Work is progressing in the destruction of the Golden Eagle in Thornaby.
New pictures show the progress made on the demolition of the disused hotel and pub, which began in August this year, and is due to be completed later this autumn.
Work could only get underway after the removal of 470 tonnes of asbestos from the eyesore building. Small excavator machines started on the roof and top floors of the six-storey building, behind scaffolding.
It was previously reported that once the upper floors had been demolished, the scaffolding would be removed and larger machinery would be brought in to demolish the structure until it is completely cleared for redevelopment.
Stockton Council shared images showing progress of the demolition.
A high-reach excavator is now removing the remaining accommodation block, as well as the ground and first floors.
The council posted on its Facebook page, saying: “This marks another step forward in the transformation of the area, paving the way for future investment.”
The council also warned people in town that in order to continue the demolition safely, the small footpath between the site and the new leisure facility, which leads to Boyes, would be closed from Wednesday, October 21, to Friday, October 23.
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The council added: “The building is being demolished as part of the Thornaby Town Deal, aiming to address vacant properties and encourage new uses in the town centre.”
Andy McDonald, Labour MP for Middlesbrough and Thornaby East posted on social media describing the progress as “great”, adding: “This marks a huge step forward in the transformation of the area, paving the way for future investment.”
Matt Vickers, Stockton West Tory MP also posted on his Facebook page to celebrate the progress, telling residents that the six-storey building “is NEARLY down”.