Rubble at mill as chimney flattened

Photo: ADM Regeneration Ltd

Going.... the chimney starts to fall

2 More Image(s) In Gallery

CROWDS gathered in Hollinwood yesterday to watch a 110-year-old chimney being demolished..

The Durban Mill chimney was razed with explosives after residents living close by were evacuated for safety. The 650-ton, 130ft chimney crashed to the ground shortly before 10am.

Onlooker Paul Jenner said: “It really was fascinating. It’s so rare that you’re able to see this sort of thing, so I’m glad I did. It almost looked as though it was in slow motion when the bricks came tumbling down.”

The height and position of the chimney made explosives the best approach, demolition company ADM Regeneration confirmed. Almost all the material of the chimney will be recycled.

Nearby Oasis Academy will have its windows cleaned and air filters replaced by the contractor who will now continue work on the site with the whole mill set to be gone before Christmas — potentially making way for 80 new homes.