Construction work has begun on the new bridge over the River Lys between Wevelgem and Lauwe in Flanders. Through this project, De Vlaamse Waterweg (DVW) is removing a major bottleneck on the Lys within the Seine-Scheldt network. With a clearance height of just 5 metres, the existing bridge is the lowest along the entire Lys corridor in Flanders and currently restricts the passage of large inland vessels. The new arch bridge, spanning 111 metres, will make it possible to widen the waterway and ensure smooth passage for vessels carrying up to 4,500 tonnes of cargo, with three layers of containers. This will further strengthen the inland waterway connection between the North Sea ports, the economic regions along the Lys and the Paris region.
The bridge replacement project is also accompanied by a broader redevelopment of the surrounding area. Safer cycling connections, new public spaces, water infiltration measures and the enhancement of ecological corridors will contribute to a high-quality and sustainable development of the Lys riverbanks.
According to the schedule, the works will last four years. The project, designed by TRACTEBEL, is being delivered by De Vlaamse Waterweg nv in collaboration with Aquafin, the City of Menen and the Municipality of Wevelgem. The European Union is contributing to the funding as part of the development of the cross-border Seine-Scheldt inland waterway network.
