The Magnum is coming ever closer to its last days as the iconic leisure centre building is slowly stripped out.

North Ayrshire Council say they expect the demolition to be completed by the end of the year - after the removal of asbestos and phased work over the coming months.

As the whereabouts of much of the asbestos wasn’t known before work started the council say they are unable to confirm a completion date.

Following a procurement process undertaken earlier this year, Central Demolition Ltd were appointed as contractors to undertake the demolition of the Magnum.

They took possession of the building at the end of May and are currently progressing an internal strip-out.

A spokesperson for North Ayrshire Council said: “Due to the construction method and materials used in the building the demolition will be phased over several months to ensure all activities are carried out in a planned and safe manner.

“There is asbestos within the property, the removal of this material will be managed in accordance with all current Health and Safety legislation and does not present a risk to the public. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has been notified in accordance with the regulations and their approval to proceed is awaited.

“As the location of much of the asbestos wasn’t known until the demolition works started, we do not have an exact date for the completion of the overall contract, however, we expect the works will be completed before the end of 2017.

“In addition, there are a variety of community benefits associated with this contract including a half year apprenticeship programme and support for a variety of employment and skills projects for local school pupils.

“The demolition of the Magnum will allow the Council to progress with its regeneration plans for the Irvine Harbour area and beyond, and form a component part of the ambitious proposals set out in the Ayrshire Growth Deal.”