Belgian network operator Infrabel has reallocated EUR 124.5 million from two major projects, neither of which is scheduled to start before 2030, to four smaller schemes. This affects the Ghent – Terneuzen rail freight transport link, with EUR 87.5 million, and the Antwerp-Berchem station with EUR 37 million. In the 2023-2032 investment plan, this brings the total available for more advanced projects to EUR 176.5 million, including EUR 52 million in EU grants. Projects relating to seaports remain the main beneficiaries. A sum of EUR 68.7 million is being channelled into rail freight transport to and from Belgian ports. Of this, EUR 42.8 million is allocated to the Port of Antwerp-Bruges for electrification, the renewal of track bundles and connections, new switches, as well as the renewal and removal of level crossings. North Sea Port will receive a further EUR 24.4 million for signalling technology and the electrification of track infrastructure in the Ghent port area, and the Port of Ostend EUR 1.5 million for targeted safety measures. A further EUR 67.2 million will be invested in the network, of which EUR 21.5 million is for adapting the infrastructure to accommodate 750 m long freight trains, also with a view to military mobility, and EUR 15.6 million for the renewal of the Mol – Neerpelt line on the border with the Netherlands. The remaining EUR 30.1 million is primarily earmarked for passenger rail transport, of which EUR 27.5 million is for battery-powered trains on non-electrified lines.
