Upgrade of the Roeselare–Leie Canal connects economy, ecology and mobility
Sweco collaborates with De Vlaamse Waterweg nv under a framework agreement for the upgrade of the Roeselare–Leie Canal.
This project is part of the EU-funded Seine-Scheldt programme and focuses on three objectives: improving navigability to Class Va, strengthening water management, and achieving a sustainable modal shift from road to water.
- Client
- De Vlaamse Waterweg nv
- Location
- Roeselare–Leie
- Expertise
- Hydraulic engineering, Integrated Project Management (IPM), Programme management, Permitting, Ecology, Water modelling, BIM, Monitoring, Dashboards
Economic lifeline for West Flanders
The Roeselare–Leie Canal is a vital link in the Flemish economy. It serves a cluster of fifty industrial and logistics companies and more than four hundred hectares of water-related business parks. Each year, four million tonnes of goods are transported via this waterway, accounting for around four thousand vessel movements.
The upgrade will allow larger Class Va vessels to carry more cargo per trip. This means fewer trucks on the road, lower transport costs and a more reliable logistics chain. The societal impact is equally significant: less congestion, improved air quality and a direct contribution to the climate targets of Flanders and Europe.
In addition, the canal will be made climate-resilient with measures against drought, peak discharge and water quality issues. Ecological enhancement and recreational connections are also part of the upgrade. In Roeselare, we are redesigning the Kop van de Vaart to meet the needs of modern inland navigation, combined with a major upgrade of the urban context.
Hydraulic engineering, programme management and digital innovation
Sweco provides technical and administrative support for infrastructure projects such as hydraulic works, roads, sewers, civil structures, steel constructions and electromechanics. Our assignment covers the entire process: from design and engineering to project and programme management, permits, ecology and water modelling.
Digital innovation runs as a common thread throughout the project. We use BIM models, data-driven monitoring and real-time water quality measurements (blue-green algae) to manage the canal intelligently. Project dashboards keep all information central and up to date, ensuring transparency and traceability. These digital tools enable better coordination of complex designs, risk control and faster, well-founded decision-making.
A crucial factor in the success of this extensive project is the effective involvement of all stakeholders. In recent years, we developed an overarching project plan that consolidates various interests, risks and responsibilities. This plan serves as the guideline for the assignment and is regularly updated and shared with all parties, ensuring alignment and continuity. We make sure stakeholder engagement plays a strong role not only in planning but also during execution – from consultation to decision-making – so the project is delivered on schedule and within set parameters.
Our assignment revolves around three key projects:
- New lock in Ooigem
The current lock is a bottleneck. A second lock will ensure smooth passage for Class Va vessels and reduce waiting times. - Redesign of the canal head
The canal head will undergo a major facelift combining logistics, urban renewal and recreation. - Programme control in IPM structure
The full upgrade is a complex fifteen-year programme. Sweco manages this through Integrated Project Management (IPM) with risk management, BIM and data-driven dashboards for maximum transparency and control.
Technical feat for Class Va inland navigation
Upgrading to Class Va means the canal will accommodate larger inland vessels up to about 110 metres long, 11.4 metres wide and with a payload of 2,000 to 3,000 tonnes. These ships can carry two to three times more cargo than Class IV vessels, delivering significant efficiency gains: fewer vessel movements, lower transport costs and a strong reduction in trucks on the road.
To enable this upgrade, major works are required. The canal will be deepened and widened at several locations. Bridges along the route will be raised and, where necessary, completely replaced to allow container shipping. Worn quay walls will be renovated or replaced, including foundation reinforcement and bank protection. One of the most complex components is the construction of a second lock in Ooigem, next to the existing one, to reduce waiting times and ensure continuity. This lock will feature modern electromechanical installations and be prepared for intensive use.
Waterway in full development
The project combines logistical strength with ecological and societal added value. Nature-friendly measures are integrated into the design to enhance biodiversity and make the water system future-proof. These ambitions are supported by studies on water management, ecosystem services and climate proofing.
Opportunities for synergy are coordinated with stakeholders through overarching studies on recreation, heritage and experience. These studies form the basis for the master plan, which identifies all potential synergies and collaborations with stakeholders.
The upgrade strengthens West Flanders’ logistical position, creates jobs and contributes to the climate targets of Flanders and Europe. Moreover, the canal increases climate resilience and ecological value, making it an investment in both economy and quality of life.
The schedule is ambitious but feasible. Works on the Ooigem lock will start by 2029, followed by the redesign of the Kop van de Vaart. The full upgrade will be carried out in phases over approximately fifteen years.
