Police in the Antwerp district of Deurne had to intervene once more on Wednesday morning as protests against tree felling near Boekenberg Park continued. The Drakenhoflaan, where work resumed on Wednesday, was closed off, and one protester was arrested for disregarding police instructions.
The city of Antwerp began cutting down trees on Monday in preparation for the redevelopment of several streets, which includes constructing a new tram turnaround. The planned turnaround has been a contentious issue in the neighbourhood for years, with ongoing legal challenges still unresolved. However, the current legal appeal does not halt the works, prompting the city to move forward with felling trees.
A local residents’ committee, backed by opposition parties Groen and PVDA as well as environmental organisations, has been protesting at the site since Monday. Police have maintained a visible presence from the start, cordoning off the area. On Tuesday, three protesters were detained for failing to follow orders to keep their distance.
Protests broke out again on Wednesday, this time on Drakenhoflaan. “The police have closed off Drakenhoflaan to ensure the work proceeds safely,” explained police spokesperson Kim Bastiaens. “People are being asked to leave the street and comply with police instructions.” One individual has already been arrested.
Meanwhile, a hastily filed emergency legal procedure to stop the tree felling is awaiting a decision. The local residents’ group, Het Juiste Spoor, hopes for a swift resolution from the court.
