Estate demolition reaches final chapter

Demolition contractor Connell Brothers has started work on demolishing the last remaining tower block of the Hattersley Estate near Manchester, United Kingdom.

The 11-storey Tameside Court is coming down in the latest phase of a regeneration programme that has already been the subject of a £200 million (US$246 million) investment by partners Tameside Council, Peak Valley Housing Association, Symphony Housing Group and the Homes and Communities Agency.

Connell Brothers is using a Caterpillar 375 customised high reach demolition excavator. It weighs 90 t and can work at heights of up to 40 m (131 ft). 

In the past 15 years, the company has already demolished more than 500 houses and buildings around the estate to make way for modern housing and local amenities.

The work is being carried out close to residential properties and the busy Hattersley Road East, and each phase of the project has been planned and co-ordinated to ensure minimal disruption to the local residents.

Connell Brothers’ director Barry Connell said: “We have a long relationship with Hattersley and are proud to be playing our part in the regeneration of the area. We have a strong and positive partnership with Peak Valley Housing Association which has proved hugely beneficial to local residents.”

Phil Corris, managing director, Peak Valley Housing Association, added: “The demolition of the last tower block marks another milestone in the rebirth of the area as a place where people want to live.”