About us
| Holcim Switzerland: building trust |
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A new start Gravel has been processed in the small community of Kirchberg in eastern Switzerland since 1963, but when the former owner tried to obtain approval for a new excavation site, the residents of Kirchberg objected, no longer prepared to put up with dozens of heavy trucks driving through the village every week. In 1994, Holcim Switzerland took over the plant and immediately set about improving relations with the local authorities and the residents. The company began by building a private access road that avoided the heart of the village, which reduced traffic levels and shortened the trucks’ route by about three kilometers, bringing considerable annual savings to Holcim and its clients. |
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Transforming the site As the old plant did not meet the latest technical requirements and could not produce the amount, or quality, of product expected by Holcim’s clients, the management decided to combine the plant with its two other local gravel works. Holcim worked closely with all interested groups, holding information events and public meetings with local authorities and residents, and liaising with environmental groups to ensure that the reserves, once exhausted, would be cultivated to support flora and fauna. Holcim Switzerland’s reputation, built up over decades, played a huge part in ensuring this process was conducted successfully in a spirit of openness and trust. In 2001, the old plant was closed, and following numerous discussions, the publication of an environmental compatibility report and detailed planning, work to dismantle the old facility and construct the new one began. The completed plant blends into the surrounding countryside. Although more than 30 meters tall, the plant has been sunk approximately 10 meters into the ground, and barely stands out against the gently rolling hills. The shape of the roof and the color scheme also match the surrounding farm buildings, making the gravel works remarkably discreet from all vantage points – a fact borne out by the complete absence of objections from residents to the plan. |
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A long-term future Following its inauguration, the new plant has been producing around 400,000 tonnes of consistently high-quality gravel every year. Clients will benefit from a wide product range being offered from a single location, with significant silo capacity ensuring availability at all times. But even after Holcim’s new gravel works is completed and began operations, the close collaboration with the local community will not end. Indeed, as a new era of gravel excavation in Kirchberg begins, the dialog and cooperation are set to continue for many years to come. |
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