New design for Schuman roundabout gets green light

Brussels-City has approved a plan proposed by the region for an urban renewal project that will transform the look and feel of Rond-Point Schuman. The landmark spot in the European Quarter will be resurfaced and traffic limited to one side.

The idea is to create a more pedestrian-friendly public space out of Schuman, currently dominated by traffic. The dull square in the centre will be resurfaced and extended into the street, closing it off to motorised vehicles – except for public transport and taxis, which will still be allowed to drive around the entire street.  

A number of public meetings saw many residents of the area concerned about the effect on traffic in surrounding streets and municipalities. The city council of Etterbeek in fact voted against the project – the only party involved in discussions that did so.

More green space

Brussels-City, however, has told the region to carry out a thorough investigation into the effect on traffic and offer solutions. It wants to see a traffic impact study, said city councillor Ans Persoons (Change.Brussels). “We have asked the consultation committee to make this study available to us and be very transparent about it,” she told Bruzz.

That’s one of the conditions Brussels-City is asking be met before the region approves a building permit. More green space is another.

Because of the complexity of tunnels and the metro station underneath the roundabout, the new plan imagines mostly stone surfacing. Brussels-City wants the plans to be reconsidered to incorporate more green space.

The region will now consider these options and make a decision about whether a building permit can be issued.

Image ©Cobe/Brut