The 3.2 km long N721 between Opitterkiezel and Maaseikerbaan in Bree, Belgium, is heavily outdated and therefore underwent a major overhaul: a new road surface, separate sewerage system and new cycle path and footpaths. And all that in just one year.
The sewerage consists of separate pipes for waste water and rainwater. Permeable porous concrete pipes ensure that some rainwater infiltrates into the subsoil. The pipes are encased with drainage sand to guarantee extra infiltration capacity.
The old culvert of the nearby Horsgaterbeek was replaced as a precaution. This will extend the life of the stream and the adjacent new road for at least five years.
A new buffer basin was constructed approximately 800 metres from the N721. During heavy rainfall, it serves as a reservoir to collect excess rainwater and prevent flooding. The canals to the basin are reinforced with chestnut wood.
Several of the local residents' front gardens were subject to compulsory purchase orders to enable construction of the cycle path and footpath. This involved removing various garden walls, gates and mailboxes. The personal contact with the residents ensured that this is properly managed.
A one-way systemin the direction of Opitter and an efficient diversion in the opposite direction were set up until the end of the works. Construction of temporary paths guaranteed that the businesses in the area remained continuously accessible.
Project name
Opitterkiezel Bree
Category
Road works
Contract type
Build
Location
Bree, Belgium
Stakeholder(s)
BESIX Infra
Client
Municipality of Bree
Building Period
2014 - 2015
Total value
€ 3.2 million
