 The port of Antwerp was an important strategic objective because Allied supply lines were heavily stretched and needed a deep @-@ sea port near the front lines . The British Second Army liberated Antwerp on September 6 , with help from the local resistance . Despite taking control of the city , the port was not accessible until the surrounding waters were safe for cargo ships . The Germans successfully denied access to the port until the Battle of the Scheldt completed in November . 
