New trams for Antwerp, Ghent and the Belgian coast

Soon locals and visitors alike will experience improved public transport on the Belgian coast, as well as in Flanders’ two largest cities – Ghent and Antwerp. The Flemish government has announced a public tender for the renovation of De Lijn trams in these three areas as well as  new trams. Flemish minister of mobility, Hilde Crevits, announced that Flanders is prepared to invest €320 million in the project.

The new vehicles being considered are low-floor trams, which allow travellers to board without having to climb up steps. Also, the modernised vehicles will provide traveller information about routes and would announce stops via audio as well as a display screen.

The Belgian Coast

Forty-eight trams will be renovated along the Belgian coast and nine new trams will be added to improve service. A new tram line is also being considered for a possible extension to the inland town of Veurne.

Antwerp

Antwerp’s public transport Masterplan will see 66 new tram routes added. Some will replace the city’s remaining 155 small trams, while others will be used to further the tram grid development.

Ghent

The city of Ghent will receive 18 new trams. These trams will replace or help extend the city’s current network of 40 trams.

 Photo: Wikimedia commons