From the top of the incinerator chimneys, a new perspective on the rebirth of these industrial complexes emerges. Once symbols of modernity, the Carrières and Dickson incinerators have been closed for decades due to the pollution problems they caused. As decontamination of the sites is costly, our proposal is in line with the need to enhance the value of these areas in keeping with their heritage.
These last examples of an industrial phase must be preserved in order to tell their story to future generations. Given the incinerators' primary vocation of waste management, extending the useful life of the buildings is in line with the intention of a new era in waste management: that of sustainable development and circular economy. Their proximity to former railroads, now biodiversity corridors, makes them evocative of a dialogue between industry and nature for the surrounding community.
The Carrières incinerator: A living industrial monument
Located in the Rosemont-La Petite-Patrie borough, on rue des Carrières near avenue Christophe-Colomb, this incinerator is a landmark for the community. It's also an important place where human and natural activities converge. This collision of values creates a rich environment, contrasting old and new uses. This spirit is reflected in the remains of the incinerator, where industrial flora has developed, recalling the tension between nature and building. Using intelligent intervention methods, the phytoremediation process gently decontaminates the site, while allowing nature to quietly reclaim its place in the garden and express itself through the structures formerly used by the incinerator. The freeing-up of interior space makes it an important location for the introduction of a new activity: scuba diving, a first of this calibre in Quebec.
The Dickson incinerator: Waste as an agent of the circular economy
Located in an industrial park, close to the intersection of avenue Souvigny and rue Dickson, the incinerator of the same name stands out almost unnoticed among the various buildings of the same calibre. The various neighborhoods in this area are disconnected from each other by the presence of the Métropolitaine, industrial and port activities. To strengthen the links between the various communities, the Dickson incinerator became a place of gathering, exchange and innovation.
As the structure is in a precarious state, the most important elements will be preserved, enabling the building to be converted for industrial use without destroying the spirit of the place. Its raw appearance evokes the life cycle of materials and the reuse of built heritage. Through its remains, the former incinerator houses an ecocenter, also acting as a catalyst for innovation in waste management. A meeting place enables the community to help each other and share their knowledge in this area, demonstrating their collective strength.
A new landscape
The intention is not to change the emblematic characteristics of these places, but to introduce a new context that fits in with their new phase of useful life. Through our proposals, these incinerators become vectors of change, demonstrating the possibilities open to us. The chimneys become not only a landmark in the city, but also a symbol of resilience.
It's time to revisit their burning flame for a second wind; that of a greener future, combining history, community and innovation.
Documentary sources
Latz, P., Ganser, K., & Trieb, M. (2016). Rust red: landscape park Duisburg-Nord. Hirmer.
Ville de Montréal - Cabinet de la mairesse et du comité exécutif. (2024, 12 septembre). La Ville de Montréal annonce la sauvegarde du Boisé Steinberg et l'acquisition d'un terrain pour la création d'un nouveau corridor vert au coeur de Mercier-Hochelaga-Maisonneuve. Cision.
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