Long-awaited demolition works at a disused Aberdeen school are expected to start within a matter of weeks.
Kincorth Academy shut its doors in July and has since been routinely targeted by vandals and firebugs.
Police have been called to the building on a number of occasions in the hopes of catching people responsible for smashing windows and breaking down doors.
On one occasion, thugs damaged the school’s fire alarm system, keeping nearby residents awake by making its sirens blare for hours into the night.
During another, 40 fire extinguishers were stripped from the walls and were later discovered strewn across a nearby skate part.
Neighbours were initially told that demolition would begin in October in order for the land to be used for a council housing development.
But it was not until February that Aberdeen City Council publicly offered up a contract of the work to potential contractors.
Nine organisations put forward bids to carry out the demolition and last night the local authority confirmed that Glasgow-based firm George Beattie and Son was the selected contractor.
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It means work on the site is expected to begin “in the coming weeks”.
The contract includes the removal of all the existing buildings, link bridges, asbestos, drainage and stairs.
An Aberdeen City Council spokesman said: “Following a successful tendering process a contractor has been appointed and will be starting on the site in the coming weeks.”
Ward councillor Alex Nicoll said: “Although this news does indicate some progress, the time taken to get to this stage is ridiculous – particularly given that the council had years to prepare for the school closing.
“The building is now a complete eyesore and I’m sure those residents living nearby will be delighted when it is finally brought down.”
Both Kincorth and Torry academies closed in July and were replaced with the £47m Lochside Academy in Redmoss.
The site of Torry Academy is to become home to a £25m primary school and community centre, which will also include a housing office and cafe.
Ward councillor Alex Nicoll said: “Although this news does indicate some progress, the time taken to get to this stage is ridiculous – particularly given that the council had years to prepare for the school closing.
“The building is now a complete eyesore and I’m sure those residents living nearby will be delighted when it is finally brought down.”
