The Netherlands, Bruinisse

Krammer locks

Revitalizing critical water infrastructure

Rijkswaterstaat is currently carrying out extensive maintenance work, including at the Krammer Locks complex. After 35 years of loyal service, the complex is due for a major overhaul. Our project ensures that this vital part of the Dutch Delta Works will operate more safely, efficiently, and sustainably in the years to come.

Project overview

The renovation contract was awarded to the ZEEKR joint venture, led by BESIX and including partners BESIX Unitec, Croonwolter&dros, Demako, Iemants, and Bosch Rexroth. The renovation of the Krammer locks will modernize and make the complex future-proof, faster, more sustainable, and fish-friendly. The project involves the renovation of drive motors, lock gates, mechanical systems, and electrical installations, and will make the lock operable remotely. The most remarkable features of the project are the new freshwater-saltwater separation using air bubbles in the push barge locks, and the addition of a flow-through system

Scope of works

Within the ZEEKR consortium, BESIX Unitec and Croonwolter&dros - operating under the EnVastKrammersluizen (EVK) partnership - are responsible for all electrical and industrial automation systems. This includes replacing nearly all electrical installations and the entire power supply. A key goal is to significantly reduce energy consumption and modernize the control systems, enabling remote operation from the Neeltje Jans control centre.

Key highlights

Strategic importance: Over 60,000 vessels pass through the Krammer locks annually, making them a crucial link in international maritime logistics.
Part of the Delta Works: The locks are integrated into the Philipsdam, one of the 13 Delta Works designed to protect the Netherlands from the sea.
Aging infrastructure: Built in 1987, the locks are now undergoing their first major renovation after 35 years of service.
Smart planning: ZEEKR’s proposal includes robust planning, minimal disruption to users, and a strong focus on sustainability.
National priority: This project is part of a broader Rijkswaterstaat initiative to modernize infrastructure built in the 1960s and 80s, which has endured decades of increasingly heavy use.