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Herbosch-Kiere is helping shape the future of Antwerp’s Scheldt quays
At the southern Scheldt quays in Antwerp, Herbosch-Kiere has started work on a challenging new water infrastructure project. Commissioned by De Vlaamse Waterweg nv, we are responsible for the first phase of the works at Blue Gate Antwerp, a key location where the Scheldt, urban development and business activity come together.
Over the coming months, we will be working on the riverbanks and flood defence system across three zones between the Hobokense Polder and the area around Q8 at Petroleumkaai. The existing riverbanks will be structurally reinforced, while the flood defence system will be upgraded and raised. These measures will provide better protection for the surrounding area against high water levels on the Scheldt and help prepare it for the growing challenges of climate change and rising sea levels.
A comprehensive approach, from riverbank to flood defence
The works are part of the ongoing renewal of Antwerp’s Scheldt quays. The Scheldt Quays Masterplan covers more than seven kilometres, from Droogdokkeneiland to Blue Gate Antwerp. Over the coming years, existing quay walls and flood defence systems will be upgraded at various locations to provide the city with better protection against extreme water levels.
For Blue Gate Antwerp, the project has been divided into five zones. During this first phase, we are working on three of these zones. A combination of interventions will be carried out to improve the stability of the Scheldt riverbank and enhance flood protection for the surrounding area.
Where sufficient space is available, the riverbank profile will be regraded to create a gentler slope. This reduces the pressure on the riverbank and improves its stability. Where the available space is too limited for this approach, alternative technical solutions will be applied.
The existing flood defence system will also be upgraded. In zones 1 and 2, a new embankment will be constructed to the required Sigma flood protection level. It will be located approximately 8.5 metres inland from the existing river dike. The flood defence level will be raised by a net 75 centimetres, from approximately +8.5 m TAW to +9.25 m TAW.
In zone 3, we will install a new sheet pile wall directly behind the existing wall and closer to the Scheldt. The new sheet pile wall will extend approximately 2.05 metres above ground level and will partially continue into zone 2. This will ensure a seamless connection between the different flood defence structures along the site.
A technically challenging project
Working along a tidal river presents specific challenges. The combination of earthworks, riverbank stabilisation and flood defence structures requires thorough preparation and precise execution. By combining the various activities as much as possible within the same construction phases, we can organise the works efficiently while minimising their impact.
For Herbosch-Kiere, this project builds on our longstanding expertise in water infrastructure and civil engineering. The Scheldt has been a familiar working environment for our teams for more than a century. We have also contributed to the renewal and stabilisation of Antwerp’s Scheldt quays through previous projects in the area.
Building flood resilience
With the Blue Gate Antwerp project, we are once again contributing to the long-term protection of Antwerp against high water levels. At the same time, the works will help prepare this strategically important part of the city for future development.
Work on the first three zones started in August 2026 and is currently scheduled to continue until 2027. The total value of the project is €6.3 million.
“These works mark an important step in protecting Antwerp against flooding from the Scheldt. In this way, we are investing in a safe and sustainable future for the city.”
— Annick De Ridder, Flemish Minister for Mobility, Public Works, Ports and Sport
Images: De Vlaamse Waterweg