Persoons turned down Extensa’s request, as did the city’s urban development advisory committee, which is composed of several government services. “The main entrance should remain preserved for cyclists and pedestrians,” Persoons told Bruzz.

“We believe that we should create an axe for pedestrians and cyclists. This is perfectly possible because the parking spots can also be accessed via another entrance,” she added. “This would make it possible to create a connection for the soft mobility between the Tour & Taxis park and the new park being developed along the canal.”

Extensa’s urban redevelopment project will see a new and greener neighbourhood being built around Tour & Taxis that will also include room for businesses, companies and accommodation.

Written by Linda A. Thompson

Photo courtesy Extensa