Den Helder's Merchant Lock reopens early, boosting shipping efficiency in North Holland
Ships in Den Helder can now use the Merchant Lock again, five days ahead of schedule. The upgrade improves traffic flow and supports sustainable water transport, benefiting local businesses and commuters alike.
| Key Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Merchant Lock (Koopvaardersschutsluis), Den Helder, North Holland |
| Reopening Date | 30 March 2026 |
| Closure Period | 9 March 2026 – 29 March 2026 |
| Control Centre | De Langebalk, Heerhugowaard |
| Technical Upgrades | New cameras, cabling, and system testing |
| Bridges/Locks Managed | Over 35 bridges and locks now centrally operated |
| Contact for Queries | 0800 - 0200 600 (free) or via email |
| Real-Time Updates | vaarweginformatie.nl |
The Province of North Holland oversees the operation and maintenance of critical waterway infrastructure, including locks and bridges. By centralizing control, it aims to enhance efficiency, reduce delays, and promote sustainable transport alternatives like water freight.
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Merchant Lock Reopens Earlier for Shipping Traffic
The Merchant Lock (Koopvaardersschutsluis) in Den Helder is once again available for shipping traffic as of 30 March 2026. The work to connect the lock to the control centre of the Province of North Holland has been completed five days ahead of schedule.
From 30 March onwards, the obstruction on the Nieuwe Diep at the lock has been lifted, allowing ships to use the lock again.
The Merchant Lock had been closed to shipping traffic since 9 March. During this period, the Province connected the lock to the De Langebalk control centre in Heerhugowaard. While the work was underway, the lock could not be operated, forcing ships to use alternative routes.
Technical Modifications
Previously, the Merchant Lock was operated from the De Kooy support point in Den Helder, but it is now controlled from the Province’s control centre in Heerhugowaard. To enable this connection, the Province carried out various technical modifications, including the installation and adjustment of new cameras, the laying of new cabling, and extensive testing of the system.
Central Bridge and Lock Operation
The connection of the Merchant Lock is part of the programme for the central operation of bridges and locks. From the Weg- & Waterhuis De Langebalk in Heerhugowaard, the Province of North Holland now operates bridges and locks from a single central location. This allows for better coordination of operations and improves traffic flow for both road users and shipping traffic.
The Province promotes water transport as a sustainable alternative to road transport. With the connection of the Merchant Lock, more than 35 bridges and locks are now connected to the control centre.
Further Information
For questions about the work, (waterway) users and local residents can contact the Province of North Holland’s Service Point by calling 0800 - 0200 600 (free of charge) or by email. Updates on the work can also be followed via www.noord-holland.nl/centralebediening or the regional Facebook page @KopNoordHolland. Information about operating times or obstructions of bridges and locks can be found on www.vaarweginformatie.nl.
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