Brugge–Zeebrugge The New Belgian Harbour on the North Sea

Abstract

The history and prosperity of the Belgian city of Bruges has always been dependent on the sea. The growth of sea-borne traffic and the increasing size of vessels in recent years demanded new facilities to enable Belgium to exploit the natural advantages arising from its location. The construction of such port facilities during the last decade has employed the latest techniques in design, construction and environmental impact assessments. Contracts for the port development were drawn up to provide limits for quality control, timing and general but strict pricing, while enabling amendments during the course of the project. Now nearing completion, the major dredging and construction works have suffered no delays and will provide the most modern facilities in Zeebrugge, the port of the future.