25 tonnes of metal already removed as site moves towards regeneration
The dismantling of the former oil storage tanks at San Luċjan, Birżebbuġa is now underway, marking a major new phase in the transformation of the former industrial site.
The site clearance project, entrusted to Petromal, will pave the way for the sustainable innovation hub, pledged by the Government.
Following the completion of an extensive cleaning operation earlier this year, works have progressed to the physical dismantling of the 12 tanks which were previously used for the storage of heavy fuel oil. One tank weighing 25 tonnes has already been dismantled, with the remaining structures to be removed sequentially over the coming months.
The operation follows the removal of approximately 1,200 cubic metres of oily waste sludge from the tanks during the cleaning phase. A further extensive operation has been carried out on the network of pipework across the facility, with each section systematically drained, cleaned and dismantled. Around 10,000 litres of residual oil have been recovered from the pipework.
Minister for Energy, the Environment and the Regeneration of the Grand Harbour Miriam Dalli, together with Petromal Chairman Ing. James Camenzuli and Birżebbuġa Mayor Scott Camilleri visited the ongoing works, where she was briefed on the different phases of the decommissioning process and the preparations for the site’s future regeneration.
“We are now seeing the physical transformation of a site which, for decades, was associated with the storage of heavy fuel oil. Our objective is not simply to remove obsolete infrastructure, but to reclaim this area and give it a new purpose that delivers environmental, social and economic value for Birżebbuġa and the wider community in the Southern Region,” Minister Dalli said.
The dismantling is a complex operation which must be carried out carefully.
The dismantling of the tanks is expected to continue until around the end of March 2027. Works will also include the careful removal of the tank bases, testing of the underlying ground, and the dismantling of the former pump house and associated structures. Subject to the results of the environmental testing, the overall decommissioning works are expected to be completed in 2027.
The works are progressing as Government develops the next chapter for the San Luċjan site, following the conclusion of the second phase of public consultation on its future regeneration.
The vision for the area includes education, innovation and technology, together with cultural, recreational and entertainment use, complemented by publicly accessible green open spaces and family-oriented facilities.
Photos: MEER
