New aerial photos show how close Geraldton’s Batavia Motor Inne is from being totally demolished and cleared

It’s a sight many people in Geraldton feared they might never see — the Batavia Motor Inne all but gone. Drone photos taken on Friday reveal the extent of demolition that has taken place at the Fitzgerald Street site in two weeks, albeit spaced over 10 weeks. The derelict motel had been a community eyesore for years, attracting criminal activity, squatters and anti-social behaviour. Demolition paused after a week, but the owners remained tight-lipped as to the reasons. Warning signs that asbestos removal was in progress were erected when demolition resumed earlier this month. It had previously been reported the site was also in need of a water supply to keep the dust and asbestos at bay before work could continue. City of Greater Geraldton CEO Ross McKim said the council took immediate action over the asbestos issue and an order was issued under the Health (Asbestos) Regulations to the owners. “The owners subsequently engaged a class-A asbestos licence holding contractor, who has since undertaken works to remove material from the property,” he said. A spokesperson for WorkSafe said, “WA’s work health and safety laws require that asbestos is identified before any refurbishment or demolition work is commenced.” WorkSafe confirmed it had been involved with the Batavia but was unable to disclose any further information because of an ongoing investigation which began in late September. Community members have raised concerns about the handling of the asbestos matter, especially as the site is opposite a primary school and close to a high school. The aerial photos taken on Friday show all but one building — near The Geraldton Hotel — have been torn down. Earlier this year, the owners revealed concept plans to transform the location in an office and retail hub.