COVENTRY, England, July 8, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --
A controlled explosion of a 16 storey tower in Coventry, co-ordinated by demolition experts, Cuddy Group, and landowners, Persimmon Homes, has been hailed a complete success.
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Sunday 8th July saw the demolition of the former AGCO office block on Banner Lane, forming the next stage of the housebuilder's redevelopment of the area, which has already seen the construction of over 600 new homes with a further 400 properties expected to follow.
The tower which stood for more than six decades was purchased by Persimmon Homes in 2004 as the farm machinery brand moved its European Office Facility to Stoneleigh, Warwickshire.
The land will now form part of an area to be offered to Coventry City Council for the provision of a new primary school and playing field for use by the school and the community, under the local authority's confirmed planning agreement.
Crowds gathered to watch the demolition which saw the Lord Mayor of Coventry, Councillor Tim Sawdon, and six-year-old, Daisy Uranjek, representing the housebuilder's nominated charity, Acorns Children's Hospice, press the button which triggered the collapse of the tower.
Richard Oldroyd, Persimmon Homes South Midlands Managing Director is pleased the demolition went according to plan.
"We are delighted with the success of the controlled explosion. The tower had been empty for many years and today's demolition will be a memorable event for local residents while allowing the construction of new homes and further enhancements to the community."
Approximately 40 kilogrammes of explosives were used to bring down the 53 metres office block.
Mr Oldroyd added: "We choose the Sunday morning to help minimise disruption for people in the surrounding area. Around 150 people were temporarily removed from their homes and shops to a safe evacuation centre until the all clear signal was issued."
Richard Markwell, Massey Ferguson's Vice-President and Managing Director EAME, said: "We look back at the Banner Lane site with great respect and lasting memories of the role it played in our rich heritage and evolution. It provided a firm foundation for Massey Ferguson's continuing growth."
A comprehensive clean down programme has commenced.
The Bannerbrook Park development features a mix of one and two bedroom apartments through to two, three and four bedroom semi-detached and detached properties and offers a range of scheme and incentives to help meet the needs of all home buyers.
For further information on Persimmon Homes visit http://www.persimmonhomes.com.
Written on behalf of Persimmon Homes South Midlands by Connect PR.
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