The 1960's concrete eyesore, the Tricorn Centre, in Portsmouth, will not be saved for future generations, the government has confirmed.

Despite a campaign to save it, the Department of Culture, Media and Sport said most people wanted it torn down.

Demolition work will begin on the shopping centre later this month.

I am delighted that common sense has prevailed...and that we can move as swiftly as possible now on to demolition. Mike Hancock Portsmouth South MP

It topped a 2001 poll by Radio 4's Today programme to find the country's most hated building, with one listener describing it as "another 1960s consumer rat-maze".

Heritage Minister Andrew McIntosh said the Tricorn did not meet the criteria to be added to the national statutory list.

"I know that the Tricorn Centre is the subject of strong local feeling but, while an interesting building, I have decided that it does not possess the degree of special significance required for listing," he said.

"My decision not to list is no comment on whether or not the building itself should be retained.

"It merely indicates that I do not believe the Tricorn to meet the clear national criteria for listing."

Liberal Democrat MP for Portsmouth South, Mike Hancock, said: "I am delighted that common sense has prevailed in this matter and that we can move as swiftly as possible now on to demolition."