2024-01-02 08:22:00
While work on tram 10 in Neder-Over-Heembeek is in full swing and should be completed this fall, the Tour&Taxis tram is only in its embryonic stage. We are far from the first sod. No permit yet. The inauguration date mentioned is now 2029. The government agreement, however, provided for the creation “by 2024, of new tram lines to Neder-Over-Hembeek and Tour&Taxis”.
We learn from a good source that, despite these still distant deadlines and these delays, a symbolic step has just been reached: a number has been found. This line which will connect Belgica to Gare du Nord will carry the number 15, Stib confirms to our colleagues at DH. A number which does not currently exist on the network, but which was once assigned.
Former tram 15 in Brussels ©Tram Museum
At the end of 2023, the calendar has barely changed compared to spring. The Stib hopes to submit a permit for 2024. If the procedure goes smoothly, the permit might be granted in 2025 and the work then launched in 2026. So much for the “on paper” deadlines, but that’s without the complications and possible appeals.
The arrival of the Tour&Taxis tram puts rue Picard in turmoil: “The significant elimination of parking will jeopardize the tranquility of the neighborhood”
A project… in three parts
As a reminder, this tram line would leave Belgica, take rue Picard, then the Suzan Daniel footbridge and finally boulevard Bolivar to reach Gare du Nord. Secondly, an extension is planned to the Central station via Boulevard Saint-Lazare and Boulevard Pachéco. An extension planned for 2032.
More generally, this line is intended to be linked to another major project of the Stib: the tramification of bus 95. From the Central station, this new tram would join – either via Place des Palais, or via the rue de la Loi – Trône, then Luxembourg station before returning to avenue de la Couronne towards Watermael-Boitsfort.
As for the terminus of this 95 tram, it is the subject of discussions, under pressure from local authorities insisting on a connection to Place Wiener.
Route scenarios for the future tram 95 ©IPM Graphics
1704246707
#Brussels #symbolic #step #longawaited #future #TourTaxis #tram
