Geraldton’s Batavia Motor Inne demolition works paused as digger removed from the site for reported servicing

The pause button has been hit on the demolition of the Batavia Motor Inne, with the only digger removed from site, reportedly for servicing, on Thursday. A truck from the demolition company contracted to complete the job, Buhnu, was seen removing the digger on Thursday morning. Prior to the digger being removed, demolition of the infamous motel was halted for a week and no progress was made. Staff from the site told 7News the digger was going in for a service, but insisted there would be no delays. The digger is being serviced at WesTrac Geraldton, and staff are unsure when the machine will be back in action. Buhnu brought two machines to Geraldton but is using only one for the demolition process. It is reported that there has been disputes over the supply of water to the site, essential in keeping the dust and asbestos at bay during the operation. City of Greater Geraldton mayor and neighbour to the Batavia Motor Inne, Shane Van Styn, said council still had not received any development proposals for the site. Mr Van Styn said he had heard the construction was in need of water supply before they could continue with the demolition. During the first week of works, almost three buildings in the complex were torn down. Before demolition works started on September 24, the eyesore had been a hotbed of criminal activity and antisocial behaviour years, and a magnet for squatters for years.