When it comes to prolonging public works, Brussels has got something of a name for pushing back deadlines. Indeed, the city's residents jest quite affectionately about the scaffold sarcophagus that has for decades clad the imposing structure of Palais de Justice.
Now another part of the city is becoming defined by the construction site that impedes residents and obliges local businesses to adapt to a permanent procession of machinery and ensuing disturbance. The location is of course the Palais du Midi, a grand building with corinthian columns to please passers-by. Though the buildings should remain unchanged at street level, below the surface plans to put build a new metro line have hit an obstacle. This has turned the construction site into a feature.
The architectural gem has been beset by building works for so long that it now seems more like an example of urban decay rather than prized heritage. I dislike the term dystopian (now a buzzword among commentators unwilling to pay due attention to the details of degeneration) but the area is starting to have that look, with the containers stacked in Avenue Stalingrad and facades decorated with dust. There's a touch of Blade Runner to it...
The problem shows little sign of being resolved soon, as efforts to dig a tunnel beneath the building have been held up by the spongy subsoil that contractors say is an unforeseen consideration that will delay the project by eight years and €170 million. The hold-up has pitted the consortium of building companies against city officials. The budget has already been stretched and who knows when the new line might finally see the light of day.
Yesterday the minister for mobility dismissed suggestions to do away with the tunnel and put the blame firmly on the contractors, arguing that they were well aware of the challenges. But just how the tunnel will actually be completed is not clear; it might even require dismantling part of the Palais to deal with the tricky section.
When the line will actually be finished remains anyone's guess. The provisional completion date is 2032, though if past experience is anything to go by you might think twice before putting money on it. What's your bet?
Let @Orlando_tbt know.
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