Temporary pedestrian bridge opens over Grote Herk in Alken

Alken residents can once again walk between the town center and sports facilities starting Saturday, thanks to a temporary pedestrian bridge over the Grote Herk river. This connection is a significant step in the Alken Vallei project, which aims to transform the former De Alk recreation domain into a 5-hectare natural and recreational area.

The project, which commenced in spring 2025, prioritizes water management, biodiversity, and recreation. The closure of De Alk last April had severed the direct link between the Laagdorp area and the sports halls. "From Saturday, that connection will be restored via a temporary pedestrian bridge," said councilor Frank Vroonen (Groen). "This is a huge added value, especially for residents of the nursing home. However, the bridge remains closed to cyclists and motorized traffic until the permanent bridge is installed."

Progress is visible throughout the project. A new pumptrack is complete, and the parking at the sports halls is fully accessible again. A kiss-and-ride zone is also being developed to improve traffic safety. The Grote Herk river itself has been restored, with the Flemish Environment Agency reopening the waterway and creating more space through features like a meander and a winter bed. This enhances the river's capacity to handle heavy rainfall, reducing flood risk, while also creating new habitats that boost biodiversity.

The Alken Vallei project has received €600,000 in subsidies from the Flemish government through the Blue Deal and 'Flanders Breaks Out' programs, aimed at tackling water scarcity and reducing paved surfaces. Work will resume after the construction holiday, focusing on finishing play areas, the sports field, skate park, and landscaping. The entire project is slated for completion in spring 2027.