We've been following the demolition of the Messenger in detail: see what the site looks like now and what's next

The demolition of the Vjesnik skyscraper complex has entered its final phase, with workers and machinery currently active at the site on Slavonska Avenue 2. The area, once occupied by the former structure, is now being cleared of debris following weeks of controlled dismantling. Contractors have been given until Wednesday, July 22, to complete the cleanup of two southernmost lanes of Slavonska Avenue, according to the Ministry of Construction. This deadline coincides with the submission of the site back to the ministry, marking a critical step in the project’s completion. Over the weekend, crews removed a 9-meter-high container wall measuring 50 meters in length, which had served as additional protection during earlier phases of the demolition process. During this operation, traffic was briefly halted on Slavonska Avenue, though it was quickly restored before the start of the week amid concerns over potential congestion. Now, attention shifts toward clearing the remaining portions of the avenue, ensuring the site meets all regulatory standards for decommissioning. According to officials from the Ministry of Construction, more than 1,561 tons of waste have already been processed from the site. This figure excludes concrete and mixed construction waste, which amounts to over 4,500 cubic meters. All materials have been transported off-site and handed over to authorized entities responsible for proper disposal, the ministry stated. They emphasized that the contractor, Euroco, has adhered strictly to current regulations regarding waste management, including sorting, loading, transporting, and delivering the material for appropriate handling. Despite delays caused by equipment malfunctions and the discovery of asbestos, the total cost of the demolition project, estimated at €4.22 million excluding VAT or €5.275 million including VAT, has remained unchanged. This figure covers the removal of the main skyscraper along with its western annex, reflecting the complexity and scale of the operation. The initial phase of the demolition began several months ago, with careful planning to ensure public safety and minimize disruption to surrounding infrastructure. The removal of the container wall marked a key milestone, allowing for further access to the site while maintaining protective barriers around the area. Workers have since focused on systematically dismantling the remaining structures, using specialized equipment to handle hazardous materials safely. Throughout the process, the Ministry of Construction has maintained close oversight, ensuring compliance with both environmental and labor laws. Officials noted that the contractor has faced challenges, including unexpected technical issues and the presence of asbestos, which required additional precautions and time. However, these setbacks did not affect the overall budget or timeline, underscoring the project's structured approach to execution. As the final days of the cleanup approach, the focus remains on completing the work within the stipulated timeframe. Once the site is fully cleared, it will be officially transferred to the Ministry of Construction, paving the way for future developments in the area. The successful removal of the Vjesnik skyscraper marks the end of a long and complex process, with the site now ready for its next chapter.