Entrance Sint-Anna tunnel/pedestrian tunnel

From 1931 to 1933, the pedestrian tunnel was constructed from the right bank to the left bank. In 1933, the accompanying access and ventilation towers were built on both sides of the Scheldt, designed by Van Averbeke. The towers, in a modernist style, are identical. They are made of concrete and clad with, among other materials, yellow brick and natural stone. In terms of style, they are very different from the Art Nouveau buildings for which Van Averbeke was known. The ventilation buildings for the Waaslandtunnel were also designed by Van Averbeke.

As the city architect, Van Averbeke had a lot of work lined up. “He has an enormous number of buildings attributed to his name. The entire range of buildings necessary for a city to function had to be designed by him and his team. As city master builder, he certainly delivered some masterpieces. For example, in 1927, he was involved in laying the foundation for the concept of the Boerentoren. The final realization was done in collaboration with architects Jos Smolderen and Jan Van Hoenacker.”

GVA - Gazet van Antwerpen