The year 2026 will will be significant for the Oosterweel Link. As a partner in multiple consortiums, BESIX continues to play an important role in this large-scale mobility project, which will complete the Antwerp Ring and improve traffic flow across the region.
Scheldt Tunnel: moving towards a single continuous structure
The Scheldt Tunnel is one of the key components of the Oosterweel Link. In 2025, all eight tunnel elements were successfully immersed, placing the entire structure in its final position.
This spring, TM COTU will complete the closure joint: the concrete connection that permanently links the final two elements. Once this joint is finished, the tunnel will no longer consist of individual parts but will form one continuous structure.
From autumn onwards, the focus will shift to installation and outfitting works, including:
- dismantling the end bulkheads
- constructing the internal roadway
- installing technical systems such as ventilation, lighting and safety equipment
- reconstructing the Scheldt embankments
The Scheldt Tunnel will form a vital link between the city and the port. Cyclists will be able to use it from 2028, with motor vehicle traffic following in 2030.
Canal Tunnels: construction phase begins
Significant progress will also be made on the Canal Tunnels in 2026. These tunnels comprise four stacked tubes extending from the Amerikadok and running beneath the Albert Canal. Together with the Scheldt Tunnel and the Oosterweel Interchange, they form the missing link that will complete the Antwerp Ring Road.
In 2025, a large dry construction site was created, supported by 4.7 kilometres of diaphragm walls to stabilise the future excavation pit. In 2026, TM ROCO will continue digging the pit and install the struts. The first concrete pour is planned before the summer. In the following years, the tunnel tubes will gradually take shape.
Bypass and lowered Ring
In the coming years, the iconic Merksem viaduct in eastern Antwerp will disappear, making way for a lowered and largely covered Ring. To keep traffic flowing during the transition, TM ROCO is building a five‑kilometre temporary motorway: the Bypass.
The first section, heading towards the Netherlands, has been open since October 2025. Meanwhile, initial demolition works on the viaduct have begun. The remaining sections of the Bypass are progressing on schedule. The extended stretch towards the Netherlands will open in summer 2026, followed by the first section towards Ghent/Brussels before the end of the year. This part is being constructed in an area where the viaduct has already been partially removed. Foundation works are advancing well, with concrete structures and finishing to follow in the autumn.
In addition, 2026 will see the opening of the first permanent component of the Oosterweel Link at the Antwerp East interchange: a short tunnel of around 70 metres, designed to separate traffic flows more effectively and improve circulation.
TM Ocotech: the driving force behind the technical systems
At the end of 2025, TM Ocotech – which includes BESIX Unitec – also began its first visible on‑site activities. The team plays a crucial behind‑the‑scenes role: preparing, installing and later fine‑tuning all technical systems that ensure the tunnels operate safely and reliably.
At the Antwerp East interchange, the first works are already visible, such as the installation of lighting poles. As the pace of the Oosterweel works increases, the involvement of TM Ocotech will continue to grow. Their expertise will become increasingly important as the project moves towards commissioning.
A collective effort for tomorrow’s mobility
As a partner within TM COTU, TM ROCO and Ocotech, BESIX Group will continue in 2026 to contribute to major milestones on this extensive project. Thanks to the dedication of all teams involved, a smoother, safer and future‑proof mobility system for the Antwerp region is coming ever closer.
TM COTU stands for Tijdelijke Maatschap Combinatie Oosterweeltunnel and is composed of BESIX, Stadsbader Contractors, DEME and Jan De Nul.
TM ROCO is made up of BESIX, BESIX Infra, Jan De Nul, Cordeel, DEME, DENYS, Van Laere, Franki Construct and Willemen Infra.
TM Ocotech consists of Equans, BESIX Unitec, Jacops and NV Deckx Elektromechanica.