New class V lock at Obourg

The locks at Obourg, Viesville, Gosselies and Marchienne-au-Pont require gauging on the Charleroi-Brussels and Centre canals in the Hainaut region. These are among the major European waterways with a focus on developing river transport. The Obourg lock is the first link in the chain.

The project involves the construction of a CEMT Va lock (2,000 tonnes) at these four sites alongside newly renovated existing locks. The locks have overall dimensions of 112.5×12.5 m, with drops ranging from 5 m to 7.5 m. The Obourg lock will be unique in that it will be longer, at 149 metres, in order to achieve a similar size to the locks located further downstream.
Several related structures will also be built, including crossing structures, embankment walls, outer harbours, technical buildings and control buildings for the locks …

This project will improve navigation and reduce the environmental impact of transport. It will also significantly enhance the living environment for users and create dedicated spaces for cyclists, pedestrians and walkers.

A website: https://quatre-ecluses.be/ has been created as part of the environmental impact studies. This website features several 3D renderings and provides an overview of the projects.

Photos © JL DERU / photo-daylight.com & © Artes