An empty Front Street building could be set for demolition after Hurricane Ernesto destroyed an exposed wall.

According to planning documents, a portion of the western wall of 93 Front Street fell after it was exposed to the elements by the demolition of the neighbouring 91 Front Street.

A planning application submitted by the 93F Trust said: “The building at 93 Front Street at one time had permission to renovate the interior.

“It appears significant interior demolition was completed and then the project abandoned. The resulting state left the building in a structurally compromised condition.

“Further to this, the demolition of the adjacent property at 91 Front Street, has exposed the western face of the building.

“This façade is now subject to wind and rain, which is further deteriorating the structure. Due to the impacts of Hurricane Ernesto on the island, a portion of the western wall has collapsed.”

Structural engineering firm Entech said in a letter dated August 28 that while there were always potential solutions to restore derelict buildings, options were dependent on finances.

Its correspondence noted: “For 93 Front Street, it’s clear that the current condition is in collapse mode and any attempt to prop and restore would require relatively large sums of money just to achieve the safety requirements appropriate for effecting such works.

“These works may include repairs to spalling concrete, caused by corrosion of reinforcement, which, in this case, relates to all reinforced concrete surfaces, significant strengthening of the masonry walls and roof structure.

“In addition, the scope of work to achieve any restorative measures would require a comprehensive assessment of the strength of all structural materials, which we have already seen to be in an advanced state of decay due to considerable age and neglect.

“In light of the foregoing, it is our opinion that attempts to restore strength to this severely compromised building would turn out to be cost-prohibitive, in which case, complete removal should be carried out without delay.”

The application called for the demolition of the building while retaining an 8ft wall on the eastern side of the property and creating a new 10ft wall facing Front Street.

It said: “Since the existing building is vacant and has been for a number of years, the proposal will not detract from the amenity, environment or character of the surrounding area or neighbouring properties.

“No traffic will be generated by the proposal. The proposal will provide safe pedestrian access along Front Street and Bermuda House Lane as noted previously.

“This building is past its useable life and its current character can only be noted as disrepair. The proposed will enhance the vicinity while not detracting from the historical surrounding area.”

The application said the demolition would take about four days and that meetings about the project would be held with neighbouring businesses and property owners.

Documents in the application said: “Temporary protection and a covered walkway will be installed along Bermuda House Lane during the period of demolition thereby allowing for uninterrupted access during the short period of demolition.

“Portions of the eastern wall will be retained and thereby maintaining the visual along the lane.

“A new 10ft-high façade along Front Street will be constructed at the end of construction works on the neighbouring property or as soon as is practical.”