Gent - Ghent - Bridge Watersportbaan

The project for the cycle and pedestrian bridge over the Watersportbaan (water sports lake) is a major link in the completion of the main bicycle route and the ‘Westerringspoor’ green axis as foreseen in Ghent City Council’s Spatial Structure Plan and Mobility Plan.

The bicycle route is a link between the former railway station in Oostakker and Ghent’s St. Peter’s Station. It makes use of a large part of the former Westerringspoor. This cycle axis connects up large parts of the city and is a part of the supra-local functional Provincial cycling network. Large parts of this main cycling route have already been completed and this new bridge is one of the missing links.

3000 cyclists and many pedestrians will make use of this bridge every day, and it should have the allure of its metropolitan surroundings. The bridge increases the perspective effect of the view of the city and accentuates the boundary between the city and its green periphery. The setting of the site demands particular attention from the designers for the design and architecture of the bridge and its insertion into the surrounding landscape, considering the role the bridge will play in the future identity of the Watersportbaan and its surroundings.

On a local level, this bridge will be an important link and shortcut between clusters of sports and recreational facilities (incl. the Blaarmeersen) on both sides of the Watersportbaan. The bridge will also be a place to spend time and enjoy, with a view of the (urban) landscape and sports activities. Apart from this, the perspective along the surface of the water at both ends of the Watersportbaan must be preserved. It is desired that the space below the bridge and the bridge itself are as transparent as possible.

The bridge has a span of about 80 metres. It must join up with the main cycling route and the cycling and pedestrian amenities along the Noorderlaan and Zuiderlaan in a cycling-friendly way. The study and project area is sufficiently spacious for this. A strip of 100 metres is provided for in both directions on both banks, measured as from the axis of the bridge.

Account will have to be taken of the preconditions related to the sports activities (such as rowing competitions) on the Watersportbaan.

The design team will be assisted by a multidisciplinary team with representatives from various council departments and a representative from the Province of East Flanders.

Fees:

Fee for design of bridge: 10%

Fee for layout of grounds: 5%