25 March 2026

Ringvaart Bridge successfully installed

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Last weekend, we reached an important milestone in the R4WO project: the new bridge over the Ringvaart was successfully installed in its final position. After months of preparation, the impressive steel structure was installed across the Ringvaart in several stages.

Precision work along the Ringvaart

The new bridge has been assembled over the past few months on a site next to the Ringvaart. Last weekend, we moved the structure step by step between the banks of Evergem and Ghent.

This was done using specialised transport equipment and pontoons on the water. First, part of the bridge was moved to the opposite side of the Ringvaart. The entire structure was then moved along both banks to the abutments and finally carefully positioned on its supports. 

A distinctive gateway to the Ghent port area

The new bridge is striking not only in its design but also in its size:

 

  • length: 106 metres
  • width: 55 metres
  • height: approximately 30 metres
  • weight of the steel structure: 2,600 tonnes

That makes the bridge about the size of a football pitch!

With three lanes in both directions, a cycle path with a green area and an 8-metre-wide eco-corridor, ‘our’ Ringvaart Bridge is a prime example of future-oriented mobility.

Pure craftsmanship

The striking pyramid shape — designed by architect Laurent Ney — makes the new Ringvaart Bridge a real eye-catcher! A team of engineers developed the bridge’s design. The Ghent-based steelworks Victor Buyck Steel Construction manufactured the various bridge components. Each one was transported by boat to the bank at the bridge’s final location for on-site assembly.

 “The bridge we are focusing on today is an impressive steel structure. But what makes it truly special is the way in which it was built. It is the result of an integrated approach in which design, engineering and construction were constantly coordinated.”

Dominique Valcke, CEO Stadsbader Group
 

A little more patience is needed for traffic crossing the bridge

Now that the bridge is in place, we are putting the finishing touches to it, including a concrete deck, an asphalt road surface, lighting, signage, road markings and landscaping. In the meantime, the temporary bypass on the old bridge remains in use for traffic on the R4. If everything goes according to plan, we will be able to hold a grand opening ceremony for the bridge this autumn!