For DEME-Group
𖡡 Bocholt, Belgium
The most toxic and polluted site in Belgium: the former Arseenfabriek in Bocholt. It was founded in 1897 as Établissements d’Elecom. This chemical plant produced highly toxic arsenic, a compound derived from ore. Arsenic is used in pesticides and in the paint industry. The factory closed down in the 1970s and was eventually demolished in the 2000s.
The challenging soil remediation of this brownfield is a team effort of DEME, OVAM and Antea Group. Toxic soil will be enclosed into foil to prevent spillage to underground water reservoirs. Works should finalise by the end of 2025.
