Search form

menu menu
  • Daily & Weekly newsletters
  • Buy & download The Bulletin
  • Comment on our articles

Brabant mayors express shock at airport expansion plans

16:35 22/01/2018

The mayors of Steenokkerzeel and Kortenberg in Flemish Brabant have expressed anger at one of the options for the expansion of Brussels Airport. The option would see more than 20 houses in their municipalities demolished and the erection of an 18-metre-high wall.

The airport announced about a year ago that it planned to expand and increase passenger numbers by some 40% by 2040. Several options have since been drawn up by the airport and released today.

“I think that anyone who is listening to the radio or reads the paper today and sees these plans is going to fall off their chair because the impact is enormous,” Kurt Ryon (N-VA), mayor of Steenokkerzeel, told Het Nieuwsblad.

Central to all the options is runway 25L. In one scenario, it would become 900 metres longer, add a taxiway and require a four-kilometre long wall. This would infiltrate the boundaries of both the municipalities, requiring at least 22 houses to be demolished.

‘A major blow’

“This would be a major blow to Steenokkerzeel,” said Ryon. “Demolishing many homes and a wall 18 metres high through the town will have a terrible impact and the question will be if our town will remain livable for the residents.”

Brussels Airport is quick to point out that no option has been chosen and that they could not choose an option without planning permission from the governments involved. There is an information evening planning this Wednesday for residents of the area.

“Now that residents know the plans, Wednesday is going to be stressful,” said Ryon. “People are going to be really frustrated and in no way will accept these plans.”

Written by Lisa Bradshaw

Comments

Henry Muthan

Well that is something new...hope it will not infringe on the locals.

HenryMuthan
Insurance salvage and transport

Feb 13, 2018 13:12
Ryankendall

The notable expansion took place with little hitch professional tow truck company played a major role in the transition.

Nov 26, 2018 06:14
richmonddeckpros

Great article! I find it really interesting. deck contractor Richmond VA

Jul 20, 2019 11:54