ASBESTOS will be removed from the former bus depot ahead of the demolition of the site.

At its meeting on Monday, the council’s cabinet will be asked to give the green light to delegating authority for the award of contract for the implementation of the proposed demolition and asbestos removal works for the site, located close to Brian Bevan Island, together with the ancillary costs.

A report to cabinet says the development of the Southern Gateway is a ‘key regeneration priority’ of the council.

It adds: “Access to the former bus depot site in the Southern Gateway site, once demolished and cleared will provide the opportunity to develop 306 new residential units with 20 per cent (61 units) being affordable units.

“In addition, it will provide the opportunity to deliver replacement car parking, the possibility of a café and an enhanced setting for St James Church and St James Business Centre – a new urban square.

“At this stage, the method of delivery of the proposed future development of the bus depot site is to be determined.

“Both the demolition works and removal of internal asbestos are viewed as time critical requirements due to significant security and health and safety risks associated with the retention of the unoccupied facility, mitigation of which currently necessitates a 24-7 manned security presence.”

The cabinet is recommended to, subject to the final tender evaluation and compliance with the costs set out in the part two report, which will be discussed in private, authorise the director of growth to negotiate and award the bus depot demolition contract, the bus depot asbestos removal contract, and any ancillary agreements required to progress the demolition of the bus depot, in consultation with the director of law and governance, the deputy chief executive and director of corporate services, and the leader of the council.

Members are also recommended to approve the costs set out in the part two report.