Oosterweel Link Antwerp

Oosterweel connection contract management

The objectives of this project are to spread traffic around Antwerp for smoother traffic flow, tackle dangerous spots on the R1 and improve the quality of life in the Antwerp region.

The entire project is divided into several sub-projects: Left Bank, Scheldt Tunnel, Oosterweel Junction, R1 North and Canal Tunnels. The implementation of the first sub-project started in 2019 and the last sub-project is scheduled for completion in 2030.

The contract used for most of the sub-projects is the English NEC4 ECC. This type of contract is particularly well known in England because of its use in many public works and in the construction of various large projects such as the Olympic stadiums in London. The Oosterweel link is currently the largest project in the world to be carried out under an NEC contract.

Features of the NEC4 ECC contract include the principles of cooperation, clarity of the contract and flexibility in its application. The NEC contract makes use of a specific option whereby the Client and Contractor jointly determine a target price and divide the profits and losses at the end of the project.