Glencore Brunswick Mine

Project Overview

In 2014, we signed an Asset Works and Purchase Agreement to acquire and remove assets from the former Process Plant Area of the Brunswick Mine Site. Located on 1,030 hectares in northeastern New Brunswick, the mine had closed in 2013 after decades of producing zinc, lead, copper, and silver. The Brunswick Mine demolition came with significant logistical and environmental challenges.

Scope of Work in the Brunswick Mine Demolition

Heavy snowfall during the 2014–2015 winter impacted transport and access. As a result, our team carried out extensive snow clearing to maintain safety and continue demolition. We identified hazardous materials, disconnected utilities, and prepared all structures for removal. In addition, we cleaned and dismantled nine above-ground storage tanks previously used for diesel, bunker C, gasoline, and waste oil.

Decommissioning and Mechanical Demolition

After completing decommissioning, we used high-reach and conventional excavators to dismantle various building types and industrial structures. This approach allowed us to remove assets safely while keeping site operations efficient and under control.

Controlled Drop of Taller Structures

We applied engineered controlled-drop methods to bring down taller structures that exceeded equipment reach. For example, when conventional takedowns were not practical, we introduced explosive demolition techniques to ensure precision and safety.

Explosive Demolition of the Headframe Building

One of the most complex tasks in the Brunswick Mine demolition was the explosive removal of the 257-foot reinforced concrete headframe above Shaft No. 3. Our team followed a detailed Blast Plan that preserved the shaft’s concrete cap and protected surrounding infrastructure. As a result, we completed the takedown without safety issues.

Project Completion and Outcomes

We finished the Brunswick Mine demolition safely and on schedule. This success reflected our ability to handle high-risk industrial decommissioning through both mechanical and explosive methods—even in extreme weather and complex site conditions.