Glabbeek (Eurotoday) – The municipality of Glabbeek is introducing tougher regulations to prevent utility companies from digging up roads that have recently been repaired. Mayor Peter Reekmans emphasizes that collaboration among companies is key to saving money, preserving infrastructure, and minimizing inconvenience for residents.
To address ongoing disruptions, Glabbeek is pushing for coordinated planning so that all necessary underground works—such as gas, electricity, water, and telecom—can be carried out during roadworks. Most companies have agreed to join this initiative, recognizing the cost savings and efficiency of working together rather than scheduling separate digging operations.
Currently, many municipalities follow a standard rule that prohibits road excavation for five years after resurfacing. However, Glabbeek is considering extending this ban to nearly 10 years. The proposal is set to be discussed in an upcoming municipal council meeting.
Will Stricter Rules Put an End to Constant Road Disruptions?
Glabbeek wants to ensure that roads, sidewalks, and cycling paths aren’t repeatedly damaged for minor repairs like cable upgrades. Mayor Reekmans explains that digging should only be allowed when absolutely necessary and always as part of a coordinated effort.
According to city officials, the recurring issue arises when utility providers carry out their work shortly after road repairs, leading to wasted public funds and repeated construction. In 2018, Glabbeek implemented a rule requiring all companies working on underground infrastructure to coordinate their efforts during any planned road restoration.
Despite this, some companies bypassed the plan and returned shortly after repairs to request permission for more digging, leading to frustration among local authorities. In response, the municipality strengthened the rules in 2023 and plans to make them even stricter by 2025.
Under the upcoming regulations, utility providers will be obligated to work together during roadworks. Non-compliance could result in penalties. The town aims to ensure that public expenditure on infrastructure is efficiently used and that roads are only disturbed when absolutely essential.
“Our strategy is simple,” said Mayor Reekmans. “When we dig up our streets for new sewers, upgraded road surfaces, sidewalks, and bike paths, all utility companies will be invited well in advance to be part of the process. That way, all the necessary conduits, cable extensions, or system upgrades can be done at once. It prevents the need to dig up a brand-new street again just to install a utility line.”
Glabbeek’s approach reflects a growing trend among municipalities to demand better coordination from utility firms, putting community interest and sustainability first.
Eurotoday is a daily online newspaper based in Belgium. It provides independent coverage of international and European affairs, focusing on EU policy, member state developments, and global events from a European perspective.
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