The construction of the New Lock in Terneuzen is in full swing. The contractor is using existing and proven techniques to build this lock. During construction, safety comes first! In addition, the surrounding area and road and shipping traffic must be hindered as little as possible by the construction work. The present Middensluis will remain in use until the autumn of 2021, after which it will disappear. Once completed, in 2023 the first ship will pass through one of the largest locks in the world. In terms of dimensions, the New Lock is comparable to the locks in IJmuiden, Antwerp and Panama.
The lock complex at Terneuzen is the gateway to the ports of Terneuzen and Ghent and provides a shipping link between the Netherlands, Belgium and France. The New Lock will provide better access and a smoother flow of the increasing shipping traffic, for both inland and seagoing vessels. Flanders and the Netherlands can both count on a significant economic boost from the arrival of the New Lock and the resulting improved infrastructure. After the completion of the New Lock the Canal Zone will be ready for the future!