Built at the end of the 13th century over the Scheldt River, Pont des Trous in Tournai is one of the most prominent heritages of Belgian medieval architecture.
Five years ago, the authorities outlined a plan to renovate the Scheldt riverbanks; the last phase of the plan included broadening the main arch of the bridge to allow the passage of 3000 t vessels.
Our team at the Dutch office worked hand in hand with our local agent CGK Maritime and contractor BAM Galère to protect the renewed structure, and its historical past, from river traffic. We supplied 268 V Fenders (SX-P 400, G 2.7), also known as Arch Fenders, with UHMW-PE pads and 44 Cone Fender Systems (SPC 600, G 2.9).
Due the very old, bricked quay wall where no fenders can be mounted on, the 312 fenders are placed on two floating caissons, each 130 m long and 300 t of weight, that will serve as a vessel guide to protect Pont des Trous from the possible impact of 3000 t vessels passing by.
We at ShibataFenderTeam Group are proud to have contributed to the protection of this historic monument and thank CGK Maritime and BAM Galère for putting their trust in us.
