New-look Rue Neuve officially inaugurated

After two years of renovation and redevelopment, Rue Neuve – the best known and busiest pedestrian street in Belgium - was officially reopened at the weekend.

The inauguration ceremony to reopen the famous commercial thoroughfare was conducted by Brussels mayor Philippe Close and Karine Lalieux, the new minister for Beliris, the federal department for construction and renovation.

“We are particularly happy with the renovation work done by the city and Beliris,” Close said. “This renovation, like the work on the pedestrian zone, is part of a vast redevelopment project to make the city centre more attractive for both visitors and residents.”

Rue Neuve, along with its adjoining side streets, has undergone a major facelift which sees new, stronger blue-grey paving stones replacing the previous concrete tiles and the installation of quieter wooded areas for pedestrians to enjoy at their leisure.

In addition, new lighting will spotlight the surrounding buildings, creating a pleasant environment that the city hopes will encourage residents and visitors alike to spend more time in the area enjoying the atmosphere.

The Saint-Michel, Colombier, Finistère, Choux, Pont Neuf, Malines and Blanchisserie streets, which are off Rue Neuve, have also been redeveloped in a bid to attract stores, hotels and restaurants into the side streets, taking some of the burden away from the main street.

The completion of work on the street was welcomed by the Shopera association, formed by the Comeos, BECI and UCM business organisations.

“Every day, more than 40,000 people crowd down Rue Neuve," said Quentin Huet of the Shopera Traders Association. "We are particularly excited about this new launch."

Photo: Thierry Roge/Belga