Netherlands' Rozenburg Lock to undergo major renovation

The Port of Rotterdam Authority has signed a contract with Vialis to carry out the second phase of a major renovation of the Rozenburg Lock, a key piece of infrastructure that handles approximately 20,000 vessels per year. The project will enable the lock to be operated remotely and is scheduled for completion in 2027.

The second phase of the renovation will be a complete overhaul of the entire lock complex, including the lock chamber, gates, bridges, and control systems.

The lock will be closed for six months in 2026 to allow for the construction work. The first phase, which involved renovating the northern fender piles, was completed in 2024. Vialis will also be responsible for long-term maintenance of the facility.

The lock connects the Calandkanaal and the Hartelkanaal for inland shipping. Port of Rotterdam COO Berte Simons noted that various parts of the lock, which was introduced in 1971, are approaching the end of their technical service life, making renewal necessary.

Upon completion of the renovation, the lock will be operated remotely by the Harbour Master’s Division from the Rotterdam Traffic Center, ending the current practice of on-site operation by lock keepers.