SARANAC LAKE — Demolition has begun in earnest at the future site of the Lake Flower Resort and Spa.

The Lakeside Motel, acquired by Saranac Lake Resort Owners LCC in May, was at least partly knocked down this week. Matthew Norfolk, attorney for Saranac Lake Resort Owners, could not be reached for comment. Project manager Jacob Wright declined to comment, as did contractors.

The resort, planned to include 93 rooms, two restaurants and a spa, was the subject of five years of legal headaches as the project traveled through the Saranac Lake village Planning Board, awaited approval from the state Adirondack Park Agency and tumultuous contract negotiations with the three motel owners.