Civil Engineering
Dry Docks Antwerp: Renovation of Maritime Heritage
The Dry Docks site is a highly valuable witness to the history and development of the Port of Antwerp, and by extension, the city itself. The site emerged during the construction of the Kattendijk Dock around 1860, marking the first major northern expansion of the port. However, the existing docks are outdated and in need of restoration.
Sweco is leading the transformation of the Dry Docks site – a major renovation where heritage and innovation reinforce each other. This project demonstrates how a place can be revitalised with respect for its past. The site is not only being restored but also repurposed into a vibrant maritime experience hub. Thus, Antwerp’s heritage continues to grow, with space for education, recreation, and events that connect generations.
- Client
- AG Vespa
- Location
- Port of Antwerp
- Expertise
- Project management, site supervision, structural engineering, tendering and awarding, guidance and technology of dock gate mechanisms
- Partners
- Heritage specialist Origin and contractor Monument Vandekerckhove
Heritage with a Vision for Tomorrow
What makes this project truly special is the unique blend of respect for the past and a forward-looking vision. The Dry Docks site is not only being carefully restored but also reimagined as a lively, educational, and interactive maritime experience. With the new Port Experience Centre of the province, the site gains a future-oriented purpose. Sustainability is key: original elements are preserved as much as possible, allowing the authentic soul of the place to remain tangible in every stone and structure.
From Study to Site Supervision
Sweco is responsible for preparing the tender dossier and supervising the execution of the project. Our expertise focuses mainly on the technical aspects of the historic infrastructure: underground channels, mechanical systems, bollards, and dock gates. Our partner Origin supports the heritage-related aspects closely tied to this technology. They also oversee the general restoration of Dry Docks 1, 2, 3, 4, and 6, with Dry Dock 6 later serving as an event dock.
Dry Docks as an Experience Site
The master plan for the Dry Docks site transforms this unique location along the Scheldt quays into a large public maritime experience site in the Eilandje district. The first phase began with the restoration of five dry docks. In 2025, the iconic pump house and buildings for youth activities will follow. The restoration works will take 1.5 years and are expected to be completed in spring 2026.
- Dry Docks 1, 2, and 3: the gates of these permanently wet docks will be removed, while everything above the waterline will be carefully restored. The preserved natural stone will be thoroughly cleaned and repaired.
- Dry Dock 4: will remain operational for the restoration of ships from the maritime collection and will receive a new dock gate.
- Dry Dock 6: will be restored for future use as an event dock, equipped with a permanent safety barrier.
Landscaping around the Port Experience Centre
Sweco is also responsible for the landscaping around the future Port Experience Centre, commissioned by AG Vespa. In this first phase, the area around Dock 1, the Experience Centre, and the General Workshops North (AWN1 and 2) will be redeveloped. The iconic Pump House, located between AWN2 and the centre, will undergo a full restoration and be atmospherically lit in the evenings – a nod to the rich maritime past and an invitation to experience the site after dark.
