The joint Custom Plan provides for the strengthening and raising of the primary flood defense (dike) and the construction of an additional custom barrier with logistical quays. This not only meets current water safety standards but also better protects the companies in the port area and the hinterland against flooding.
European subsidy for Limburg inland ports
The Custom Plan is largely made possible by a European subsidy obtained. The European Union provides a multi-million subsidy for the further development of three Limburg inland ports: the Willem-Alexanderhaven in Roermond, the Chemelot port in Stein, and the Beatrixhaven in Maastricht. In total, there are four projects with a total investment of €76.3 million, of which Europe contributes €37.4 million. The subsidy was granted based on an application to the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF, Rhombus Upside I and II). This subsidy aims to support projects that improve the transport and logistics network within the European Union.
Deputy Theuns: “The granted European subsidy has made the Custom Plan feasible and enables us to realize our innovative plans and sustainability opportunities. The joint trust of the government in this project will certainly give the port area in Roermond a boost.”
“We are building a stronger dike while simultaneously reducing trucks on our roads and increasing transport by water. By connecting safety in Roermond with our other inland ports, we make logistics more sustainable, offer new opportunities to entrepreneurs, and strengthen our local economy,” adds deputy Jasper Kuntzelaers.
Necessary dike reinforcement
The current barrier is a fragmented collection of hard constructions and no longer meets the requirements. Although a new dike was built after the flooding periods in the 1990s, it has become clear that it is not high and strong enough. By raising, strengthening, and connecting the barrier to the high ground near the N280, the area will be better protected against flooding. This is important as, besides prolonged drought, we increasingly face higher water levels of the Meuse River.
Economic strengthening
The necessary dike improvement is used to simultaneously strengthen the port logistically. By constructing the barrier as a logistical barrier, new quays are created that provide both flood safety and suitability for loading and unloading. This makes an important contribution to sustainability.
Shore power and quieter port
An integral part of the plans is the investment in shore power facilities. This allows ships to switch off their engines while docked. This results in less CO₂ and nitrogen emissions, less noise pollution, and a more pleasant living environment for the immediate surroundings of the port.
Intensive cooperation and financing
With the signing of the realization agreement, the next phase of the project has started. This agreement sets out the roles, responsibilities, and financial obligations of all parties involved.
Planning
After approval of the project decision by the Province of Limburg, construction work will begin. Port of Roermond, together with Waterschap Limburg, will carry out the realization. The project is scheduled for completion in mid-2027.