Harelbeke Demands Increased Safety on Leie River Towpath After Fatal Drowning

Harelbeke is pressing De Vlaamse Waterweg, the Flemish waterway authority, to implement additional safety measures along the towpath bordering the Leie river. This call comes after two alarming incidents in quick succession: a man's bicycle plunge into the river last Friday, from which he was rescued, and the drowning of a 75-year-old man on Sunday evening.

The towpath, increasingly popular with cyclists, walkers, and runners, has sections that are particularly narrow and hazardous. One such critical area is along the Oude Leiearm, where the lack of space and proximity to the water poses a significant risk. The city argues that physical barriers, similar to those already installed on other sections, are necessary to prevent further tragedies.

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The discussion about safety along the Leie banks is not new. As early as 2020, the N-VA faction asked for life buoys to be provided in crucial places.

Opposition councilor Evelyne Callens (N-VA) and Mayor Michaël Vannieuwenhuyze (Team Harelbeke) are leading the push for a safety review. Callens noted that requests for safety equipment like life buoys and railings were made years ago, but De Vlaamse Waterweg initially declined. She questioned the visibility and accessibility of existing rescue ladders in emergencies.

Mayor Vannieuwenhuyze confirmed receiving numerous citizen concerns about safety along the riverbanks. He stated that the city has repeatedly requested fencing from De Vlaamse Waterweg, emphasizing their openness to further evaluation and site visits. The city wants to ensure that the safety measures implemented on some stretches are extended to other high-risk areas.

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The first answer was that it is not possible to provide fencing everywhere. But we have insisted again and are still awaiting an answer. We are open to further evaluation and would like them to come and look here.