Demolition of Crossbank and Summervale tower blocks approved and Oldham contractor to lead the work

The demolition, which was approved by Oldham Council in September, is the first important step in FCHO’s ambitious plans to transform the area where the tower blocks currently stand

First Choice Homes Oldham (FCHO) has appointed Oldham-based demolition specialist, D Hughes Demolition & Excavation Ltd, to demolish Crossbank House and Summervale House tower blocks as part of its proposed West Vale redevelopment project.

The demolition, which was approved by Oldham Council in September, is the first important step in FCHO’s ambitious plans to transform the area where the tower blocks currently stand.

In their place, the housing association wants to build around 90 high quality, affordable new homes – helping to provide much needed housing for local people and creating a vibrant neighbourhood where people, families and businesses can thrive.

Local firm, D Hughes has expertise in handling projects of this scale and will carry out demolition and clearance work at the site between May and November 2021.

Site safety and security will be a priority throughout the project.

Danielle Ashworth, Head of Development at FCHO, said: “We want to support the local economy and create opportunities for people and businesses in the borough through our work, and we know this is important to local people too.

"I’m delighted that we’re partnering with an experienced, Oldham-based firm on this milestone.

“We’ll also be working together to bring meaningful social and economic benefits to the neighbourhood around West Street and Vale Drive and the wider Oldham area.

"These will leave a lasting and positive legacy in the community and I look forward to work beginning.”

Ryan Hughes, Director of D Hughes Demolition & Excavation Ltd, said: “As an Oldham-based company, we are delighted to be part of creating a lasting legacy in our local community.

“We look forward to working with First Choice Homes Oldham and are proud to be making the first steps on this project with the demolition of the Crossbank House and Summervale House Tower Blocks, which will make way for new affordable homes.

“This is an important regeneration project which will represent a win-win scenario for the local community, where people, families and businesses can thrive.

“We take great pride in embedding and maintaining the highest standards of health and safety throughout our works and in the delivery of our projects and we look forward to working with the First Choice Homes Oldham team and taking this opportunity to support our local community and businesses.”

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