Rond Ronse

The Challenge

Ronse has long struggled with mobility and livability issues caused by the N60 cutting through its city center. This major road generated congestion, noise pollution, and fragmented the urban fabric, while insufficient regional connectivity hindered economic growth. Despite decades of proposals, none fully addressed these complex challenges. The Rond Ronse project was conceived to create a vital link between the N60 and a southern bypass road, improving accessibility and mobility while driving ecological and urban transformation. Key ambitions include adding 350 hectares of new forest in the Flemish Ardennes to boost biodiversity and climate resilience, and converting peripheral residential areas into open, green spaces.

The Solution

Tractebel’s design combines advanced infrastructure with ecological sensitivity. The new 10 km road includes two 2.5 km bored tunnels, minimizing disruption and preserving the scenic continuity of the Flemish Ardennes. Above ground, the southern bypass road provides secondary connectivity, complemented by a continuous pedestrian and cycling path along the city’s southern edge. Public plazas, embankments, and elevated platforms punctuate the route, blending infrastructure with the natural landscape. Sustainable water management ensures rainwater infiltration through green verges before flowing into canals, while noise mitigation measures—such as multifunctional screens and sculptural earthworks—reduce sound impact and enhance visual integration.

The Impact

Rond Ronse will dramatically improve mobility and quality of life in the region. By resolving traffic conflicts and enhancing safety, the project ensures smoother travel and better connectivity. The reclaimed space above the tunnels will become a vibrant green zone, fostering recreation and livability. Ecological interventions not only minimize environmental impact but actively enrich landscapes, promoting biodiversity and climate resilience. This integrated approach sets a benchmark for sustainable infrastructure, harmonizing mobility, nature, and urban development in a way that benefits both people and the environment.