Since 10 November, the team has been working on site to replace mainly the existing ebb and flood doors. With these works, BESIX is not only helping this lock stand the test of time, but also adding a a new chapter to the history of this marine monument.
The lock's upstream ebb doors have long stood up to the forces of the sea but are in need of a renovation.
And then there is the location of the bridge basement. The doors have to be lifted out along a bascule bridge. Under the legs that allow that bridge to swing open is a basement, perilously close to the location of the lifting crane. Here, the team could count on Hans Verbraken, Project Manager at BED.
As the project is located in the centre of Ostend, things can get busy there sometimes. A number of traffic flows around the dock, such as the buses from ‘De Lijn’ and the pedestrian passage, will therefore be diverted during the works. The Mercator dock is also completely blocked. However, maritime traffic can only be stopped there during the winter period, so the team is working to a tight schedule.
The works should be completed by February 2024.