Ghent Bridge Closed for Five Days for Chimney Demolition

The Zuivelbrug bridge in Ghent, Belgium, has been completely closed to traffic for five days as authorities undertake urgent demolition work on a nearby unstable chimney. The closure, which began recently, affects pedestrians, cyclists, and boat traffic on the Leie river.

The square chimney, a historical structure dating back to 1851, was once part of the Molens Goethals steam mill, where grain was processed into flour. The mill ceased operations in November 2008, and the building now houses a coffee and cake shop. Its proximity to the Zuivelbrug, which connects the Vrijdagmarkt to the Patershol area, necessitated the immediate closure for public safety.

Ghent Mayor Mathias De Clercq ordered the immediate demolition, stating, "A chimney several meters high is unstable. In the interest of public safety, I have immediately ordered the chimney to be demolished. The contractor will start immediately." The demolition is being carried out using a crane.

The closure impacts the Zuivelbrugstraat, which links the Kraanlei and Patershol with the Vrijdagmarkt. The bridge and the adjacent section of the Leie river will remain inaccessible until the demolition work is completed, expected by Tuesday.

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A chimney several meters high is unstable. In the interest of public safety, I have immediately ordered the chimney to be demolished. The contractor will start immediately.