The project – involving Colas Alterra as a consortium member – is intended to enhance the water discharge capacity of the Sió Channel. The corresponding contract came into force on 19 September 2019, opening the way for the scheme ordered by the general Directorate of Water Management. Valued at 12.3 billion HUF, the high-priority project had been assigned to the consortium uniting Strabag and Colas Alterra.

Managing the water level of Lake Balaton calls for the reconstruction of the facilities located in Siófok and the regulation of the Sió Channel’s bed. To achieve this key objective, the new water discharge structures will have a flow capacity of 120 m³/s. The core of the assignment concerns the complete overhaul of three major water engineering structures, beginning with the Balatonkiliti sluice gate that will serve the adjustability of the lake’s water level. Subsequently, works are set to continue with the renovation of the two upstream structures: first off, the regulating lock gate, followed by the nearby boating gate (both in Siófok), which will ensure waterborne traffic between Lake Balaton and the Sió Channel. Simultaneously with reconstructing the upstream structures, a new operational building will also be erected.

Beyond fixing up the three major water engineering structures, consortium members were tasked with several other tasks. In order to ensure navigation on the Sió Channel, the bed must be regulated on over 40 kilometres, which involves dredging works, fixing the adjacent slopes, relocating some of the embankments, and mechanical stabilisation. In addition, the job entails the renovation of multiple reinforced concrete structures across the channel. By successfully implementing the project, set to be concluded by late 2022, Colas Alterra. hopes to support developments regarding one of Hungary’s key natural assets.