How do you use the Groene Loper, Luc?

My first encounter

‘We have lived here for more than 35 years, so we know both the burdens of construction and the benefits of today. I used to work in Heerlen, so I always drove onto the N2. During the construction work, there were many diversions,’ says Luc. "When the tunnel was finished, we had to get used to the silence. You could hear the birds again. Nowadays, I come here regularly with my grandchildren.‘ He is now retired. As a Christmas tradition, he sends hand-drawn cards to the neighbourhood. These also feature drawings of the Groene Loper. ’I turned it into a walking route and a neighbour came up with the idea of following it together with local residents." No sooner said than done. ‘Twenty of us walked along the Groene Loper. It was great fun. It brings you closer together.’

My choices

Luc also enjoys walking with his grandchildren. ‘We go to MAMA's terrace and the children play in the playground.’ During such walks, Luc often chooses the pavement. ‘The middle path here in Scharn is a bit sloping. And children on scooters can go quite fast. So we walk on the pavement.’ Sometimes it is more convenient for his visitors to choose the tunnel. ‘But you have to pay close attention. To the signage and your speed.’

What strikes me

The Green Carpet is used intensively, according to Luc. "What strikes me is that many motorists seem to think that all other road users should use the Flaneerpad and that they are the only ones allowed on the road. That bothers me, because that's not the case. It's not pleasant for cyclists to cycle on the road when they are being chased by cars. Fast cyclists are also allowed on the road. It's good that this is now being indicated more clearly.‘ The new residents mean there will be more road users. ’When the railway closure becomes a reality, this will also have an effect on the Groene Loper. It will then be good if we adapt our behaviour."

My tip

‘I think it's good that the Groene Loper is encouraging people to cycle more. You can follow a very beautiful route all the way to Vaeshartelt. That would be my tip.’ As an architect, Luc naturally also pays attention to the new buildings. ‘This area is very interesting because of the many developments from the Second World War to the present day.’ Luc likes to talk about this during his walk. ‘The rich history is right here for the taking.’

My favourite moment

Luc can't easily name a favourite moment. ‘But it's great to live here. The tunnel has already shown its added value because it's much quieter.’ Still, Luc also strikes a critical note: "We shouldn't think of this as a park. The Groene Loper is popular. You can see that from the fact that schools and a court want to come here, but I don't think that was the intention of the urban planners at the time. It's good to keep an eye on the balance. So I'm glad that measures are being taken to ensure that all users of the Groene Loper can use it."