Demolition begins for Weston-super-Mare quarry stone crushing plant
The site was condemned over safety concerns back in the summer
The first step in the rejuvenation of Weston-Super-Mare's town quarry begins this week, with the demolition of the condemned quarry stone crushing plant.
The site was closed at the end of August over safety concerns, with surveyors deeming it beyond repair.
It's hoped the town council will take on the site when all of the works are completed.
North Somerset Council say the demolition of the site is specifically timed to minimise disturbance for the wildlife at the site, as bird nesting season is now over.
They add demolition, which has been licenced by Natural England, must be complete before the reptile hibernation season starts next month.
Ecologists have also been to the site ahead of the demolition of the site, which has seen temporary bat boxes installed until work is complete, which will then see permanent bat roosts constructed.
There are also Hazel Dormice and a fingertip search has been undertaken to relocate any who would have been at risk during the demolition.
Permission has also been granted to prune back trees where required to enable the demolition machinery to reach the building. Extensive tree protection fencing is also in place to ensure trees are kept safe during the work.
Cllr Mike Solomon, North Somerset Council's executive member for culture and leisure, said: “I’m pleased that we’ve been able to progress the demolition and are working to protect the wildlife and environment at the quarry.
“Demolition of this building will reduce the number of safety concerns at the site and enable more work to be undertaken to ensure the quarry’s long-term future as a much-loved cultural gem for the town.”
North Somerset Council say there will be some noise and large vehicles at the quarry during the demolition, but have reassured locals that contractors have measures in place to keep disturbance to a minimum.
They add dust will also be controlled with regular damping down.
Once the works are complete, they say Weston-super-Mare Town Council has agreed a vision and investment package for the location, with the transfer into public ownership giving greater control to local communities to shape its future.