The Belval district is poised for a radical transformation as part of an extensive redevelopment initiative, involving the creation of a tramline and the reduction of vehicular traffic to promote sustainable mobility options.

In a new mobility project unveiled on Thursday, Belval's future landscape envisions broader walkways for pedestrians and dedicated cycling lanes, accompanied by abundant green spaces and fewer spaces for cars.

Originally an industrial wasteland, Belval has evolved into a hub for education and recreation. This transformation will continue over the next twelve years and will include the establishment of a high-speed tramline connecting Belvaux and Belval to Cloche d'Or. This tramline represents a pivotal component of the Luxembourg City/Esch-sur-Alzette link, a significant undertaking with an estimated budget of €3 billion.

The government is also committed to a substantial increase in the use of public transportation and walking by 2035, along with a 14-fold rise in bicycle journeys. To facilitate this shift, dedicated cycling paths will be developed.

Mobility Minister François Bausch stressed the urgency of adapting to evolving environmental and societal challenges, stating: "Since today's environmental and societal challenges have changed profoundly, since the need for mobility is urgent and constantly increasing, we need to use our infrastructure more efficiently and offer attractive alternatives to the private car."

Collaborating with Agora, the developer of Belval, the government will undertake a comprehensive re-evaluation of the district's road network. Notable areas of focus include the Porte de France, Porte de la Recherche, Jazz, and Lumières boulevards at the heart of the site, along with the complete transformation of Avenue du Rock'n'Roll.

Environment Minister Joëlle Welfring expressed enthusiasm for the planned shift toward prioritising pedestrians and eco-friendly modes of transport. She remarked: "The advancements outlined in Agora's proposed revisions, such as greening tram tracks, extensive tree planting along roadways, and soil improvement for recreational green spaces not only enhance the urban environment, but also improve the quality of life for citizens."

Take a look at the before and after of Belval below:

The current Boulevard du Jazz will undergo a major transformation... / © Agora
To accommodate the high-speed tram. / © Agora
The Porte de France Sud sector as it exists today. / © Agora
And its projected version for 2035, with a large pedestrian area and a new cycle path. / © Agora
In the Porte de France Nord sector, the major road avenue will disappear. / © Agora
To make room for partially grassed tram tracks and a separate cycle path. / © Agora
The current view of Boulevard des Lumières.
And its projected version in 2035, with a new row of trees and bus lanes. / © Agora
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