First 'Gallowgate Twin' shrinks

Despe’s TopDownWay deconstruction system is proving effective during the demolition of the first of the ‘Gallowgate Twins’ high rise tower blocks, Whitevale Tower. D&Ri originally reported that its ‘twin’, Bluevale Tower, will be brought down using the system in 2016. We now understand that both towers, the highest residential towers in Scotland at 31 floors and 85 m (279 ft) tall, will both come down using the system during 2015.

Progress is currently on schedule, with the structure of Whitevale now reduced by five floors, creating a visible difference in height between the twins.

The project sees two past winners of the World Demolition Awards working together in collaboration to deliver a bespoke demolition solution to a complex project. Scottish tower block expert Safedem and Despe have worked closely together to bring the technology to the UK for the first time.

Safedem managing director William Sinclair stated: “the safe and controlled progress on site is an endorsement of our decision to utilise the TopDownWay system. Interest has been high and we have received a number of enquiries from clients across the UK."