An assessment carried out after roof slates were dislodged by high winds has revealed structural issues with the rear, lower section of the building.

It has been agreed that the best course of action is to demolish this section of the building with work due to get underway as early as this week.

Unfortunately, as some elements of the work will require to be undertaken by hand, the works may take a number of weeks. In the interest of public safety, Chapel Lane will require to remain closed during this period.

The demolition will not impact upon the front section of the building facing the High Street and will not adversely impact proposals to redevelop the building into six new homes as part of North Ayrshire Council’s ambitious housing programme.

The six amenity properties will be a mix of one and two-bedroom homes with redevelopment work currently scheduled to get under way later this year.