Three Millarston tower blocks gone in under 10 seconds

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Changing demand for homes had made the flats unpopular and difficult to let. High investment and running costs confirmed the decision to demolish them.

The three blocks were built in the early 1970s. They were once home to around 270 households. Each block contained 90 one and two bedroom flats, with six properties on each of the 15 floors. Most tenants have been rehoused within the local area in suitable alternative accommodation.

Councillor Brian Lawson, convener of Renfrewshire Council's housing and community safety policy board, said: "This is a significant step forward in the redevelopment of Millarston. We are determined to rebuild local communities and this event is an important part of our regeneration strategy for the wider area."

The demolition saw 218 nearby homes being evacuated as a safety precaution designed to create an exclusion zone around the site. The exclusion zone was checked prior to the blowdown by police foot patrols, dog handlers and a police helicopter with thermal imaging cameras to make sure it was clear of people. The residents from those properties were offered alternative accommodation in a local hotel but the majority chose to stay with family or friends.

Just 50kg of explosives were used to fell each block of flats, with over 10km of fuse wire connecting the charges. The blowdown was the culmination of months of careful planning and preparation by British Transport Police, DPS International, Network Rail, NHS Great Glasgow and Clyde, Reigart Contracts Ltd, Renfrewshire Council, Strathclyde Fire and Rescue and Strathclyde Police.

Press release: Monday 14 July 2008