Linkebeek Station Closure Approved Amidst Ongoing Debate
A controversial plan to upgrade rail infrastructure in Linkebeek has narrowly passed the city council, despite significant local opposition and ongoing legal challenges. The plan, proposed by Infrabel, aims to increase train capacity and speed on the line 124 between Brussels and Nivelles as part of the broader Regional Express Network (GEN) project.
For over two decades, Infrabel has sought to double the number of tracks along key routes, including the one running through Linkebeek.Faced with strong resistance from residents,Infrabel presented a compromise: maintaining the existing two tracks for a 700-meter stretch for at least the next 12 years,but closing the Linkebeek station.
Commuters will be directed to the Uccle Moensberg station,accessible via a planned bicycle and pedestrian bridge connecting the current Linkebeek station parking area to Moensberg. While acknowledging potential travel time increases for local residents and students of the Royal Atheneum Uccle 2, officials highlight anticipated benefits. Within two years, line 124 is expected to extend to Moensberg, accompanied by the addition of two S-trains, offering increased service to the area.
The city council approved the proposal on Monday evening with a narrow margin of 7 votes in favor, 6 against, and 1 abstention.Notably, Mayor Ghequiere voted against the plan, mirroring his position from an earlier approval in March.
However, the project remains uncertain. Three legal appeals have been filed with the council of State, meaning further progress is contingent on the outcome of these proceedings.
Infrabel released a brief statement expressing satisfaction with the council’s decision and reaffirming its commitment to working with all stakeholders to finalize the agreement. The Linkebeek station closure is currently projected for around 2028,coinciding with the expected arrival of line 124 at Moensberg.
