The road redesign project will simplify pedestrian crossings, create new safe cycle lanes and facilitate public transport connections, helping to reduce road risks and calm traffic in the area.
Among other infrastructure, the new Place Sainctelette will feature a new pedestrian and cyclist bridge, which will increase safety in the area.
Sarens was commissioned by Emotec to assemble, transport and install the bridge, which weighs 110 tons and is 37 metres long, in an operation that was completed on September 13th.
The ambitious redesign of Place Sainctelette in Brussels will significantly improve road safety in the area, with the creation of new pedestrian crossings, cycle lanes and new public transport connections. This project, promoted by Brussels Mobility to redevelop the area stretching from Place de l'Yser to Avenue du Port along the Brussels-Charleroi Canal, will also help to connect the centre of Brussels with the municipality of Molenbeek-Saint-Jean.
One of the most significant elements of the redevelopment of the square is the installation of a pedestrian and cycle bridge made of prefabricated steel, which is designed to be integrated next to the existing Sainctelette and De Trooz bridges, thus facilitating safe passage for pedestrians and cyclists without causing any disruption to traffic.
Sarens, world leader in heavy lifting, engineered transport and crane rental services, participated, on behalf of its client Emotec, in the assembly, transport and installation of the bridge structure, which is 37 metres long and weighs 110 tons. In the first phase, the Sarens team used an LTM1070-4.2 and an LTM1110-5.1 cranes to assemble the structure in Geel (Antwerp region). Sarens then helped load the structure onto the barge operated by HEBO Pontoon to transport the assembled bridge via the Albert Canal and the Scheldt to its final location, using two LTM1300-6.2 units.
Once at its final location, Sarens deployed an LTM1650-8.1 and an AC700 units. After a thorough study of the environment, the LTM1650-8.1 was positioned on the steps of the square, securing its position to ensure operation under the highest safety standards, while the AC700 was positioned on a steep road. Despite these difficulties, the operation was carried out without incident on September 13th, in collaboration with Emotec, which was responsible for the final alignment of the bridge.
Once this structure is in place, prefabricated slabs will be installed, along with reinforcements and concrete filling, in a project that, according to Brussels Mobility's forecasts, will take at least two months. This road infrastructure is expected to open to the public in December, ahead of the installation of a second bridge in the area.
The new Sainctelette square will also have a significant cultural impact on the area, creating new green and multifunctional areas for leisure, events and relaxation, positioning the square as a cultural centre by improving access to key locations in Brussels such as the Musel Kanal and the Kaai Theatre. In addition, increasing the vegetation in the area will help to promote biodiversity, with a reduction in harmful emissions by prioritising non-polluting means of transport.
Over the past few years, Sarens has established itself as a strategic player in the construction, installation and renovation of bridges over the world. Recently the company has completed several major projects, such as the century-old Colbert Bridge in Dieppe (France), or the installation of the 5,850-ton OA14 bridge in Bettembourg (Luxembourg). Sarens has also installed a new pedestrian bridge between the Hazebrouck (France) railroad station and its parking lot and an 8,400-ton railway bridge on the A1 freeway in Amsterdam (Netherlands).
About Sarens
Sarens is the global leader and reference in crane rental, heavy lift and engineered transportation services. With state-of-the-art equipment, value engineering, one of the world's largest inventories of cranes, transporters and special rigging equipment, Sarens offers creative and intelligent solutions to today's heavy lifting and engineering transport challenges.
With more than 100 entities in 65 countries operating without borders, Sarens is an ideal partner for small to large-scale projects. Sarens currently employs 5,000 highly qualified professionals who are ready to serve the needs of any client worldwide and in all market sectors. https://www.sarens.com/