In 2005, the Netherlands and Flanders decided to conduct a joint study into the accessibility of the Ghent-Terneuzen Canal Zone. Three possibilities emerged from this study, namely:
– the construction of a combination lock with dimensions of approximately 380 x 28 x 8.6 meters (lxwxh);
– the construction of a small sea lock of approximately 290 x 40 x 13.8 meters;
– the construction of a large sea lock.
The last and largest option, a new lock measuring 427 meters long, 55 meters wide and 16.44 meters deep, was preferred. These dimensions correspond to those of the new Panama Canal locks and ships of the size New Panamax can use them. The lock will be built on the lock site to the east of the West lock. The port of Ghent will be accessible for ships up to 150,000 tons or container ships with a capacity of 12,000 TEU.
According to the 2012 estimate, the construction required an investment of 930 million euros and the costs for maintenance for 30 years after commissioning are estimated at approximately 75 million euros. The Netherlands will contribute 141.9 million euros of the construction costs and Flanders the rest.