Demolition works on John Valves site continue

DEMOLITION works are continuing at a rapid pace on the former John Valves site in Creswick Road.Ballarat-based firm Calora Demolitions has been clearing the eight-hectare site for the past few months, with only a few buildings still standing, including the main office block and the canteen fronting Norman Street.Asbestos removal has also been carried out as the buildings are demolished, with warning signs lining the site’s fences and demolition workers using protective clothing and masks.A consortium of 10 local businessmen bought the site last year for about $2.5 million but have preferred to keep their names private and their spokesman has not returned The Courier’s calls.However, Ballarat City Council received an application for a 67-lot subdivision last month, with work expected to start either later this year or early next year.The site’s industrial zoning has been retained and it is predicted the eventual tenants will be mostly light industrial companies.Click to view the John Valves photo galleryThe John Valves site went up for sale in January 2009 after the company was liquidated in 2008 with debts of more than $4 million.However, it took until October last year for a sale to be finalised.Follow @FionaGran