By KLTV Newsdesk –

Demolition Progresses at Berry Brow High-Rise Blocks

Kirklees Council has reported significant progress in the demolition works at Bishops Court and Holme Park Court in Berry Brow, as preparations continue to safely dismantle the high-rise buildings.

Site Secured and Early Works Underway

The council confirmed that boundary fencing has now been installed around the site, complete with safety signage outlining contact details and personal protective equipment requirements at the main gate.

Internal fencing has also been introduced to clearly define key operational areas, ensuring safe access routes for vehicles, pedestrians and designated material drop zones.

To further enhance site security, new surveillance cameras have been installed around both buildings.

Initial internal works are now underway, with contractors beginning the “soft strip” process on the lower floors.

This involves removing non-structural elements, while also salvaging reusable timber materials such as doors, frames and cupboards from individual flats.

Once timber recovery is complete, the removal of non-load-bearing plasterboard walls will follow.

In preparation for waste removal, lift cars have been taken out of both towers to create internal drop chutes.

Openings have also been formed to allow plant machinery access, enabling the efficient removal of stripped materials from floors six to 17.

Delays Linked to Water Supply Issues

Despite steady progress, the council noted a slight delay at Holme Park Court due to unexpected water supply complications.

As work advanced, contractors identified multiple previously inaccessible water sources within the building that had not been detected during earlier surveys.

Next Phase of Works

Looking ahead, a power generator has been installed on site to support the forthcoming asbestos removal phase.

Contractors are carrying out asbestos removal alongside ongoing soft strip works to maintain momentum and minimise overall disruption.

Soft strip activities are expected to be completed within the next four weeks, while asbestos removal is anticipated to continue for approximately 20 weeks.

The council emphasised that all asbestos-related work is being undertaken in line with strict safety standards and controlled procedures.

Community Engagement Event Announced

Residents and stakeholders will have the opportunity to hear further updates and raise questions at an upcoming community engagement event.

The session will take place on 10 June 2026, from 6 pm to 8 pm at St Paul’s Church in Armitage Bridge.

Following feedback from a previous event held in April, the council has confirmed the meeting will adopt a presentation-style format, followed by a question-and-answer session to encourage open discussion.