The Province of North Holland has decided not to extend the Koopvaarders Lock in Den Helder.
In 2022, the province already chose not to combine the current renovation of the lock with an extension. First, it had to be clear whether the extension was really necessary for the port in Den Helder and for freight transport to other municipalities along the North Holland Canal. Research now shows that the investment required for the extension and the adjustment of the North Holland Canal is much greater than what it currently yields.
The Koopvaarders Lock is located in Den Helder and connects the North Holland Canal with the port of Den Helder, the Wadden Sea, and the North Sea. The lock is important for both commercial shipping and recreational boating. There are approximately 420 passages of commercial shipping and 1,200 of recreational boating each year.
Results of the Research
The province has spoken with entrepreneurs, industry organizations, and municipalities and looked at the possible economic benefits of an extension. Previous studies from 2018 and 2019 regarding the future of freight transport over water were also considered. There has also been consultation with a selection of companies located around the North Holland Canal.
The research shows a number of things:
• Some users of the lock would like an extension.
• At the same time, the lock is only used a few times a day.
• Discussions with municipalities along the North Holland Canal such as Den Helder, Schagen, Hollands Kroon, Alkmaar, Zaanstad, and Purmerend indicate that no new large freight flows are expected that would necessitate an extension.
In addition, the costs of the extension are estimated at 30 million euros. Based on the required depth and maneuverability of ships, the North Holland Canal as a whole is not suitable for larger ships of 115 meters. Any adjustment of the canal would entail a much larger investment.
Future Developments
The province is monitoring developments in the ports and on the waterways. If there is a reason to reconsider the topic in the future, for example from the Maritime Cluster in Den Helder or other plans, the project can be taken up again. The expectation is that this will be addressed again at the earliest in 2030.