Redevelopment of Burgemeester Magneestraat

How do you transform a busy village street into a safe, green and future-ready public space? Burgemeester Magneestraat is a key route through the heart of Bergeijk. Over the years, the quality of the road surfaces and green infrastructure had deteriorated. In addition, the existing street layout no longer met the diverse functions of the street, including the need for safe traffic movement and an attractive environment for residents and visitors. Its wide carriageway and limited planting gave the street a hard, heavily paved appearance. The ageing combined sewer system also required replacement.

The redevelopment needed to meet the needs of a diverse range of users, including residents, local businesses and all types of road user. Commissioned by the Municipality of Bergeijk, Iv worked with a stakeholder advisory group representing these parties to develop an integrated design for the new layout. A key requirement was to provide sufficient space for pedestrians and cyclists, as well as safe crossing points and adequate parking. The scheme also needed to create a greener, more climate-resilient streetscape, which presented additional challenges within the limited space available.

Working closely with the stakeholders, Iv developed a design that delivers both functional and qualitative improvements. The street now has a clearly defined layout, with ample space for cyclists, wider footways, sufficient parking and new seating and cycle parking facilities. High-quality paving, additional planting and street furniture enhance the street’s function as an attractive public space.

The ageing sewer system has been replaced with a separate drainage system. Rainwater is partly infiltrated into the ground, partly discharged to surface water and partly used to irrigate trees. The landscape plan retains the existing trees and introduces diverse planting in larger planting beds. The result is a safe, climate-resilient and attractive street for everyone.