The small businesses’ organisation UNIZO is pressing for a ‘Smart to Brussels’ campaign. The organisation says a campaign should be launched to inform people about the various ways to reach Brussels when major road works are taking place. The planned works on Vilvoorde Viaduct and the Greater Brussels orbital ring road, could encourage people to stay away from the Flemish and Belgian capital. That is not good for traders and businesses in Brussels and Flemish Brabant UNIZO argues.
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‘Smart to Brussels’: “Brussels must remain accessible during major works”
Colin Clapson
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In the coming years, work is being carried out on one of the country's busiest traffic axes: Vilvoorde Viaduct needs to be renovated and in 2025 the renovation of the Greater Brussels orbital will start. UNIZO in Flemish Brabant and Brussels wants to prevent the works from having an economic impact on retailers and businesses in and around the capital.
"We don't want people to get the impression that Brussels and the Rand (i.e. the Flemish borderlands around Brussels) are no longer accessible. That's why we are seeking an information campaign that makes it clear which means of transport are the best way to reach Brussels," says Elke Tielemans, director UNIZO in Flemish Brabant and Brussels.
Accessibility is also important for businesses around Brussels, says Tielemans. "You have the proximity of the airport, and also the many companies based around the capital. Traffic jams can cause economic damage. People should know what is the best time to use the Brussels orbital to avoid congestion, and also what alternative means of transport are available."
Tielemans advocates a strong and broad media campaign. "Actually, this should have already been in place. But when it comes to the Brussels ring road, several regions and mobility partners are involved, so it will be a challenge to come up quickly with an information campaign involving the various parties."