E40 closure during night works

We are currently reinforcing the high-voltage line (380kV) between the Mercator (Kruibeke) and Bruegel (Dilbeek) high-voltage substations. To remove the old conductors, the E40 near Bekkerzeel (Asse) will be temporarily closed during the night of 12-13 September. The road will be closed twice for 30 minutes, with one hour between the start of the first and second blocks. During those times, there will be no traffic at the level of the works.

Temporary disruption for one night

Because the conductors between the high-voltage pylons cross the busy E40, the motorway will be temporarily closed in both directions just past the Groot-Bijgaarden complex. The works are planned for the night of Thursday 12 September to Friday 13 September, between 10 pm and 2 am. In consultation with the police and the competent authorities, the decision was taken not to close the motorway completely, but to close it in two non-consecutive blocks of 30 minutes each with one hour between the start of the first and second blocks. . Between those times, traffic can continue to use the motorway at reduced speed (50 km/h). 

For more information about current traffic disruptions, see Flemish Traffic Centre’s website.

Preparation of new HTLS conductors

As part of the Mercator-Bruegel project, we are reinforcing the axis between the Mercator (Kruibeke) and Bruegel (Dilbeek) high-voltage substations. The high-voltage grid operator is doing this by replacing the old conductors with HTLS (High Temperature Low Sag) conductors capable of carrying larger amounts of power.

We will be working on the section of the route at the Bruegel high-voltage substation, located nearby the E40. We will be working on the section of the route at the Bruegel high-voltage substation, located nearby the E40. The existing conductors, divided into left and right circuits, will be loosened, laid on the ground and then pulled across the motorway (E40). To prepare for the works, Elia has started erecting two new high-voltage pylons on both sides of the motorway to which the new HTLS conductors will later be attached. While hanging the conductors over the E40, a large crane (passe-cable) will be installed. The crane will prevent the conductor from falling onto traffic and will ensure that the wires are safely pulled over the motorway without interfering with traffic.