SH59’s old BP building being demolished
Asbestos being removed with care
Kāpiti Coast District Council is demolishing the old BP building along State Highway 59 just past the Paekākāriki Hill Rd intersection due to asbestos and being at the end of its economic life.
For the last 15 years the building has housed Coffee @ Ians which shut in April after Transmission Gully affected business too much for it to continue operating.
Place and space acting group manager Mike Mendonca said the building contains asbestos and needs to be removed as it could pose a public health risk if left as is.
“Council has earmarked the site where the old BP building stands to provide additional carparking for those walking the Escarpment Track or visiting the shops and eateries in the Paekākāriki village.
“However, they are aware that the community has some ideas and are
Right now our priority is to safely remove the building. Mike Mendonca
open to discussion about how the site could be used in the future.
“Right now our priority is to safely remove the building as it can’t be easily modified or renovated due to the asbestos,” Mendonca said.
Work to remove the building started on Friday, with Mr Mendonca saying it is likely to take a couple of weeks.
While asbestos removal would be undertaken by qualified professionals, he encouraged people to stay clear of the area.