Neighbours vent anger Demolition witnesses sought
WITNESSES to the destruction of a much loved Queenslander in Edge Hill are being asked to provide statements to council officers as part of an investigation.
The property, owned by Bill Burdett, was demolished without the council’s approval last month.
Mr Burdett had previously been given permission to move the house to 1 Fleming St, but it was instead knocked down early on the morning of April 9, shocking neighbours.
The demolition followed a hard fought campaign by residents to save the home, which was located in a “character area”.
Workplace Health and Safety Queensland also investigated the incident and later confirmed asbestos had been found in the rubble.
This week a Cairns Regional Council spokeswoman said “further information FLATTENED: A house that was demolished on the corner of Fleming St and Forest Ave in Edge Hill. would be made available once formal proceedings commenced”.
She also said all asbestos containing material had been removed from the site “to ensure public safety”.
The Cairns Post also understands residents surrounding No.23 have been asked to supply witness statements for the proceedings and have been told to immediately report any signs of development at the site.
Resident Cheryl Britton said she hoped whoever was responsible was punished.
“We drive past every day and it’s a constant reminder of a beautiful home that was there and is now just a blank slate with bars and fencing around it,” she said. “I hope the council makes an example.”
Mr Burdett declined to comment when contacted by the Cairns Post, however he has previously denied the house contained asbestos.