SNCB gets planning permission to revamp Schaerbeek station

Belgian rail operator SNCB has been given the go-ahead to renovate the platforms at Schaerbeek station.

The start time and budget for the works, made to improve passenger accessibility and increase passenger numbers at the station, have not yet been determined.

The platforms will be reconstructed in collaboration with rail network manager Infrabel to make it easier to get on and off the trains.

There will be lifts for people with reduced mobility. In addition, the station’s lighting and its northern underpass will be refurbished and modernised.

Currently, the station sees an average of 18,000 passengers per week. By 2030, that number is expected to increase to 25,000.

A number of changes, as yet not finalised, are also planned on neighbouring Avenue Huart Hamoir, which starts from the historic station. These include marked cycle paths in both directions and safer pedestrian crossings.

The avenue’s car lanes will also be narrowed to limit speed.

The playground on the avenue will also be refurbished, to become “a real recreational space”, with, among other things, new benches and lighting. And to combat illegal parking, the municipality will install new bollards.

The plans further focus on increasing the avenue’s green areas, plants and bushes. This is important for the local wildlife. At least 70% of the plants are attractive to animals, notably those that produce nectar for the bees or berries for birds.

Schaerbeek’s goal to modernise the avenue will be done with respect for its heritage, its permit application makes clear.

The public consultation on the reconstruction will run until 24 January.