Brussels, Belgium – The long-awaited redevelopment of Place Meiser, one of the capital’s most dangerous intersections, has officially received its planning permit, paving the way for a major overhaul aimed at improving safety and accessibility for all road users.
Located in the municipality of Schaerbeek, Place Meiser – often dubbed “Place misère” or “Misery Square” due to its chaotic traffic flow – has long been considered one of Brussels’ most perilous junctions.
The square’s inefficient roundabout layout, coupled with a constant stream of vehicles, has made it a hotspot for congestion and accidents.
Following years of public complaints, regional authorities confirmed in June 2023 that the area would be redesigned. Now, nearly two years later, Brussels Mobility has secured a permit to proceed with the transformation.
A Safer and More Organized Junction
“Place Meiser will soon be transformed into a safer traffic junction for cyclists, pedestrians, and motorists,” said Ans Persoons (Vooruit), Secretary of State for Urban Planning. “It is a crossroads that people are afraid to cross, so it needs to be improved and made safer.”
The redevelopment will replace the current large, grey roundabout with a more structured and user-friendly crossroads.
The plan involves dividing the intersection into two separate junctions: one to regulate traffic along the Reyers/Wahis boulevards axis and another to manage flow on Rue Cambier, Avenue Rogier, Chaussée de Louvain, and Avenue Plasky.
This segmentation is expected to ease navigation for motorists while enhancing safety for vulnerable road users.
Improved Public Transport and Green Spaces
Pedestrian and cycling infrastructure will be significantly improved, with wider and clearly demarcated paths ensuring a safer experience for those on foot or two wheels.
Additionally, the existing tram tracks, which currently cut diagonally across the roundabout, will be rerouted to run alongside the new junction. This adjustment will simplify access to public transport stops and improve connectivity to the nearby Meiser railway station.
Another key feature of the project is the introduction of green spaces to what is now a predominantly asphalt-covered area.
The plan includes planting around 100 trees and incorporating flower beds to create a more welcoming and shaded public space. “By removing the roundabout, we are freeing up space to make Place Meiser a more pleasant meeting place,” Persoons noted.
Uncertainty Over Timeline and Expected Disruptions
Despite the project’s approval, the timeline for construction remains uncertain. The final schedule for the redevelopment will be determined by the next Brussels government, which is currently facing prolonged negotiations with little progress after more than nine months.
Until a concrete plan is put in place, residents and commuters are left in limbo regarding when they can expect real changes. Moreover, Place Meiser serves as a key junction connecting Boulevard Reyers and Chaussée de Louvain, making it a critical artery for Brussels traffic.
Once construction begins, motorists should brace for significant disruptions. Traffic diversions and potential delays are expected as work progresses, although specific mitigation plans have yet to be outlined.
While the redevelopment of Place Meiser promises a safer and greener future for the junction, commuters will need to navigate uncertainty and potential inconvenience in the meantime.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
