In the coming months, Verhelst Aannemingen, in collaboration with De Witte Vandecaveye and Strukton, will work on the renewal of the 3km long tram track in De Panne, between Plopsaland and the Esplanade. This project will be executed using an innovative technique chosen by De Lijn. Where previously the tram tracks were laid on wooden sleepers placed on a porphyry stone foundation, prefabricated concrete elements will now be used on a crushed concrete foundation. These elements are placed at height and then underpinned with liquid concrete. It is a completely new method that has only been applied by a few contractors.
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The advantages of this technique are significant. Wooden sleepers have a lifespan of about 20-25 years, while the tracks last 30 years. This means that major work is needed every 20 and 10 years to maintain the track. However, the new prefab concrete elements have a lifespan of 60 years, which means only the tracks themselves need to be replaced after 30 years. The prefab concrete elements and the foundation can be preserved. This makes the renewal of the tracks simpler and more efficient.
In addition to durability, this technique also offers ecological benefits. In the current tram beds, there is hardly any space for greenery. Thanks to the new prefab ladder plates, a fully green bed can grow directly next to the tracks. This contributes to a greener and more pleasant cityscape, while simultaneously improving the lifespan and stability of the tram track.
