Lokeren Towpath Reopens After Extensive Renovation

The towpath alongside the Boven-Durme river in Lokeren is once again accessible to cyclists and pedestrians. This section, stretching from Markt to Oude-Bruglaan and passing through Verloren Bos, had been closed since mid-April to undergo significant renewal.

The Flemish Waterway managed the complete renovation of the approximately 1.4-kilometer path, extending down to the foundation. Tree roots had caused the road surface to buckle in several places, creating potholes and cracks that compromised comfort and safety. The Flemish Waterway installed a new layer of crushed stone, poured new concrete curbs, and applied a fresh asphalt layer. Some benches were also replaced, while those in good condition were put back.

During the construction period, a detour was in place via Sportlaan and the opposite side of the Durme. Visitors attending the Lokerse Feesten can now utilize the towpath again. However, the towpath downstream from the Durme remains closed until February 2027 due to ongoing dredging works in the Molsbroek nature reserve and Hamputten. The combination of construction traffic and recreational use poses too great a safety risk in that area. The dike on the other side of the Durme, towards Zele, remains open to walkers and cyclists.