120-year-old bridge over Tour & Taxis closed for a year

The renovation of the 120-year-old Jubilee Bridge between the Brussels neighbourhoods of Laeken and Molenbeek will enter a new phase this week, resulting in its closure to vehicle traffic for a year.

The cast-iron girder bridge which spans Tour & Taxis dates back to 1904. But due to its deteriorating state, the bridge has for some years now only been authorised for road traffic in one direction.

An extensive renovation was approved in May this year, aimed at preserving the structure while making the bridge safer and more accessible for cyclists and pedestrians.

After the initial preparatory works, the bridge will now be inaccessible to car traffic for a year, according to outgoing mobility minister Elke Van den Brandt (Groen).

Traffic will be diverted via Avenue du Port, where road markings have been installed for buses.

The works will cost an estimated €8.9 million and will be carried out by Belgian railway company SNCB.

Once the project is completed, the Jubilee Bridge will be handed over to the Brussels Capital Region, which will manage it as its owner.