The Port of Antwerp and terminal operator PSA Antwerp have unveiled plans for the deepening of the quay wall of the port's Europa container terminal to allow access for larger ships.
The current quay wall will be completely demolished and replaced by a new one. After completion of the works, the container terminal will be able to receive ships with a greater draught.
The current maximum draught for vessels that can berth at the quay wall is 13.5 metres. The works will bring the depth of the quay wall in line with the maximum draught of about 16 metres at inlet.
In order to limit the operational impact, the works will take place in three phases. This will allow a large part of the terminal to remain in service at all times, while the rest of the capacity is diverted to PSA North Sea Terminal.
PSA Antwerp is responsible for the renovation of the layout of the adjacent apron, including new flooring, the largest container cranes and infrastructure for providing shore power.
The works will commence at the end of this year.
