DEMOLITION work begins this week at Weston's town quarry.

The quarry closed at the end of August due to concerns with the buildings which housed studios and a cafe.

The stone crushing plant was deemed structurally unsound and beyond repair, meaning that it has got to go.

Ecologists have visited the site to determine the best times to start the demolition work, which has been licensed by Natural England. While bird nesting season is now over, it is still important to finish the work before reptile hibernation season starts next month.

Temporary bat boxes have been installed. Once the demolition is complete, permanent bat roosts will be constructed.

The team have also been busy carrying out a fingertip search to find and relocate Hazel Dormice who may be at risk.

Trees will also be pruned back to allow the machinery to reach the building. Extensive tree protection fencing is also in place to ensure trees are kept safe during the work. 

Speaking soon after the closure, Cllr Mike Solomon, North Somerset Council's executive member for culture and leisure, said: “Weston's Old Town Quarry is a significant asset in the town’s cultural offer. As such, we aim to do all we reasonably can to keep it available for current and future generations to enjoy.

"The demolition of the unsafe structure requires that the site is closed, and while that is happening, we’ll work with partners with the aim of securing a long-term future for this fantastic location.”

Cllr Solomon added: “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.” 

Contractors have measures in place to keep noise and disturbance to a minimum. Dust will also be controlled with regular damping down.  

Once all the works are complete, the site will be transferred to Weston-super-Mare Town Council, who have created a plan and investment package.