Editing Zuid-Willemsvaart (section)

=== The nineteenth century ===
The canal created new possibilities for development of the poor towns on the sandy grounds of North Brabant. In [[Helmond]] a [[textile manufacturing]] industry was developed. In [[Veghel]] the harbor attracted several industries. In Weert many [[fir]] were planted after transport to Maastricht and Liège became feasible. In many villages of North-Brabant it also became profitable to rear cattle for customers outside the province.{{sfn|Kops|1828|p=110}}

One of the first activities on the canal was a regular service for passengers and freight between 's-Hertogenbosch and Maastricht. The journey took two days, with an overnight stay in Weert.