Barcelona, January 20 – Construo, an Olot-based company, has secured the major asbestos removal contract for the Alfons XIII Palace at Fira de Barcelona. This significant project, with a tender budget approaching two million euros, involves the extraction of fiber cement from the roofs, downspouts, and gutters of the exhibition space, which is situated within the Montjuïc complex. The work precedes a major renovation of the fairground, scheduled to begin this year and conclude in 2029, coinciding with the centenary of the Universal Exposition.
Major Asbestos Removal Project in Catalonia
This initiative represents one of the largest asbestos removal projects in Catalonia, with the roof alone spanning approximately 13,000 square meters. The necessity for these works is underscored by the comprehensive rehabilitation and adaptation of the Alfons XIII Palace, which Fira de Barcelona is undertaking as part of the renovation of the Montjuïc Exhibition Palaces.
“Due to the global rehabilitation and adaptation of the Palau Alfons XIII promoted by Fira de Barcelona for the renovation of the Montjuïc Exhibition Palaces, it is necessary to carry out initial work consisting of the complete removal of those elements that contain asbestos, mainly found in the roofs and to a lesser extent inside the building,” states the tender documentation.
Construo’s Expertise in Asbestos Abatement
Construo, headquartered in Olot (Girona), possesses extensive experience in this specialized field. The company has been dedicated to asbestos removal since 2015. Recent projects include the replacement of the roof at one of the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona’s farm facilities and the dismantling and replacement of exterior asbestos-containing elements at the Serradell i Trabal building within Recinte Mundet for the Barcelona Provincial Council.
Currently, asbestos eradication constitutes approximately 50% of Construo’s business. The company notes that “in many cases, the removal of fiber cement roofs leads to the installation of new ones. As we also install roofs, we could say that asbestos removal generates 75% of our business.”
Competitive Bidding Process
The bidding process for this contract attracted several specialized companies. Construo competed against Control Demeter, a temporary joint venture (UTE) formed by Vilà Vila and Urba Complet, and another alliance comprising Hercal Diggers and Ferrolezama. Construo’s successful bid highlights its competitive edge and proven track record in complex asbestos removal operations.
Impact on Fira de Barcelona’s Renovation
The asbestos removal is a critical preliminary step for the ambitious renovation of the Montjuïc complex. The overall refurbishment aims to modernize the facilities and ensure the safety of visitors and workers, aligning with contemporary environmental and health standards. The completion of the renovation by 2029 will mark a significant milestone for Fira de Barcelona, enhancing its capacity to host major international events.
Regulatory Compliance and Safety
Asbestos removal projects are subject to stringent regulations due to the health risks associated with the material. Construo’s adherence to safety protocols and environmental guidelines is paramount to ensuring the safe and effective completion of the project. The company’s expertise in handling hazardous materials is a key factor in its selection for this high-profile contract.
Future Outlook for Construo
This contract further solidifies Construo’s position as a leading specialist in asbestos removal in Catalonia and beyond. The ongoing demand for such services, driven by aging infrastructure and evolving safety standards, suggests a continued positive outlook for the company’s growth and specialization in environmental remediation.
