Assenede is a modest village with a charming market square in its center. The N436 is its major arterial road; it not only performs traffic functions but also provides access to commercial and community activities. The village of Assenede has commissioned the Arcadis / BUUR team to design a new layout for both the regional road and the market square. For a small village such as Assenede this new layout represents nothing less than a complete makeover.
The new design of the N486 section passing through Assenede also addresses a certain number of existing spatial and traffic-related issues. Within this context, the new layout ensures the smooth traffic of public transport, increases the safety around schools and revalorizes the public domain as a whole. With regard to the market place, the project puts a strong emphasis on enhanced visitor experience.
BUUR aims to reinforce the rural nature of the village by the massive introduction of greenery along the road. At some well-chosen spots, the view is opened to create a ‘space’ with extra focus on safe crossroads for cyclists or bus stops near schools. In addition, the project provides a distinctive profile, tailored to a specific context, for each individual sub-segment. Cars are mainly parked between the trees alongside the road or in one of the three uniformly designed parking lots located in the center of the village.
The surroundings of the market square create a significant oasis along the road. By narrowing the road and reducing the parking spaces, the project succeeds in creating a very agreeable place to stay. Together with other existing monuments, the Liberation Tree – a ninety year old red oak – constitutes a nice setting for terraces and benches.
Construction of the project started in 2011. The market square and the N486 section were opened with a festive ceremony on June 14th 2013.
