Helmond Lock on the Zuid-Willemsvaart has been reopened for all shipping since yesterday, Thursday, 20 November 2025, late afternoon. Good news for inland shipping: the work finished one day earlier than initially announced.
Helmond Lock had been closed since 29 September 2025. After draining the lock, the old gates were removed. The four new gates were transported over water by pontoon and installed with a crane.
In addition, the cables of the gate drive were replaced and minor concrete repair work was carried out. The work was completed with tests to safely put the lock back into operation.
Spare Gates
Contractor Van den Biggelaar Grond en Waterbouw carried out the work. Along with the four new gates installed, they also produced two spare gates. These can be used for future maintenance. This prevents the lock from being closed for extended periods.
Maintenance of Waterways in Southern Netherlands
We continuously work on accessible waterways, water quality, safety, and ecological values around the water. Together with others, we ensure the management and maintenance of waterways in Southern Netherlands and the construction, maintenance, and design of waterworks, banks, and floodplains.
We always seek common ground among many requirements, wishes, and interests. Nevertheless, disruptions and disturbances cannot always be avoided. We minimize inconvenience as much as possible and communicate about it in time.
