The renovated Gedempte Gracht, Gedempte Burgwal, and Lutherse Burgwal have recently reopened to cyclists and pedestrians. The Hague is growing, and space in the city center is limited. Therefore, the municipality is working on solutions to keep the city liveable and accessible. The redesign of these three streets contributes to this: there is more space for cyclists and pedestrians, more greenery, and more room for terraces and bicycle parking. Moreover, the route offers cyclists a pleasant alternative to the congestion on Grote Marktstraat.
Alderman for Mobility Arjen Kapteijns is satisfied with the final result:
The Gedempte Gracht, Gedempte Burgwal, and Lutherse Burgwal have been transformed from busy traffic streets into a place where cyclists and pedestrians are given more space, and where entrepreneurs also benefit from a more pleasant atmosphere. This redesign demonstrates that a safe and green city center goes hand in hand with vibrancy and economic strength.
More space, more greenery, more quality
The streets had long been in need of a new and future-proof layout. On-street parking was already no longer permitted here, and time windows applied for loading and unloading. Previously, a temporary layout featuring wooden decking, planters, and benches demonstrated that the street could be made safer and more attractive. Therefore, the decking has been replaced by wider sidewalks, providing pedestrians with more space and allowing for more spacious terraces. The temporary planters have been replaced by permanent green areas and new trees.
Separate parking spaces for bicycles and scooters have also been created so that bicycles and scooters can be parked easily and the sidewalks remain clear. The result is a more attractive, greener, and better-designed street.
Safer cycling, more pleasant walking
The three streets now clearly form a route for cyclists and pedestrians. New speed bumps reduce the speed of car traffic, making the streets safer and more comfortable for everyone walking, cycling, shopping, or sitting on a terrace here.
After 11:30 AM, when truck traffic is no longer permitted and cars are no longer allowed to park on the street, the route becomes even quieter and clearer, and motorists can use the parking garages. Cyclists can then ride through comfortably without having to contend with the crowds on Grote Marktstraat.
The Hague, cycling city
The renewal of these streets aligns with the broader ambition to keep The Hague liveable, accessible, and traffic-safe. The bicycle plays an important role in this: healthy, sustainable, and often the fastest way to get around the city. That is why the municipality is investing in cycling lessons, affordable bicycles, secure parking, and comfortable routes, such as the Sterfietsroutes that connect popular destinations.
