Primrose Bank? More like the West Bank!

Demolition in progress at Primrose Bank

Primrose Bank looks almost like a war zone as piles of rubble and twisted metal signify the start of demolition of more than 100 flats and maisonettes.

Built in the 1960s, the properties are falling under the bulldozers of contractors D&M Demolitions, who plan on have the site clear by next summer.

The outdated houses will be replaced by around 200 new homes close to Ashton Road, on a major route into the town centre, the first of which is expected to be completed by late 2010.

The £181,000 cost of the clearance is being funded by the Housing Market Renewal programme and is part of a bid to improve major council estates.