DEMOLITION of a former country store is expected to start in the next few days after a contractor was found to deal with asbestos.

The former Walton's Country Store at Eden Lane, Gainford, County Durham, is being demolished to make way for a development of 14 homes by Three Rivers Housing.

However, work had been delayed for three months while a specialist contractor was found to deal with the high levels of asbestos in the building.

Sarah White, development officer for Three Rivers Housing, said: "We are just waiting for final approval from the Health and Safety Executive which we are expecting any day now.

"A full survey has been carried out and we have a contractor with the appropriate licence."

The company has also consulted with the Durham Bat Group after fears that the building could contain a bat roost.

Ms White added: "They've said they wouldn't expect to find bats in there, as apparently the acoustics are such that it would be almost painful for a bat to live there.

"However, if during the course of demolition we find evidence of bats, we have promised to get in touch with the bat group."

The social housing project will offer a mix of houses, bungalows and flats for rent.

It is expected to take five weeks to demolish the store and the properties are due to be completed by March next year.