The idea of a waterway to serve the cities of Hainaut, linking them ultimately with Antwerp, was first put forward during the reign of Philip the Good, Duke of Burgundy (1396–1467).

In 1436, an edict authorised the modification and deepening of the Senne river, though the project turned out to be more expensive than previously thought.

The authorities of Mechelen, the sole city allowed to tax water transport on the Senne, protested extensively at the prospect of the construction of a parallel canal, and the project was abandoned.

In 1531, Emperor Charles V authorised the construction of a canal linking Charleroi and Willebroek, though work did not begin immediately.

These basins were filled in the late 19th century, at the opening of Brussels' new port located outside the Pentagon (city centre).

The canal is of paramount importance for the supply of oil to Brussels, which typically represents 30–50% of annual traffic.