Three new paths to connect canal cycle route

Cycling or walking along the Brussels canal will be made easier and safer, with the construction of three new paths underneath busy road bridges.

The Brussels government has hired an architectural firm to design and build new pathways at Van Praet, Jules De Trooz and Sainctelette.

At each bridge, the quayside will be lowered to make it possible for bikes and pedestrians to pass underneath, instead of having to cross the road.

It will mean a smoother and safer ride along the canal between Docks Bruxsel shopping centre and the centre of town.

The project will cost €5 million, a third of which is financed by the European Regional Development Fund.

"These connections along the canal are a good example of what we have planned for the Brussels of tomorrow," said Pascal Smet, the Brussels minister for town planning.

Planning permission has also been granted to redevelop the Avenue du Port, between Jules De Trooz and Sainctelette, including the construction of a new two-way cycle path.