Carlisle City Council has confirmed that the high-reach demolition excavator has now arrived at the Central Plaza site.
Once safely in place, demolition work will get underway.
A Carlisle City Council spokesperson said: “This stage of demolition will take several weeks and is weather dependent.
“It is estimated that around 8,000 tonnes of rubble will be removed from the site, resulting in excess of 450 trips by HGVs to remove the rubble. This will then be taken to a registered recycling centre. Attempts to salvage the ornate carvings from the side of the building will also be made.
“The work be completed as quickly and safely as possible. Contractors will continue to work over the Christmas period, except for Bank Holidays.
“The site continues to be secure and 24-hour security is in place with CCTV monitoring in place to prevent unauthorised access behind the debris field.
“We continue to support businesses and have put in place a hardship fund for businesses directly affected. We have also set-up a hotline which will enable those businesses affected to have direct access to the support team. The number is 01228 817444 or email [email protected]”
