Revamped Heldenplein in Vilvoorde officially opened
The redesigned Heldenplein in Vilvoorde was officially opened on Wednesday. The design focuses on greening the square and was developed by landscape architect Bas Smets.
The renovation features safe cycle connections, smart traffic lights, better public transport facilities and more greenery. The Flemish government invested 12 million euros in the project, and an additional 1 million came from the city of Vilvoorde, transforming a car park that was plagued by traffic problems into a green neighbourhood.
Architect Smets is internationally recognised for his innovative designs and sustainable vision. His credits include the Parc des Ateliers in Arles and the design for the public space around Notre-Dame in Paris. For Heldenplein, he says he placed particular emphasis on creating accessible green spaces in urban environments.
The square will also be a key stop for De Lijn's Ringtrambus, which carries passengers along the northern edge of Brussels, from UZ Brussel university hospital in Jette to Brussels Airport in Zaventem. The final touches are still being made to the stop, but it should be operational by the beginning of the summer.
During the reopening, the Boerenpaard (Farm Horse) statue by sculptor Rik Poot was also put back in place. The statue had stood on Heldenplein since 2002 and symbolises the region's rich farming tradition.
#FlandersNewsService | Heldenplein in Vilvoorde © PHOTO DE WERKVENNOOTSCHAP
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