Voies navigables de France is launching a preliminary consultation on the project to double the capacity of the Fontinettes lock at Arques in the Pas-de-Calais department, a strategic link in the development of the Seine-Scheldt network. This consultation gives residents, users and stakeholders the opportunity to find out more and contribute to the project, through a number of events, site visits and public meetings, until 24 November 2024.
The current lock, located on the Neufossé canal in the town of Arques in the Pas-de-Calais region and in service since 1967, is a key piece of infrastructure that is showing signs of ageing. The project involves the construction of a new structure on the right bank of the existing lock, which, once completed, will enable river traffic to be maintained while the current lock is being regenerated.
Fontinettes’ lock – Copyright : Maxime Berteloot@La Voix du Nord
Ultimately, the two locks will contribute to the smooth flow of river traffic through the Dunkerque-Port, which is set to grow considerably thanks to the development of the Seine-Scheldt network and national and European strategies for low-carbon mobility. The project, estimated to cost €200 million, will be co-financed by the French government (Préfecture de la région Hauts-de-France et du Nord), the Hauts-de-France Region and the European Union as part of the Seine-Scheldt network.
