Monday March 7th 2016
Work has begun to demolish 64 council homes on Newbyres Crescent and Gore Avenue in Gorebridge.
The demolition excavator was on site last week to tackle the first property, 18A Newbyres Crescent.
Residents had to be rehoused after elevated levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) from old mine workings were found in some of the properties in 2014.
A spokesman for Midlothian Council said: “This is a landmark day in what has been a very long process.
“We’d again like to thank residents involved for their patience and co-operation in what has been an extremely difficult time. The residents’ safety and welfare has always been our top priority.
“Our aim now is to rebuild new homes on the site with gas membranes.”
Costs of the demolition and rebuilding work are estimated to be around £12 million.
The demolition, by Reigart Contracts, is expected to take up to four weeks. The majority of the waste generated, such as the brick, timber and plastic, will all be recycled.
Rebuilding the homes will help meet the social housing need in the local area, incorporated into Phase 2 of the Council’s Social Housing Programme.
Prior to redevelopment of the site, further appropriately designed investigation, ground gas monitoring and risk assessment will take place.
Appropriately designed, installed and verified gas defence systems will be included within the building structures and within the site itself to avoid a risk of CO2 exposure.
All affected households have been supported by the council to find suitable accommodation.
In addition, those required to be rehoused are being offered the opportunity to return to a new build development once completed. The next development in Gorebridge on Stobhill Road is due to be completed in 2017.
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