West Dunbartonshire Council has agreed a revised approach to demolish 248 multi-storey flats in Bellsmyre after unexpectedly high levels of asbestos was discovered in the properties.

The new method, which has received approval from the Health and Safety Executive, will see platforms – known as "mast climbers" – erected around the buildings in order to allow contractors to safely remove the concrete surrounding the asbestos. Once this has been completed, enclosed scaffolding will be put in place to allow for the safe and appropriate removal of the asbestos.

As a result, costs for the work have increased by around £1.3m. It is still hoped that the work will be completed in time to allow for the construction of the new Our Lady and St Patrick's High School in March 2015.

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Councillor David McBride, Convener of Housing, explained: "We need to demolish these unwanted tower blocks using the safest possible methods for the local community and our 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've had to revise our approach accordingly.

"I'm pleased that our new approach has been endorsed by the HSE and that the demolition can still be undertaken safely in time for the site to be ready for the construction of the proposed new Our Lady and St Patrick's High School."

Councillor Lawrence O'Neill, Vice Convener of Housing, added: "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."

(JP/IT)