Posted on December 17, 2025
A milestone moment for the Scheldt Tunnel, and for the many people behind it. Today, the final of eight massive tunnel elements was successfully immersed beneath the Scheldt River, closing an extraordinary year on the Scheldt Tunnel project. With this last element carefully positioned between sections six and eight, one of the most delicate phases of the project was completed right on schedule. Each 160-meter-long, 60,000-ton tunnel element was positioned beneath the Scheldt with a tolerance of just 35 millimeters.
The past year has been defined by impressive transports, technically demanding immersion operations in a tidal river, and above all, close collaboration between hundreds of specialists. From engineers and marine crews to technicians, planners and pilots, every role mattered โ down to the millimeter.
This final immersion was made possible through strong teamwork between the contractor consortium TM COTU, including DEME, and client Lantis. Together, we are delivering a key link in the Oosterweel connection, taking another important step towards improved accessibility for Antwerp and its port.
A shared effort, witnessed by thousands along the riverbanks from the first to the last tunnel element, and a moment of shared pride as the Scheldt Tunnel moves steadily closer to completion. The tunnel is set to open to cyclists in 2028, with car traffic following in 2030.
