Completing the Brussels Metro Line 3 is likely to take longer than planned, according to the CEO of the Brussels public transport company STIB, Brieuc de Meeûs.
Initially scheduled for 2030-2031, the Gare du Nord - Albert section of the future metro line 3 in Brussels is unlikely to be fully operational until at least 2032 or 2033.
However, amid uncertain timelines, Meeûs is certain that the work will be completed eventually. "I think we'll get there one day, no matter what," he said on Tuesday, during the presentation of STIB's annual report.
Regardless, Meeûs insisted that "work is progressing well" particularly at the Toots Thielemans and Albert stations. "We have already built kilometres of tunnels," he said. "But we must obviously respect political decisions."
The project has suffered several setbacks, mainly due to major cost overruns and political deadlock. At the North Station, a key tunnel under the railway tracks, intended to serve as a turning loop, has seen its budget double from €44 million to €88 million.
Last March, the Brussels government, refused to approve the continuation of work at this location, citing uncertainty about the project's budgetary sustainability.
This political paralysis also affects the Palais du Midi project, another key point on the route. This project, estimated at nearly €400 million, is a source of tension within the Brussels majority and has sparked opposition from local associations.
The City of Brussels issued a favourable opinion during the consultation on 15 April, subject to strict conditions. However, a decision by the regional government is awaited.
