Experience

ANTWERP | Scheldt Quays between Sint-Michielstraat and Sint-Jansvliet to become event space

Posted by Timothy on

The City of Antwerp has approved the final design for the third and last phase of the redevelopment of the Scheldt Quays in the Sint-Andries and Zuid (South) area, marking a significant step in the long-running transformation of the riverfront. The plans cover the northernmost section of the zone, between Sint-Michielstraat and Sint-Jansvliet, and include a new event space, the continuation of a linear park, and the construction of an underground neighbourhood car park. 

If everything proceeds according to schedule, work on the parking facility is expected to begin in spring 2028, followed by the redesign of the public space above ground.

From surface parking to public riverfront space

The first two phases of the redevelopment in Sint-Andries and Zuid have already been completed. The newly approved design replaces the existing surface car park with an underground facility, freeing up space along the river for public use. The quay area directly adjacent to the Scheldt will be transformed into an 8,000-square-metre event zone with permeable surfacing, while the street side will see the extension of the linear park introduced in earlier phases. This will include a raised granite flood defence path, new walking routes and sloping green embankments.

Plans also include the planting of around 70 new trees, including species such as white poplar, alder, ginkgo and field maple, alongside a flower-rich grass meadow. A dog exercise zone of 380 square metres will be added. The street layout and four-metre-wide cycle path already introduced further south will be extended along Plantinkaai. Historic harbour railings and the existing espaliered lime trees will be preserved.

According to Alderman for Urban Development Patrick Janssens (Vooruit), the approval represents “an important final step” in the redevelopment of the Zuid and Sint-Andries section of the quays, creating “an attractive and high-quality piece of city for residents, with more space for greenery, events and meeting, while respecting the unique character of this historically important place.”

Underground parking and improved access

Beneath the site, a single-level underground neighbourhood car park will provide 260 spaces for cars, 13 for motorcycles and 55 bicycle spaces, along with a separate enclosed public bicycle parking facility for 205 bikes. Vehicle access will be via the junction at Sint-Jansvliet, with separate entry and exit lanes and adapted traffic light controls designed to minimise conflicts.

The wide pedestrian zone near the Sint-Annatunnel will be maintained, and a new crossing for cyclists will be added near Het Zand. Entrances to the underground facility for pedestrians and cyclists will be integrated into the raised dike structure, with three access points that also function as emergency exits. At the main entrance, part of the historic Napoleonic quay wall will be made visible and illuminated at night.

Alderman for Mobility Koen Kennis (N-VA)  said the project extends the renewed quays into the city centre while keeping it accessible: “By moving parking and a large bicycle facility underground, we return the quay to the people of Antwerp, while ensuring accessibility for cars and cyclists. The wide quay cycle path is the finishing touch.”

Part of long-term Scheldt quays masterplan

The works form part of the broader Scheldt Quays masterplan, launched in 2010 by the city, AG Vespa and De Vlaamse Waterweg nv, aimed at restoring the connection between the city and the river across nearly seven kilometres, from Droogdokkeneiland in the north to Blue Gate Antwerp in the south. The project is being implemented in phases and is expected to be completed during the next legislative period.

Earlier milestones include the opening of the Belvédère in the Droogdokkenpark and the first redeveloped quay section in Sint-Andries and Zuid in 2019, followed by the second phase in 2023 and a new park at Nieuw Zuid (New South) in 2024. Work is currently underway on other sections, including the area around Loodswezen and central northern and southern zones.

The third phase and its underground parking are being coordinated by AG Vespa together with Mobiliteit en Parkeren Antwerpen (MPA). The design for the public space was developed by PROAP and Sweco, while Sweco also designed the underground car park.

On the look of Antwerp

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