February 2nd, 2007

Redevelopment work in Derby, Connecticut, has been delayed after asbestos was discovered in two buildings in the downtown area, which were due to be demolished as part of the renovation and development of the area. According to reports significant levels of asbestos were found in the buildings, and this has also affected the costs involved in demolishing them.

The two affected buildings include a former jewellers and a former billiard hall. The asbestos will need to be removed by the appropriate experts from the buildings before any demolition can take place. The city had been expecting a bill for around $10,000, but the building that contained the billiards hall will need around $140,000 work on it.

Derby Mayor Anthony Staffieri said: "Whatever we spend, we get the money back from the developer. The developer has already agreed that it is what it is, it costs more money and there's more remediation that has to be done. This is part of monies that will be returned to the city.”

The asbestos in the two buildings was discovered by work crews that were working on the site. The mayor has confirmed that work is scheduled to continue in the area next week.