Exceptionally high levels of asbestos on Dumbarton contract drive up costs.
Special measures must be used to take down the 248 multi-storey flats at Bellsmyre, Dumbarton, which were found to have “unexpectedly high” levels of asbestos.
The method of demolition, which has been approved by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), has added an extra £1.3 million to the demolition bill.
A spokesman for West Dunbartonshire Council said this method is the safest for both workers and people living nearby, adding that the demolition will be completed in time to allow construction of the new Our Lady and St Patrick’s High School on the site, which is due to start in March.
Councillor David McBride, convener of housing, said: “We need to demolish these unwanted tower blocks using the safest possible methods for the local community and contractors.
“Our surveys revealed that the levels of asbestos were far beyond the normal content expected in buildings of this age and type and so we have had to revise our approach accordingly.”
Vice convener of housing, Councillor Lawrence O’Neill, said: “These blocks were not fit to provide our tenants with the modern standards they deserve and were rightly recommended for demolition.
“While the demolition cost is higher than expected, it will allow for the regeneration of a key council site and offer an exciting future to local community of Bellsmyre.”
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