Demolition of asbestos-ridden former hotel finally begins as diggers move in
Work has finally started on the demolition of the former hotel in Thornaby, ending years of uncertainty about the town centre building's future.
The complex demolition process will see significant levels of asbestos removed from the seven-storey site before work on removing the structure takes place.
It is currently set to be completed by spring 2026 - and will provide a cleared site for future redevelopment led by town centre owner LCP Proudreed.
As reported last month, the demolition of the building needed extra funding after surveyors found the 'worst levels of asbestos they have ever encountered'
The Golden Eagle
Andy McDonald, Middlesbrough and Thornaby East MP, described it as "one of the most complicated demolition jobs of its kind ever performed in the UK".
Steps to ensure the 'transformational' development could go ahead saw the cabinet approve using £1.34 million of previously allocated funding from the Indigenous Growth fund in July.
Stockton Council, which took control of the building last October, said the news today marks a huge milestone for the £23.9 million Thornaby Town Deal.
The board, made up of local stakeholders, councillors, and MPs, said tackling long-term vacant properties to create new opportunities was one of its priorities.
The work is being carried out by the appointed contractor MGL Demolition.
Councillor Richard Eglington, cabinet member for regeneration and housing, said: 'We are really pleased that with the support of the Thornaby Town Deal Board, the long-awaited removal of the Golden Eagle has begun to bring about positive change to the town centre.
'This is the next step towards unlocking new opportunities for Thornaby by removing a building that has been an eyesore for a number of years and a barrier for future investment.
'Given the building is situated in the middle of a busy town centre, close to businesses and residents, we are all working together to ensure it is brought down quickly and most importantly, safely.'
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Mark White CBE DL, chair of the Thornaby Town Deal Board, said: "Following years of hard work, planning and cooperation, I am delighted to be with the Board to mark such a momentous occasion for Thornaby-on-Tees.
'This demolition milestone shows the willingness of all partners on the Town Deal Board to work together to find solutions with the single goal of improving the town.'
Mark Davison Jnr, head of demolition at MGL Demolition, said: 'MGL Demolition is proud to support this key milestone for Thornaby as work begins to safely demolish the Golden Eagle. This represents a significant step forward in unlocking future opportunities and accelerating the wider regeneration of the town centre.'
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