Granada
12 updates
24 April 2016

Demolition halted as buildings fail to fall

Explosive experts have failed to demolish two tower blocks in Seaforth, which should be missing from the Merseyside skyline.

Live updates

Montgomery House is still standing despite repeated attempts to demolish it Credit: ITV News

A demolition firm will attempt to knock down a very stubborn block of flats later. Montgomery House in Seaforth on Merseyside has refused to budge despite several attempts to demolish it using explosives. Contractors will try again in phases today. One Vision Housing has had to provide alternative accommodation for around seventy households near the site.

"The most recent update from the appointed demolition contractor, J. Bryan (Victoria) Ltd, is that they are planning to carry out a phased demolition of the remaining structure of Montgomery House.

One Vision Housing is doing everything it can to ensure that those residents affected by the ongoing exclusion zone (circa 70 properties) are being made as comfortable as possible with hotel accommodation, food, drink and other provisions. One Vision Housing staff continue to be in attendance at the hotels to ensure that those residents have the relevant support and access to information.

If any residents in the exclusion zone require further information or assistance they can contact One Vision Housing on 0300 365 1111."

– One Vision Housing

Efforts to demolish two tower blocks on Merseyside haven't at all gone according to plan.

Both buildings in Seaforth withstood the initial explosive charges.

One collapsed hours later.

But the other stayed upright meaning dozens of people living nearby had to leave their homes.

Our correspondent Elaine Willcox has the latest

Credit: Elaine Willcox, ITV Granada

We are currently working with our demolition contractor to ensure that the controlled collapse of Montgomery House is carried out safely and as quickly as possible.

Affected residents have been provided with hotel accommodation, and our staff will be onsite throughout the day to answer any queries they have.

We appreciate the public’s patience and understanding while we carry out this controlled collapse. Further updates will be provided throughout the day.

– One Vision Housing

Clip: with Shaun Ingram, Contracts Manager, J. Bryan:-