Knokke-Heist has activated its heat and mobility plan which bans non-local cars from its city centre.
Fearing an influx of visitors as a result of the hot weather, the municipality has deployed police to stop tourists from driving into the centre of Knokke. Only local traffic will be allowed between 12:30 and 18:00 in an effort to reduce traffic.
Mayor Cathy Coudyser was quoted in Het Nieuwsblad as saying “People still have to get used to this, but this plan is absolutely necessary."
Access will be restricted within the boundary of Canadasquare Oost – Elizabetlaan – Abraham Hansplein – Koningslaan - Pastoor Opdedrinckplein – Sebastiaan Nachtegaelestraat – Albertlaan – Zoutelaan – Elizabetlaan and Kustlaan in the centre of the city.
This is an expanded perimeter following a test phase last week. The perimeter can be extended dynamically if this is deemed a requirement on the day.
The municipality is encouraging visitors to choose walking, cycling or public transport. They also highlight that a bus serves the centre from Natiënlaan car park. Trains run direct between Brussels and the centre of Knokke, taking around 90 minutes.
The new Heat and Mobility Plan follows scenes on 1 May where 40,000 cars sought to enter the municipality on one of the sunniest days of the year so far. Drivers have been warned that the new plan will likely cause delays as the reasons for entering Knokke will be checked by police at discouragement perimeters.
Those without a reason to enter Knokke will be redirected, with potential fines. Local traffic, including second-home owners, will need to bring ID or some means of identifying themselves. Those allowed to enter the perimeter are those living or working within the zone, local businesses, emergency services and schools.
At present, there are no plans to continue the ban into the weekend.
