Ypres (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Starting March next year, Ypres will create a city‑wide cycling zone. €60.97 million is planned over 6 years, including a new pool (opening 1 July 2027), St. Peter’s social centre, Vlamertinge redevelopment, Grote Markt closure, and Riselpoort roundabout upgrade, led by Mayor Katrien Desomer.
As VRT News reported, starting in March next year, the centre of Ypres will turn into one large cycling zone. The decision is part of a 6-year plan in which Ypres will invest €60.97 million in public projects and infrastructure upgrades. A major share of this budget goes to the new municipal swimming pool. The project has been approved, and the facility is planned to open on 1 July 2027.
What changes are coming to Ypres city centre and traffic management?Alongside the pool investment, Ypres will also start work on several other developments. One project involves turning St. Peter’s Church into a social centre. Another key plan focuses on the redevelopment of the Vlamertinge thoroughfare.
A road closure on the Grote Markt in Ypres has become a major issue in the city. The plan is still moving forward and is drawing wide attention from residents and traders. Many people want clarity on how traffic will be guided once the closure takes effect. The local council says the change is meant to improve safety and reduce pressure in the centre.
“We want to evolve into a traffic-calmed city centre,”
says Mayor Katrien Desomer (CD&V).
“Local traffic will remain welcome, but through traffic will no longer be. That’s why, eventually, there will indeed be a closure on the Grote Markt.”
“But before we implement that cut, we first want to realise 10 other points for the city centre. The first of these is the introduction of a bicycle zone. Starting March 1st, it will cover the entire city centre.”
Officials mentioned that the roundabout at Riselpoort is also set for change because accidents happen there often. That junction is managed by the Roads and Traffic Agency, not by the city. An environmental permit for the site has now been submitted. Councillor Desomer says the permit is an important step and that work could start soon if no delays follow.
Ypres has been dealing with traffic and safety issues in its city centre for several years. In October 2024, a young cyclist died in an accident at the Riselpoort roundabout, raising concerns about safety at the busy junction. In early 2025, the city started upgrading key cycling routes, including the Meenseweg.
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