Work on the Seine-Nord Europe Canal will now be able to continue. An initial decree granting environmental authorisation for Sector 1 (the Compiègne–Passel section, in the Oise department) was published in April 2021.

The decree covering sectors 2 to 6, up to Aubencheul-au-Bac in the Nord department, was signed on 9 August 2024 by the prefects of the Nord, Pas-de-Calais, Somme and Oise departments.

The first decree enabled work to begin on the development of quays, the new bridges over the Oise, the widening of the river and the diversion of its course. Construction of the Montmacq lock is due to begin in late 2024.

With this new decree, work between the Oise Valley and the Dunkirk–Scheldt Canal will commence. “This new environmental authorisation will enable us to put the works contracts out to tender and notify contractors, an important step in making tangible progress on the project. It will also allow us to continue with environmental improvement works and commence preliminary work to clear the right-of-way. Initial works will be able to begin, including, in particular, the construction of work quays to facilitate river logistics for the project, road diversions and preparatory work on the locks…”, states the Société du Canal Seine-Nord Europe.

It should be noted that the public inquiry took place in March 2024, resulting in a favourable opinion published on 3 May 2024 by the inquiry commission. This decree follows two years of scrutiny by government departments, after consultation with all relevant parties. The Seine-Nord Europe Canal is scheduled to enter service by 2030.

Source: NPI 03 September 2024