The new Verapazbrug has officially opened for traffic, marking a significant change in Ghent’s local transport network. From Friday, 2025-07-11 13:11:00, thousands of cars are expected to cross this bridge daily, reshaping the traffic flow around the Handelsdok area.
- Nieuwe Verapazbrug opent en verandert verkeer
- Stadsring R40 wordt verlegd naar Afrikalaan
- ANPR-camera controleert Stapelplein doorgang
- Boetes van 58 euro bij overtredingen
- Fietspad loopt nu onder de brug
- AWV past lichten en markeringen aan
This development reroutes the R40 city ring from Dok-Noord and Dok-Zuid to Afrikalaan and Koopvaardijlaan, extending all the way to Dampoort. But how will this affect daily commutes, and what new regulations should drivers be aware of?
With Dok-Noord now closed to through traffic and new ANPR cameras installed, enforcement is stricter than ever. Let’s explore what this means for local drivers and residents.
Will the new traffic setup ease congestion or cause initial disruptions? While some delays were reported on Koopvaardijlaan towards Dampoort, authorities expect this to settle. Key points to consider:
- Through traffic over Stapelplein is now banned and monitored by license plate recognition.
- Drivers violating the ban face a €58 fine after a two-week warning period.
- Traffic lights and road markings near Dampoort have been adjusted to accommodate the changes.
- Local residents have welcomed the bridge, anticipating more freedom and improved mobility.
As Ghent adapts to this new traffic pattern, drivers are encouraged to stay informed and comply with regulations. Will this bridge become a model for future infrastructure projects in Belgium? Only time will tell, but for now, it’s a welcome change worth monitoring closely.
