Closing the ringway (R1) in Antwerp will increase the pressure on and possibly destroy internationally protected areas (SAC’s and SPA’s). The damage to these areas should be (in order of preference) be avoided, minimalised, restored and/or compensated. This study will evaluate the impact of different alignments, gives recommendations concerning mitigation and looks for compensation. Elements like habitat loss, disturbance, barrier effects, corridors and road mortality will be estimated and combined in a total impact analysis.