The calendar

From feasibility studies to commissioning, a major project comprises 5 main phases:

• Preliminary studies (EP) then Summary Preliminary Project (APS) confront the environmental and technical issues in order to gradually define (according to the logic "avoid-reduce-compensate") first a passage zone (1 to 3 km wide at EP level) then a reference route within a strip approximately 500 meters wide (at APS level) that meets the performance objectives of the infrastructure program; the studies define a provisional financial envelope. They are the basis of the inquiry prior to the declaration of public utility.
• Pre-project studies (AVP) decide on the infrastructure program and detail the main components of the project (structures and equipment). They feed into the Environmental Authorization procedure.
• Project studies (PRO) describe the works and work to be carried out in great detail. They lead to the drafting of business consultation files for carrying out the work.
• Preparatory work aim to release the rights of way (punctual deforestation, diversion of networks, etc.)
• Infrastructure works correspond to the concrete realization of the project.

The route of the Seine-Nord Europe Canal has been divided into 6 technical sectors, each responding to a precise timetable.

Infrastructure work will start in 2022 in sector 1 (Compiègne-Passel) and in 2024 and 2025 in sectors 2,3 and 4, locks and the Somme Canal Bridge. This construction phase concerns:

• operations of earthwork and the digging of the channel,
• the construction of works,
• the restoration of lanes,
• the phase of filling.