Demolition of eight-storey flats block to begin imminently

In 2022, housing provider Incommunities announced the plans to decommission the eight-storey York House in Thorpe Edge, and the majority of residents have since been moved to other properties.

Last year, an application to demolish the building, which included 112 flats and a shop, was submitted, and Incommunities has this week revealed that the work will start this month and is expected to last around five months.

York House (Image: Newsquest)

The organisation said homes in York House had become harder to let and less desirable, and were costly to heat and maintain.

They added: “Our long-term intention for the land at York House is to explore options for the development of new affordable housing. We are committed to investing in homes that meet the needs and aspirations of our customers and communities in the long term, by providing high quality, energy efficient homes that are truly affordable for local people.”

Before the flats were shut residents had raised concerns over the poor condition of the properties.

York House (Image: Newsquest)

Incommunities has announced that it will be working with Metropolitan Demolition to demolish the huge building.

The preparation work for the demolition is due to start imminently, with the main demolition expected to take approximately five months to complete.

Graeme Scott, Executive Director of Development and Assets from Incommunities said: “People living near York House have been waiting for news of what was happening with the building, so we’re really pleased to let everyone know that they will shortly see work beginning on the site.

York House (Image: Newsquest)

“Alongside the start of the demolition of York House, we’re currently preparing proposals for the future redevelopment of the site. Once the proposal is ready, we will consult with local residents to get their feedback and input on the plans.”

Whilst demolition work is ongoing the site will be secured and closely monitored by security.

Residents living near the site have been told there may also be some temporary disruptions during the demolition work, such as a footpath closure, but these will be kept to a minimum.

York House seen from above (Image: Andrew Dewhirst: T&A Camera Club)

The demolition contractor will be in touch with local residents directly to keep them informed.

York House will be the latest high rise building Incommunities has demolished, following the removal of apartment buildings in Bingley and off Manchester Road. Both those blocks are being replaced with affordable housing.