The closure of five Brussels tunnels by 2030 could save tens of millions of euros without significantly affecting mobility, according to a study by Brussels Mobility and consultancy firm Stratec, as reported by Le Soir on Friday.
The report, part of the Good Move mobility plan for Brussels, directly targets five tunnels (Vleurgat, Bailli, Boileau, Georges Henri and Woluwe) "with a view to eliminating them by 2030".
Estimated savings of around €60 million could be achieved by 2030. The study weighs up the costs of repurposing and redeveloping the tunnels, versus how expensive it would be to pay for their renovation and maintenance if they are kept open.
The Bailli tunnel alone could save more than €40 million in future renovation costs, which are projected to exceed €30 million by 2029.
In terms of mobility, the preliminary study anticipates reasonable increases in travel times and limited to minor traffic displacement.
