Merksem Exit to Netherlands Closed Overnight for Oosterweel Works

The Merksem exit leading to the Netherlands on Antwerp's R1 ring road is closed overnight as construction crews prepare for the next phase of the Oosterweel connection. This closure is essential for opening two new segments of the temporary bypass, which is currently serving as a replacement for the demolished Merksem viaduct.

The Oosterweel connection project aims to create new tunnels and a sunken highway to permanently replace the aging viaduct. In the meantime, the temporary bypass is crucial infrastructure. To expedite its completion, the project's developer, Lantis, is undertaking significant work on the Antwerp ring road between Antwerpen-Noord and Antwerpen-Oost throughout June and July.

These works include asphalt paving, road marking adjustments, and modifications to traffic gantries. To minimize disruption to daily traffic, most of these activities are scheduled to occur during nighttime hours. However, several other planned nighttime closures will affect traffic in the coming weeks.

Specifically, the E313 connection to the R1 towards the Netherlands will be closed on the night of June 3-4. On June 25-26, the A12 from the Netherlands to the R1 towards Ghent and Brussels will be shut. Finally, on June 26-27, the R1 towards the Netherlands will be fully closed near the AFAS Dome between 1:30 AM and 3:15 AM. Local diversions will be in place for all closures. Additionally, during various periods, fewer lanes will be available on the R1 in both directions, though full closures will not be required for these instances. Road users are advised to plan their journeys carefully and follow signage.