Melaan Canal : Mechelen, a charming city in Belgium, is taking an important step in reviving its historic waterways. Starting in January 2025, a section of the Melaan canal at the former Posthoorn bridge will be uncovered in Sint-Katelijnestraat, bringing the city’s past back to life. This project is part of a broader initiative to put vliet back at the center of Mechelen’s cityscape.

Future image of a canal in Sint-Katelijnestraat city of Mechelen Belgium
Future image of a canal in Sint-Katelijnestraat city of Mechelen Belgium
@Stad Mechelen

What is a Vliet ?

Mechelen, a city closely linked to the Dijle River, is rediscovering its rich water history as a “Water City. One of the many branches of the Dijle, the Melaanvliet, is coming back to life in the historic city center. A vliet is a traditional Flemish waterway, often narrower and more winding than a canal….Mechelen, a city closely linked to the Dijle River, is rediscovering its rich water history as a “Water City. One of the many branches of the Dijle, the Melaanvliet, is coming back to life in the historic city center. A vliet is a traditional Flemish waterway, often narrower and more winding than a canal….

Historic map of Mechelen, showing the Melaan canal (indicated by arrow)
clearly visible as a tributary of the Dijle River.
Historic map of Mechelen, showing the Melaan canal (indicated by arrow)
clearly visible as a tributary of the Dijle River.
@Regional Image Bank Mechelen

The word “vliet” comes from the Old Dutch word for “stream” of “Canal”. Floods were originally natural waterways that were often later modified for agriculture or transportation.

A Look at the Past

The visible waterway is part of the historic New Melaan canal (vliet), which is gradually being restored at various locations around the city. The most famous piece, located in the Melaan, was unveiled in 2006. Other notable examples include the Koolvliet at Zakstraat-Muntstraat, part of the Old Melaan, and the exposed quay wall in the garden of the Archbishop’s Palace.
Continue reading below the photos

Canal the New Melaan in city of Mechelen Belgium
Canal the New Melaan in city of Mechelen Belgium
@Verschueren Eddy
AHA verge in Stilt garden under which the Melaan canal flows
AHA verge in Stilt garden under which the Melaan canal flows
@Verschueren Eddy

Why restore the Canals?

At the beginning of the 20th century, the Mechelen canals, once tributaries of the Dyle river, were filled in for sanitary reasons and due to floods. These problems were remedied years ago and the city embarked on a mission to bring back these waterways for various reasons:

  • Improved quality of life: Water features create a more pleasant living environment.
  • Enhanced aesthetic: Restored canals add to the historic charm of Mechelen.
  • Enhanced biodiversity: Channels provide habitats for various aquatic animals and attract wildlife.
  • Sustainable urban development: canals contribute to a greener and more sustainable cityscape.

The Restoration Process

Public Works Alderman Patrick Princen emphasized the benefits of restoring the canals. He explained that the addition of a helophyte filter, a system of marsh plants, will help purify rainwater.

Construction works open up canal in St. Catherine Street city of Mechelen Belgium
Construction works open up canal in St. Catherine Street city of Mechelen Belgium
@Verschueren Eddy

Addressing Challenges

While promising, the project has also presented logistical challenges. The construction site in the busy access road downtown, St. Catherine Street has necessitated temporary traffic detour for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists. However, the city has implemented clear signage and alternate routes to minimize disruption.

Making structures visible again of watercourse in Sint-Katelijnestraat city of Mechelen Belgium
Making structures visible again of watercourse in Sint-Katelijnestraat city of Mechelen Belgium
@Verschueren Eddy

A better future

Mechelen’s commitment to restoring its waterways is a sign of a broader ambition to create a more attractive and sustainable city. By prioritizing water as a central element in urban planning, Mechelen is setting an example for other cities seeking to revitalize their historic heritage.

Construction works open up canal in Sint-Katelijnestraat city of Mechelen Belgium
Construction works open up canal in Sint-Katelijnestraat city of Mechelen Belgium
@Verschueren Eddy

Conclusion

The resurfacing of the Melaan canal marks an important milestone in Mechelen’s urban renewal. As the city continues to invest in its waterways, it is creating a more vibrant and livable environment for its residents and visitors.

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