Antwerp Tram Network Struggles Under Years of Neglected Maintenance

Antwerp's tram system is buckling under the weight of long-delayed maintenance, forcing route shortenings and creating operational headaches. While the return of tram line 11 after a three-year absence offers some relief, it immediately encountered difficulties.

The city opted for a bicycle path in key streets during the renovation of the city loop, which means trams now share mixed traffic. This leads to significant time lost at traffic lights, particularly on Lange Nieuwstraat. The situation is compounded at the Groenenhoek terminus in Berchem, where trams 4 and A9 now also end their routes due to urgent track work elsewhere. The loop lacks adequate space for multiple trams, causing blockages and frustration for cyclists.

De Lijn is seeking solutions and encouraging drivers to speed up their maneuvers at the terminus, but even a short break for a sanitary stop can cause delays. These ongoing issues may have influenced a compromise between coalition partners N-VA and Vooruit regarding a new tram loop and tree felling in Deurne-Zuid. A decision from the Council for Permit Disputes is expected on June 24, while current track work is being expedited to potentially restore tram 9 service by the end of next year.