De Vlaamse Waterweg nv and Van Moer Logistics further tackle the noise nuisance of the container terminal in Grobbendonk
De Vlaamse Waterweg nv and Van Moer Logistics have signed an agreement to invest together in the reduction of noise pollution from the Dennie Lockefeer Container Terminal (DLCT) along the Albert Canal in Grobbendonk. "The agreement will lead to the construction of an embankment with a noise barrier, one of the measures designed to remedy the noise problem at the terminal," says Flemish Minister for Mobility and Public Works Lydia Peeters.
The noise problems at the Dennie Lockefeer Container Terminal (DLCT) mean that the environmental permit prohibits the loading and unloading of ships and the use of the Gottwald crane between 7pm and 7am as well as on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. DLCT and De Vlaamse Waterweg nv have now decided to invest in reducing the noise nuisance so that a broader operation of the terminal will be possible. DLCT is currently replacing the Gottwald crane with a gantry crane and is investing in the refurbishment of the terminal terrain, which will reduce the terminal's noise production. With the financial support of DLCT, the Vlaamse Waterweg nv will construct an embankment with a noise barrier on the other side of the Albert Canal. In consultation with the contractor, the Vlaamse Waterweg nv is planning to start the works, which will take about six months, as soon as possible.
Lydia Peeters, Flemish Minister of Mobility and Public Works, underlines the importance of the agreement reached. "The DLCT terminal is an important link for the logistics chain in the region and for container transport on the Albert Canal in particular. The ambition of De Vlaamse Waterweg and DLCT fit perfectly in my policy to increase the share of inland navigation in freight transport in the interest of mobility and climate. With the construction of an embankment with a noise barrier, we are ensuring further economic development with measures that should benefit the quality of life in the surrounding area."
Jo Van Moer, CEO of Van Moer Logistics, chairman Frieda Brepoels and managing director Chris Danckaerts of De Vlaamse Waterweg nv: "With our agreement on these investments, we are entering into a sustainable alliance to have the terminal operate in optimal conditions with respect for the environment and local residents. Thanks to these interventions, we hope to optimise the terminal activities within the foreseeable future. Local residents can count on proper information and communication."
Marianne Verhaert, mayor of Grobbendonk reacts with pleasure: "Since the takeover of the terminal by Van Moer Logistics there is finally a clear turnaround whereby constructive consultation with both the residents and the municipality is being used. Ever since Van Moer Logistics has been established in our municipality, efforts have also been made to address the complaints and problems, such as the construction of the noise barrier. This agreement with De Vlaamse Waterweg is an additional important step to guarantee the investments with an eye for our residents. The terminal is also an added value for our region: we are at a standstill every day on the E313, thanks to the terminal we keep a lot of containers off the road."
