The chimneys at the Collombey-Muraz refinery have been demolished, opening up new prospects for this exceptional site

Two industrial chimneys at the former TAMOIL refinery in Collombey-Muraz were demolished by controlled demolition at 2.00 pm today. This operation marked the final and most spectacular stage in the dismantling of the refinery, and a major milestone in the site’s redevelopment process.

Dating from 1963, the two chimneys, each 100 metres high, weighed a total of around 4,000 tonnes of concrete and brick. The rubble will be recycled into cement and aggregate, to be reused in new construction projects. 

The dismantling of the refinery paves the way for a new calling for this exceptional site, one of the largest single industrial sites in the whole of Switzerland. The closing of the refinery in 2015 sent shockwaves through the region. However, Tamoil decided to retain the site and, from 2019 onwards, proactively undertook steps in cooperation with the authorities to rehabilitate and redevelop the entire site.

The Valais State Council has recognised the former refinery’s economic activity zone as a strategic reserve of cantonal importance. The site will retain its industrial purpose, with a transition towards a lighter and cleaner industry, based on new technologies and new energy sources. Tamoil proposes to develop a forward-looking business hub there, a place where people enjoy coming to work, with a strong emphasis on green spaces and sustainable transport.

For a long time, the refinery was a source of energy for the region and the whole country, contributing to their development. The demolition of the chimneys brings an important industrial chapter to a close, but it also opens up the way for a new start. Tamoil’s ambition is that in the few years’ time, the site may support local families and contribute to the region’s economic development, just as the refinery did for so many years.

For any questions, please contact:
Marie-Hélène Hancock
Westside Communications
079 204 21 22
mh2@wscomms.ch