Posted on September 17, 2025
DEME has signed a contract1 for reinforcement of the Lekdijk in the Netherlands. For this project, DEME is working together with Heijmans and GMB in the Lekensemble consortium to reinforce the dike between Wijk bij Duurstede and Amerongen (WAM). Commissioned by Hoogheemraadschap De Stichtse Rijnlanden, this vital project is part of the Dutch Flood Protection Program and aims to safeguard hundreds of thousands of residents from high water.
The Lekdijk, stretching 55 kilometers between Amerongen and Schoonhoven, is undergoing a major reinforcement to ensure long-term safety and flood protection for large parts of central and western Netherlands. Known as Project Sterke Lekdijk, the initiative is divided into six sub-projects, with the Lek Ensemble consortium playing a key role in the 11-kilometer stretch between Wijk bij Duurstede and Amerongen.
The WAM section will be upgraded with a focus on safety, livability, nature, and recreation and its redesign will align with the development of the Lunenburgerwaard, creating space for walking, cycling, and nature conservation.
The Lekensemble consortium was selected for its innovative approach to dike reinforcement, bringing together expertise in civil, water, and road engineering. These innovations help lower the costs of dike reinforcement by introducing new approaches in engineering and processes. Its methods include, for example, the use of lightweight plastic sheet piles that reduce CO₂ emissions and speed up installation. Having previously collaborated on the Gorinchem-Waardenburg (GoWa) dike reinforcement project, which is also part of the national plan, the consortium is now ready to apply its combined expertise to this new challenge.
Jaap van der Weele, General Manager DEME Environmental, the Netherlands, said: “The contract and start of the implementation phase of the WAM project, following five years of design and planning, presents DEME with a valuable opportunity to showcase our expertise in flood protection and environmental challenges. I am extremely proud of our people and the collaboration with our partners in this project. Together, we are making a meaningful and sustainable impact towards a safer Netherlands.”
Works are expected to begin this month, with completion expected in 2027.
About DEME
DEME (Euronext Brussels: DEME) is a leading contractor in the fields of offshore energy, environmental remediation, dredging, and marine infrastructure. DEME also engages in concessions activities in offshore wind, marine infrastructure, green hydrogen, and deep-sea mineral harvesting. The company can build on nearly 150 years of experience and is a front-runner in innovation and new technologies. DEME’s vision is to work towards a sustainable future by offering solutions for global challenges: climate change, a growing population and urbanization, increasing maritime trade, and environmental issues. With a team of more than 5,800 highly skilled professionals and one of the most advanced fleets in the world, DEME is well-positioned to tackle even the most complex projects. DEME realized a turnover of 4.1 billion euros with an EBITDA of 764 million euros in 2024. For more information, please visit www.deme-group.com.
Contact
Media relations Investor relations
Frederic Dryhoel Carl Vanden Bussche
dryhoel.frederic@deme-group.com vanden.bussche.carl@deme-group.com
+32 473 86 31 91 +32 498 90 61 13
