Condemned tower blocks may finally be knocked down
GoogleTwo tower blocks which were approved for demolition over three years ago may finally be knocked down by the end of the year.
The destruction of Eslington Court and Redheugh Court in Gateshead was approved by councillors in February 2022, but they have remained standing.
The buildings' communal lounge is leased to the charity Teams and Bensham Community Care (TBCC) to provide meal clubs and social groups and Gateshead Council was required to hold discussions with the group before demolition could go ahead.
In documents recommending the authority also knock down the communal area, the authority said it hoped to finally demolish the two buildings by the end of 2025.
The residential tower blocks have been part of the skyline for decades and are a well-known part of the area.
In documents outlining demolition plans, the council said TBCC wanted to move to the ground floor of Holy Rosary Parish House on Northumberland Street.
It said about £68,000 had been committed to help the charity make its new location accessible and "suitable for occupation".
The documents said TBCC would move to its new site by the end of 2025 "which aligns with the programme for the decommission and demolition of Redheugh and Eslington Court".
Councillors will discuss the final plans on 29 April, but details on the future development of the site have not been decided.
TBCC and Gateshead Council have been approached for comment.