Saliha Raïss, Alderwoman for Mobility and Public Works in Molenbeek, recently presented ‘Molendijk’: her vision to transform the Quai de Hainaut and Quai des Charbonnages into welcoming public spaces.
Vooruit.brussels wants to turn the quays into a genuine meeting place. Just like the dikes in popular seaside towns, these canal-side spaces could become a real draw for both Brussels residents and visitors. The current situation — with the area largely car-free — offers a unique opportunity to shape a future-oriented vision for the whole zone.
“In Belgium and abroad, dikes and promenades by the water bring people together. They go for walks or bike rides, grab an ice cream on a terrace, or let their kids play freely and safely,” says Saliha Raïss about the project. “This part of Molenbeek has been craving high-quality public space for years.”
The Quays: a lively axis and soft mobility route
Today, the Canal area is buzzing with renewal. What used to be a grey industrial zone near the Porte de Ninovehas now been transformed into a lively city park. A brand new park recently opened on the Quai Béco and just across the water, the Kanal cultural centre is steadily taking shape in the former Citroën garage. Place Sainctelette is undergoing a green makeover, becoming a welcoming space with more room for pedestrians and cyclists. And in summer 2024, a permit was granted for the redevelopment of the Maximilien Park, where the Zenne River will be reopened.
Amid all this progress, the Quai de Hainaut and Quai des Charbonnages are still lagging behind — the missing link in this wave of urban renewal. That gap needs to be filled. That’s why we’re using the essential renovation works on the quay walls as an opportunity to completely reimagine this part of the canal zone.
Key goals and elements
- Extra advantages for local businesses
- A high-quality pedestrian promenade designed for people
- Safe and high-standard cycling infrastructure
- Alternative parking options for residents
- More trees for shade and benches for encounters
