Urban mining: what if the past was the best foundation on which to build the future?

Urban mining: what if the past was the best foundation for building the future?

From steel to sustainability: the circular transformation of Metzeschmelz.

63 hectares between Esch-sur-Alzette and Schifflange

Located between Esch-sur-Alzette and Schifflange, the Metzeschmelz project is transforming a former Arcelor Mittal industrial wasteland of nearly 63 hectares into an iconic neighbourhood that combines sustainability and innovation. This development will accommodate around 10,000 residents and 7,000 employees, based on pillars such as functional and social diversity, sustainable mobility, the enhancement of natural spaces and the reuse of existing structures.

COBE, Urban Agency and LSC360: working together to reinvent the sustainable city

COBE, in partnership with Danish architects and urban planners Urban Agency and LSC360, won the competition to transform this former brownfield site into a pioneering neighbourhood in terms of the circular economy, sustainability and mobility. This partnership has successfully promoted ecological and practical ideas, reinventing urban space to meet contemporary challenges of sustainability and reuse of industrial sites. Indeed, the future Metzeschmelz is based on the concept of “Stadtfabrik”, a city in perpetual transformation that reuses elements of its industrial past to shape its future. This approach consists of preserving and reinventing certain existing structures, such as the old rolling mills, in order to create a dynamic neighbourhood that combines heritage and modernity. By incorporating sustainable and innovative solutions, the project aims to transform this no man’s land into a vibrant urban space, connected to its natural environment and adapted to future needs.

Agora, as project owner, is coordinating each stage of the project, while the project management of the deconstruction studies has been entrusted to a consortium of firms.

Comprising LSC360, Géoconseils, BIM-Y and SECO Luxembourg, this consortium brings together a wide range of expertise to ensure a rigorous approach to the technical and environmental challenges of the project. LSC360’s Environment & Sustainability division coordinates studies and procedures with the relevant authorities, while contributing its expertise in the circular economy to optimise the sustainability and positive impact of each stage of the project.

“The real success of this project is based on a collaborative approach and a shared vision.”

Pierre-Marc CAPITAINE, LSC360

Synergy between SECO, Géoconseils, LSC360 and BIM-Y for an exemplary circular project

One of the strengths of the Metzeschmelz project lies in its ambitious approach to the circular economy. The emphasis on reusing materials helps to reduce environmental impact while maximising the value of existing resources. At the same time, BIM modelling provides powerful collaborative tools for optimised and transparent management. This innovative strategy positions Metzeschmelz as a benchmark in industrial conversion.

“Making the reuse of materials a reality.” Camille COPPI, SECO Luxembourg

SECO Luxembourg is conducting an inventory of reusable materials and assessing the technical possibilities for their reuse within the project. Committed to a circular economy approach, the inspection agency is carrying out risk analyses of materials and equipment intended for a second life, thus ensuring their compliance with the requirements of ten-year civil liability insurers.

“Understanding and anticipating the interactions between water and the site.” Olivier WIESEMES, Géoconseils

Géoconseils, a member of the LSC Engineering Group, is responsible for water management during the deconstruction process. Faced with the Alzette alluvial aquifer and flooded galleries, in-depth analyses and 3D modelling are used to understand the interactions between surface and groundwater. This approach optimises water management during the deconstruction phase, taking into account all associated risks, such as groundwater contamination or infrastructure instability.

The Building division of LSC360, formerly Simon-Christiansen & Associés, is responsible for the renovation of old buildings and the management of complex industrial projects. By studying the potential for reusing existing materials, its experts carry out a technical feasibility analysis to determine the best deconstruction and reuse solutions. This process enables the design of sustainable projects, where each stage of deconstruction becomes an opportunity. The team also takes charge of construction management and site logistics.

BIM-Y is responsible for completely updating the site’s BIM model, an essential tool for optimising project management. This dynamic model will enable accurate monitoring of measurements and quantities used, while ensuring meticulous control of demolished materials. The BIM platform also offers a solution for reorganising and recycling site logistics, thus facilitating circular resource management.

As the conductor, Agora is working to transform Metzeschmelz into a model of sustainable and innovative industrial conversion. By involving citizens, it is shaping a project that reflects their values, reconciling ambitious vision with concrete reality.

“The reuse of existing resources on site is at the heart of our brownfield redevelopment strategy, enabling sustainable and economically efficient urban development.”

Yves BIWER, Agora