A dangerous building notice was previously served on the building in Keith Street, and detailed surveys had recommended demolition. 

Work will start on the site from Monday 5 January and is expected to take around 10 weeks.

The contractor carrying out the work is David Morton Demolition.

Chair of the council’s Community and Enterprise Resources Committee, Councillor Robert Brown, said: “Unfortunately there was no way we could keep the façade of this building due to the extensive damage done to the brickwork.

“While it is of course sad to see it go, it allows us to progress with a new chapter of the town centre, and it will form a key part of the Hamilton Town Centre Masterplan.”

A programme of works has been agreed that will ensure the works are carried out safely and with minimal disruption.

There will be no road closures for the duration of the works, although a footway diversion will be in place to ensure the safety of pedestrians.