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Building partly demolished over collapse fear

Richard PriceWest Midlands
News imageBBC The partially-demolished shell of a building with top floor and roof area exposed. There is a pile of rubble at the base of the building and other buildings visible in the background.BBC
The building, pictured after demolition work was carried out, was at "immediate" risk of collapse, according council officers

A building has been partially demolished overnight over fears it could collapse.

Council staff carried out an emergency inspection of the building, at 136 Furlong Lane in Middleport, Stoke-on-Trent on Tuesday night and said an "immeditate risk" had been identified.

"We took action straight away to demolish part of the building and remove all utility connections to make it safe," a spokesperson said.

"We are supporting residents in nearby buildings including with temporary alternative accommodation where necessary," they added.

News imageOrange safety barriers block a road where further along there is a partially-demolished building. There are houses and pavement either side of the road and a grass verge on the right hand side.
The road is closed along Furlong Lane and Supreme Street

The road along Furlong Lane and Supreme Street remained closed on Wednesday.

Council leader Jane Ashworth, who represents the area, said the inspection had revealed the structure was in "imminent danger of collapse"

She added that the roads were closed for several hours while work was carried out.

"It was a bit of a shock" one neighbour said.

She added that demolition crews were there until about 03:00 GMT.

Another said he had noticed workers and machinery pulling the structure down at about midnight.

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