The City of Antwerp wants 83% of the streets between the Scheldekaaien (Scheldt Quays), the Oudeleeuwenrui, the Leien (the Boulevards) and the Kronenburgstraat to be car-free or almost car-free. Autovrij and autoluw in Dutch.

Antwerp’s historic, 16th century, centre contains 73 (!) km of streets. 13% is marked as residential yard, 28% car-free. By 2024 this should be 16% and 29%. After 2024 this should b together 83%.

Yardstick

The keyword is yard. A residential yard (woonerf) is an almost car-free zone where people reside and motor vehicles are only occasional guests. A yard (erf) also allows small businesses such as bars and restaurants.

Only motor vehicles of residents will be allowed to park. There will be some exceptions: for caregivers, handymen and such professions.

We’ll have to wait and see what it will be in reality.