Merksem (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Google Maps failed to update the new Oosterweel bypass in Antwerp for 5 days, causing traffic jams at Merksem. Lantis’ Laure Stuck confirmed Waze and TomTom updated correctly.
As VRT News reported, Google Maps has not recognised the new Oosterweel bypass in Antwerp for the past 5 days. Drivers using the app still saw the ring road between the AFAS Dome and Antwerp North as closed.
Laure Stuck from Lantis, the agency in charge of the city’s major road projects, said the bypass had opened as a temporary new highway. However, the change had not yet appeared on Google Maps.
“Many drivers had to take the Merksem exit or take an even longer detour,”
says Stuck.
What caused Google Maps to miss Antwerp’s Oosterweel bypass for 5 days?
According to officials, the incorrect directions caused problems for motorists heading toward the Netherlands. The system showed no alternative routes, which led many drivers to take the Merksem exit by mistake. This created heavy traffic and long delays in the area. Stuck said the congestion was expected because outdated navigation misled drivers.
Lantis, the agency in charge of Antwerp’s major road projects, always informs navigation systems when new roads open.
“We know that many drivers rely on systems like Google Maps. That’s why we give them an overview of the upcoming work well in advance,”
explains Stuck.
“They then receive an update once the work is completed.”
This time, Google Maps was slower to update.
“Waze and TomTom users were able to use the bypass without any problems, but apparently, it took five days for the information to appear in Google Maps’ systems. Communication with some navigation systems is smooth, with others, it’s a bit slower.”
Since this afternoon, Oct 29, 2025, Google Maps has been directing drivers along the bypass toward the Netherlands. The update is expected to reduce traffic congestion at exits such as Merksem, which had been overwhelmed by drivers following old directions.
The Oosterweel Link is a significant roadway construction project in Antwerp that has been in the works since 1996. It will complete Antwerp’s ring road and help facilitate traffic through the port and nearby areas. Lantis is the organisation taking charge of the project and overseeing the construction of the feasible canal tunnels and other major development works from January 2017 to December 2030. In September 2024, a temporary diversion was established to enable traffic movement during construction triaging, which would proceed.
