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Work has started to demolish what was the Octopus restaurant at Havelet Bay, after it was completely destroyed by a devastating fire earlier this year.
Demolition workers were seen on site yesterday, shortly after the restaurant owners had confirmed that plans are already being put in place for its rebuild.
Delphine and Mike Pesrin-Auder said earlier this week that the demolition work was to begin yesterday.
They said it would be phased, taking an expected eight weeks to complete.
Pictured: Octopus, pictured two days after the fire.
The demolition work is being carried out by specialist contractors, including AC Limited - which deals with asbestos.
The owners said that the fire had "disrupted" harmful materials that were in older parts of the building, and as much as possible has now been removed ahead of the main bulk of the demolition work.
With this in mind they have asked members of the public to stay away from the site where possible.
"This is an exposed site and with all demolition projects there are many dangers and contaminants," they said.
"An area of the existing roof of the old Half-Moon Café had slates containing harmful materials, which were disrupted during the fire. AC Limited (Specialist Contractors) have been on site and removed as much of the visible debris as possible from the ground and surrounding area. However, the demolition will be disturbing areas that have been as yet unsafe to access, and may also contain harmful materials, including fire damaged slates and general building materials, as well as putrescible waste.
"With all demolition work there will be an element of dust and debris released into the air and the safety of the construction team as well as external parties including passers-by is paramount and as such all precautions are being taken to avoid any danger to the public."
Pictured: Octopus, pictured two days after the fire.
Work to rebuild the restaurant will start as soon as possible once it has been demolished and new plans approved.
Infinity Construction Ltd - which built the original Octopus restaurant - have been appointed as Main Contractor, and Mr and Mrs Pesrin-Auder say they have been working with the other contractors involved in the demolition work.
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