HOARDINGS are finally going up around the old Bradford and Bingley headquarters in preparation for demolition, but now details have emerged of further delays due to "sporadic" asbestos and other complications.

The owner Sainsbury's has written to Shipley MP Philip Davies to explain the latest position regarding removal of the redundant building in Main Street, Bingley, and confirming some delays.

"Unfortunately our recent surveys within the building have highlighted more issues than we had anticipated," warns the letter.

"While these should not significantly effect the start of the planned works to strip the site of its internal fittings, the date of the existing structure being demolished may be pushed back.

"Our asbestos survey has shown an unusual and sporadic use of the substance.

"The removal of this material will take longer than we had originally scheduled."

The letter then says it has now been discovered that the building shares utilities, including electricity and water with some of its neighbours:

"As such, the disconnection and division of these will take longer than expected to ensure their supply is not disrupted."

It concludes: "These discoveries are as frustrating for us as they are for the other parties concerned.

"We will strive to complete these works in a timely and diligent manner and will keep our partners in the community closely informed of further developments."

Mr Davies repeated his pledge to push for action.

“This is frustratingly slow progress and I will continue to do all I can to keep Sainsbury’s feet to the fire to ensure the site is cleared and sold on as soon as possible.

"Bingley town centre needs this site brought into use as soon as possible and I will do all I can to ensure that happens.”

The town's chamber of trade chairman Howard Martin said he was pleased that hoardings were finally going up.

"The alder trees have been cut down and fixing posts have gone in around the front and up to the swimming baths, so that's something," Mr Martin said.

"I suppose if they've got asbestos to deal with, that's something which can't be helped.

"But what is good news is that work on the new Sainsbury's local is going ahead of schedule and I'm told it will be open in early December."