When an iconic building that has been standing for years is demolished, it may seem like the end of an era for many members of the community. However, the fact is that demolition paves the way for the creation of more domestic and commercial buildings which usually have a positive impact on the local economy and lifestyle.
This week will see the completion of the takedown of the Virgin Cinema at Clippers Quay, Salford Quays. The building is being demolished so that developer Amstone can construct a new “urban village” made up of 600 apartments and retail businesses.
The former multiplex was opened by Virgin in December 1986 and was one of the first of its kind to be built in Greater Manchester. One of several large scale commercial developments at the Quays, the cinema played a key role in the regeneration and development of the barren docklands. UGC took the cinema over at a later date, but since its closure in 2001 it has stood empty with the surrounding space being used as a car park. The specific plans for the redevelopment project which were approved in 2015 include more than 600 apartments spread over five blocks and 17,000 square feet of commercial space.
The Virgin Cinema undoubtedly holds a million memories, but the benefit of demolishing empty and derelict buildings is that new structures can be built in their place. This enables multi million pound residential development projects such as the “urban village” which will create many employment and housing opportunities as well as millions more memories for the people of Manchester.
The concept of the village includes vast areas of green space that connect through to the waterfront. Space for the public that is similar in size to Manchester’s St. Ann’s Square has also been incorporated into the project’s design. The ground-breaking project will create a unique destination in a prominent site that will aim at the delivery of an entirely new residential and business community.
Projects such as these reflect the importance of the demolition sector and the role it plays in regenerating and improving areas across the entire country. In order to succeed in their ventures, construction and demolition companies need to implement appropriate propping solutions to prevent uncontrolled collapses and accidents. We specialise in the supply of temporary works solutions, including structural propping within renovation. Our name is synonymous with a whole host of UK projects and we provide cost-efficient and reliable structural support solutions along with a commitment to health, safety and quality.