MIN 702 (M+F): VHF channel changes in Antwerp and the Scheldt estuary
Published 19 December 2023
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Summary
This note relays information regarding the use of operating VHF channels for ships using the Kieldrecht lock at the port of Antwerp and/or the new lock at the port of Terneuzen, alongside the Scheldt River. Changes to some VHF operating channels in those areas will be implemented from 1 January 2024 and 1 October 2024 respectively.
1. Background
1.1 The below information was provided to IMO members on behalf of the Governments of the Kingdom of Belgium and the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
2. Kieldrecht lock
2.1 The operation channel for the Kieldrecht lock at the port of Antwerp will be altered from VHF voice channel 88 to VHF voice channel 1027 (27L).
2.2 This change will be implemented as from 1 January 2024.
2.3 Antwerp are strongly advised to update their VHF equipment accordingly before 1 January 2024.” (Circular Letter No. 4791)
3. Nieuwe Sluis Terneuzen
3.1 A new lock is being constructed at the port of Terneuzen alongside the Scheldt River (‘Nieuwe Sluis Terneuzen’), next to the existing two locks. The new lock is expected to be operational for all vessels from Q4 of 2024.
3.2 Due to high demand for operational use of frequencies in the area and the increased capacity of the new lock, VHF voice channel 1028 (28L) will be assigned to support its operation.
3.3 “Ship owners, operators and masters of ships passing through the Nieuwe Sluis Terneuzen are strongly advised to update their VHF equipment accordingly before 1 October 2024.” (Circular Letter No. 4791)
3.4 Without the ability to use the new simplex VHF voice channel 1028 (28L), ships will not be allowed to enter the new lock.
More information
Radio Spectrum & Technical Standards Unit
Maritime and Coastguard Agency
Bay 02/24
Spring Place
105 Commercial Road
Southampton
SO15 1EG
Telephone: +44 (0)203 81 7200
Email: navigationsafety@mcga.gov.uk
Website: www.gov.uk/mca
Please note that all addresses and telephone numbers are correct at time of publishing.