Vita Hospital Plans Rejected in Sint-Niklaas

In response to the Council of State's rejection of the initial plans for the new Vitaz hospital in Sint-Niklaas, the city has unveiled a comprehensive mobility plan aimed at addressing significant traffic concerns. The Council highlighted that the original proposal failed to adequately consider the impact on the busy N40 and N71 roads, as well as the need for efficient public transport and emergency vehicle access. The new plan is designed to facilitate the hospital's construction on Neerkouter by 2030. General Manager Stefan Van den Brock expressed satisfaction with the swift action taken by the city’s administration. The updated mobility plan includes detailed forecasts of staff and patient movements, which are crucial for planning the necessary infrastructure to accommodate the anticipated increase in traffic. Key features of the plan are expected to involve enhancements to road access, modifications to public transport routes, and improved traffic management strategies. To further support the project, a new bus stop will be established at the hospital site, which is anticipated to streamline access for patients and visitors. The city aims to have a new zoning plan approved by spring, which will be instrumental in moving the project forward. While the best-case scenario envisions the hospital opening in 2030, there is an acknowledgment that delays may occur. Van den Brock emphasized the importance of relocating the hospital from the city center, noting that the Neerkouter site is strategically positioned near the E17 highway, making it accessible for patients traveling from outside Sint-Niklaas.