In Deurne-Zuid, eleven more trees are being felled for planned works on tram line 9. The action is causing unrest, especially as the PVDA fears this is a prelude to the construction of De Lijn's controversial tram turning loop. A year ago, similar works already caused an uproar when dozens of trees in the Groenenhoek were cut down.
What is happening
Works will soon resume in Deurne-Zuid, which already led to major protests and the felling of many trees last year. Although the re-laying of tram 9 tracks and sewers is now due, the controversial tram turning loop of De Lijn will not be constructed for the time being, pending a court decision. Despite this official announcement, eleven trees must make way for the new infrastructure. Opposition party PVDA does not believe these works are unrelated to the turning loop and took action on Wednesday afternoon to express their dissatisfaction. They speak of 'fairground tricks' to circumvent residents and the court.
Impact on greenery in Deurne
This new felling of eleven trees once again contributes to the reduction of greenery in Deurne. Residents are concerned about the environment and the green lungs of their neighbourhood. De Lijn emphasizes that the felling is necessary for the modernization of public transport and the construction of a more efficient sewage system, but this argument does not convince the PVDA and critical residents.
Background
The discussion about the tram turning loop and the associated tree felling has been ongoing in Deurne for some time. Residents and the PVDA oppose the plans, fearing the impact on the streetscape, the environment, and the quality of life. De Lijn, the Flemish public transport company, defends the project as essential for efficient service of tram line 9. The legal procedure regarding the turning loop is still ongoing, which makes the current situation extra complex. The fact that trees are being felled again is seen by opponents as an attempt to create facts before a definitive judgment has been rendered.
What this means for Belgium
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The situation in Deurne-Zuid is representative of the tensions that arise elsewhere in Belgium between infrastructure projects and environmental preservation. Governments and public transport companies, such as De Lijn, are often faced with the challenge of realizing modern facilities while also taking into account ecological considerations and the objections of local communities. The opposition from parties such as the PVDA demonstrates that sustainability and citizen participation are becoming increasingly important in Belgian politics and urban planning. This incident in Deurne could set a precedent for future projects where greenery must make way for infrastructure.
The primary source for this information is HLN Antwerpen.