11 October 2024 marks a monumental moment for maritime infrastructure as King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands and King Philippe of Belgium officially inaugurated the Nieuwe Sluis Terneuzen (New Lock Terneuzen). From aboard another vessel, the two Kings signalled for the first ship - a bulk carrier - to sail through the lock, marking the completion of this ambitious construction project.
The Nieuwe Sluis is more than just a structural achievement; it enhances access from the Westerschelde to the Ghent-Terneuzen Canal, promising to deliver a substantial economic boost to both the Netherlands and Belgium. This lock is set to play a pivotal role in European inland shipping, complementing ongoing efforts to strengthen the connections between the Seine and Scheldt rivers.
The construction of the Nieuwe Sluis started in 2017. It was built within the existing complex in Terneuzen, where the Middensluis, which has been in use since 1910, made way for the New Lock. During the construction, approximately 11.5 million cubic metres of soil were excavated, which is equivalent to about 100 times the volume of De Kuip Stadium in Rotterdam. During the 7-year-long construction, DEME acted as a key player within the SASSEVAART consortium. Our diverse fleet and capabilities in dredging, marine infrastructure, and environmental remediation were crucial to the success of the project.
The New Lock is 427 metres long, 55 metres wide, and 16.44 metres deep, and it can now accommodate vessels up to 366 metres long and with a width of 9 metres.
The successful completion of the Nieuwe Sluis Terneuzen represents a significant advancement in maritime logistics and international trade, and we’d like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all the teams involved for their dedication and collaboration in bringing this landmark project to fruition.
