Another UK tower block to fall – Gateshead’s Derwent Tower

Tenders have been issued by Gateshead Council for the demolition of the 29 storey Derwent Tower designed by Owen Luder - known locally as the Dunston Rocket - and its adjacent maisonettes. Redevelopment plans for the Ravensworth Road were approved by the British government last October, after a application to have the building listed as being of significant architectural merit was denied. The council expects to appoint a contractor before the end of 2010.

The Tower, containing 196 residential flats, had suffered structural deterioration resulting from its form of construction and materials used. Many flats suffered from damp, the car park had flooded, essential services broke down and both water and heating pressure was poor. The Council therefore began moving tenants out in 2007 and it has lain empty for more than a year

The use of explosives has been ruled out on the demolition because of the structural complexity of the building. As a result, the whole project is expected to take up to 18 months to complete, with the tower itself taking some 15 months.

The redevelopment of Derwent Tower and the 116 maisonettes will be followed by a comprehensive redevelopment scheme that is likely to include new housing, retail facilities and a number of environmental improvements.