Pre-construction works start this month to prepare the site, with the actual demolition works expected to take place from September into spring 2027.
This will involve removing elements such as roof coverings, fascias, soffits, windows and doors by hand, stockpiling and sorting materials from the demolition, crushing stone and other inert materials for future reuse, snagging and site decommissioning.
Clearing the site and starting development of Leale’s Yard is one of the States ‘super priorities’ for this political term.
‘Since purchasing Leale’s Yard last year, significant progress has been made in the background to get us to where we are today, ready to start demolition of the many structures on the site,’ said Deputy Yvonne Burford, vice-president of the Policy & Resources Committee.
‘We are ensuring that the demolition process is done in such a way that it minimises noise, dust and general disturbance to residents and businesses in the area, and that it is sympathetic to wildlife.
'Additionally, there will be a focus on management of materials, such as stockpiling good quality granite stone, quoins and lintels and crushing other stone and inert material for future reuse.
‘We will continue to update islanders on this exciting project as it progresses.’
Rok Limited has been awarded the contract for the work and will use machinery to dismantle structures in a controlled manner, continuously monitoring dust, noise and vibration levels. Buildings will be damped down with water throughout the process to prevent dust spreading into the air.
At the same time, investigations will be carried out to prepare for a further stage of demolition, which would involve removal of building slabs, any contaminated soil, below ground obstructions, and capping of utilities to provide a flat and safe site that is ready for development.
Ecological surveys are also being done to make sure that site clearance is carried out in an environmentally considerate way, with ecologists due to be on site for demolition.
Experts in master planning are also expected to be appointed soon following a competitive tender process that took place earlier this year.
This will set out a clear plan for how Leale’s Yard and nearby sites owned by the Guernsey Housing Association can be developed cohesively, including consideration of the overall layout, community spaces and transport links.
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