Content

Guildford Borough Council seeks approval to
appoint a contractor to undertake urgent demolition works at
78–80 Southway following significant structural
failure.
The front elevation has separated from the main structure and is
currently supported by temporary a crow propping, presenting an
immediate risk of collapse.

Reasons for the decision

Bearings Structural Solutions Ltd submitted
the most competitive and comprehensive proposal, covering full
demolition, site clearance, CDM compliance, and health and safety
management.
Bearings are considered to have the appropriate technical
expertise, capacity, and experience to deliver the works safely and
within the required timescales.
The demolition will also support the Council’s wider
regeneration objectives for the Westborough area, enabling the
cleared site to be handed back to the Development team for future
redevelopment and delivery of new housing stock.
Risks:
78–80 Southway has suffered significant structural failure to
the extent that the front elevation has separated from the main
structure and is currently being supported by a crow props. The
condition of the building presents a real and imminent risk of
collapse.
There have also been recent reports of unauthorised access and
break-ins at the site, increasing the risk to members of the public
and exposing Guildford Borough Council to significant health and
safety liability.
Senior Management Team have been advised of the risks, and approval
has been given by Julian Higson to proceed with demolition works as
a matter of urgency to remove the immediate danger.

Alternative options considered

None