Lokeren opens new Durme river boardwalk amid cost concerns

Lokeren has officially opened a new wooden boardwalk spanning the Durme river, a project designed to enhance the city's connection with its waterway. The boardwalk links the Grote Kaai parking lot to the central Market square, marking the completion of final touches, including LED lighting.

The initiative aims to reintegrate the Durme river into the urban landscape, creating an attractive space for residents and visitors. "With this boardwalk, we make the Durme visible and experienceable again in our city. We create an attractive place where residents and visitors can walk, relax, and enjoy the water," said Filip Liebaut, alderman for Urban Development and Environment. "Thus, we are investing not only in infrastructure but also in quality of life and experience in the heart of Lokeren."

The project, a collaboration between designer OMGEVING cv and contractor HYE nv, received support from the Flemish government. However, it was not without controversy. Opposition parties criticized the final cost, which ballooned to around 1.2 million euros, significantly higher than the initially projected 500,000 euros. The plans were presented in 2024 and the opening occurred about six months later than announced.

Future phases will include access ramps and a new transit hub, further transforming the adjacent pedestrian area into a green recreational space. Concurrently, a new meeting garden opened across from the boardwalk, adjacent to the Welzijnshuis.