Waiora House demolition underway
Work to demolish the asbestos-contaminated Waiora House is underway, with an excavator being moved on to the site this week and the iron roofing set to be removed.
The demolition comes after the discovery of asbestos in building materials used in its construction. Although the building was considered stable, there was concern for community safety if it was left in that state for any length of time.
Taupō District Council owns the building and decided on its demolition after consultation with its tenants.
Facilities manager Garreth Robinson said work began in March with the stripping of internal non-contaminated walls. This month the excavator would be brought in to commence more heavy duty work, including the removal of the top sheet of the roof.
“Following this, we will isolate the materials contaminated with asbestos and use a negative pressure system to safely remove it,” he said.
Mr Robinson said once the asbestos had been removed, internal frames and material and concrete flooring would be demolished. Contaminated soil would also be disposed of.
“We have experienced contractors removing the asbestos to create a safe area our community can pass by without concern,” he said.
He said unfortunately there would be some noise disturbance to neighbours while heavy machinery was in use, but this would only be during work hours Monday to Friday.
“We hope to have the project completed and the site cleared by the end of June, so hopefully it will be of minimal inconvenience to neighbours and passers-by,” he said.