Combination Mobilis and Croonwolter&dros build new lock and renovate existing one

Lock to Twente (L2T) is responsible for pre-financing, design and construction. The contract also includes the 27-year maintenance of the new lock.

Preparatory work to carry out the expansion began 2017, with construction starting in January 2018. Meanwhile, ships have been passing through the new lock since April 2020. The second lock chamber at Eefde reduces waiting times for ships and makes access to the Twente canals less vulnerable, during maintenance and breakdowns. The new lock is suitable for class Va vessels, the largest type of ship allowed after the Twente canals are widened. We speak with Paul Schaap, DBM Manager of the EPC L2T (from TBI) and Robbert Visser, Project Manager on behalf of client Rijkswaterstaat.

Smart choices make Eefde lock safe and future-proof

"The new lock chamber has now been completed and is in use. In the second phase we are now in, the old lock will be renovated," Paul opens the conversation. Robbert adds: "The final work at the new lock consists of completing the buildings and putting new sheet pile walls in the outer harbors." In the tender, L2T made good use of innovative and sustainable choices. Robbert explains: "For example, a segment door was offered, which is not cheaper in construction than two point doors, but is a lot cheaper in the maintenance phase." Paul: "This segment door is unique in this size for the Netherlands. It is located on the canal side of the lock complex and lies flat on the bottom when the lock is opened. From that position it rotates upwards when the lock is closed. This door also still works at very high water pressure, for example, if the other door of the lock loses its water retaining function due to damage. This can cause large differences in the water level. In the event of a calamity in the lock, this functionality contributes to safety." The new lock chamber is designed to be energy-neutral. Robbert: "The technical installations will be energy efficient. The energy still needed to operate the lock chamber will soon be generated on the lock complex with solar panels."

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