Schuman redevelopment works have begun

Work on the Schuman roundabout has begun this week, according to Beliris, the cooperation body between the federal government and the Brussels-Capital Region for construction, renovation and heritage restoration projects in the capital.

“It will be a safe multimodal space, a real city square that promotes active mobility,” Beliris said in an announcement.

The phased works are expected to take about two years, starting with the demolition of the centre of the roundabout, which began yesterday and will run until 22 December.

During this first phase, traffic will be restricted to two lanes in Avenue de de Cortenbergh and in the northern part of the roundabout (Rue Archimède, on the Avenue de de Cortenbergh side), and to one lane in the southern part of the roundabout (Rue Froissart and Avenue d'Auderghem).

No diversions will be set up for this first phase, so car traffic will remain possible between Avenue de de Cortenbergh and Rue de la Loi. Public transport will also continue to run smoothly.

A symbolic ceremony in the presence of some politicians will take place on Wednesday to celebrate the start of the works.

The aim of the project is to make the intersection “breathe,” Beliris said.

“The overall philosophy of the project is to create a central square where traffic is carried around in concentric circles. The circles extend across the square to accentuate its central position and encourage visitors to meet in the centre.

"The centre of the square is covered by a modern, metal canopy with a green roof under which events can take place."

The roundabout will become a pedestrian zone with greenery and Danish architectural firms COBE and BRUT are responsible for the design.