Opening up the track bundle at Zandeken
There is currently no northern connection of the track bund at Zandeken towards the railway line between Zelzate and Terneuzen. Making a northern connection will create more rail space in the Netherlands and Belgium. Companies at the Kluizendok can then also collaborate with Dutch companies and combine their loads. This also makes rail transport accessible to smaller companies.
The railway between Zelzate and Sluiskil (West bank)
The railway line on the west bank of the Ghent-Terneuzen Canal passes through Zelzate and Sas van Gent, past Sluiskil and then to Terneuzen. Capacity on this railway line is now limited. All trains, including those to Dutch companies on the east side, have to go via the west side. On most of the railway line, there is only one track for both directions. So in case of a breakdown, there is no other route. In addition, maximum speed on the railway in Zeeuws-Vlaanderen is now 30 km/h. There are many unprotected level crossings where drivers have to drive by sight. Sometimes they have to switch points manually. We are studying how to improve and relieve this part of the track so that the rail network becomes stronger and more reliable.
The Sluiskil Bridge
All trains towards the Dutch companies on the east bank, for example to the Axelse Vlakte or Terneuzen, must now pass over the Sluiskil Bridge. The Sluiskil Bridge itself is becoming an increasing bottleneck, as shipping traffic will increase significantly on the canal through the New Lock in Terneuzen. As a result, the bridge will be open more often and freight trains will have to wait longer. Also, before entering the bridge, trains from the Axelse Vlakte now always have to turn around (‘make headway’) in Terneuzen, causing delays.
