Contractors began demolishing the building, which is known to contain asbestos, last week. The site has been earmarked for more than 100 new homes.

But this week residents contacted the Herald to say they were concerned at the demolition process and are worried that asbestos fibres may be present in the area.

David Archer, who lives in Cavendish Place, said, "We were promised the demolition would be dealt with in a responsible manner but the workmen appear to be just smashing the place down.

"There is a crane smashing up the structure and big clouds of dust are floating around."

A spokesman for Dorton Demolition and Excavation Ltd said, "We would like to re-assure any residents in the vicinity of the former bus depot, that all our works are undertaken in full conformance to the control of asbestos regulations 2006 and to part three of the Environmental Protection Act of 1990 regarding statutory nuisance, namely dust.

"In addition, our works are carried out as per the recommendations and best practice outlined in BS6187:2000, the code of practice for demolition.

"We endeavour to reduce instances of any dust particles created from our demolition works by use of water sprays for damping down.

"It is important to realise that removal of any structure may result in some dust being created but that no asbestos particles are present at any time in the atmosphere.

"To reinforce this statement we have carried out personal and background analytical monitoring during our works and the results have shown overwhelmingly that dust levels are below the required clearance level of 0.001 fibres per millilitre.

"If residents have any further concerns, they are welcome to contact the site manager, who will answer any questions they may have."