Noorderterras and hangars below will already be refurbished next year, Steenplein followed afterwards (Antwerp)
Part of the quay plain has already been tackled in both the south and the north of the Scheldt quays. Until now, not much has happened in the center of the city. But that’s going to change now. With the zone between Steenplein and Noorderterras, the heart of the quays is now also being redeveloped.
A total of 813 meters of new flood defenses will be provided in this zone. 107 meters fixed and 706 meters mobile. This is part of the Sigma Plan to protect Antwerp and other cities and municipalities along the Scheldt from flooding.
also carry out city work. “The Steenplein will be greened between the atmosphere of a small park and the walking terrace Steen and Noorderterra will change into a green ‘Kaailine’. Pavilions will be built under the exposed hangars and the castle wall will be laid,” says the alderman of Urban Development Annick De Ridder (N-VA).
Map of the old town
Under the hangars, near the Jordaenskaai, the lost map of Antwerp is once again visible. The old castle wall is exposed over the entire width of the hangars to a depth of 2.7 meters. This gives a view of the building that formed the border of the city around the year 1000.
Along the disappeared Mattestraat, near the Steen, pavilions for play space and information or exhibition space are being built. “The hangars will thus make the past tangible and provide a route for the passengers of the cruise ships,” explains Annick De Ridder.
The Noorderterras must also regain part of its former grandeur. In two places, a connection with the space below will be made via a staircase. “It should be a living space with planting areas with ornamental grasses, perennials and shrubs. The choice has been made for species that are resistant to a saline climate,” continues the ships.
And then the Steenplein
Following the redesign of the Noorderterras and the quay area below, the Steenplein will also be next. The pavilion of shipping company Flandria, which is iconic for Antwerp residents, will remain and the trees will also be largely preserved.
“Excess elements such as the temporary kiosk near the blue stone will be removed, as will the existing pavement. We will also continue to make the square greener, including ornamental grasses,” the aldermen said.
Events, such as during the Winter Festival and summer festivities, will in future no longer be organized on the square but under the Noorderterras. In the meantime, there is also the plan to extend the square to the Suikerrui with the contested tunnel for through traffic under the road.
The final design for the redevelopment of this part of the Scheldt quays is expected in the spring of 2023. The work will take place and exceed current legislation, which will stop at the end of 24.