Gardenmore tower block is turned in to rubble

LARNE’S sky line has been undergoing dramatic change over the past week, as the demolition of Gardenmore House continues.

Contractors began tearing down the 16-storey tower block on Tuesday, December 15 using a giant hydraulic hammer to pull the building apart from the top.

Since then work has been progressing steadily, and with each passing day several more storeys of the landmark structure are transformed into a huge pile of rubble.

Soon, all that will be left of the 1960s era flats will be a landscaped area like that on the adjoining site, where the Shane House block once stood. When the work is finished it will be possible to see the Main Street from the A8.

Fascinated locals have been gathering to watch the drama unfold, almost as if they were paying their final respects or saying goodbye to an old friend, while others have been snapping photographs of the building’s demise.

As the walls came down and the layers were stripped away, the history of Gardenmore House has been laid bare for all to see - the remnants of each individual flat and the previous occupants’ choice of decor forming a colourful scene for onlookers.

To prevent falling debris from striking nearby vehicles, a section of Riverdale car park has been cordoned off. While the demolition may be well underway, it is unlikely the access road between Pound Street and Riverdale will reopen soon, as the contract is to last 32 weeks from the start date in October.

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