Newcastle Council has decided to keep expenditure local, awarding the demolition tender for Queens Wharf Tower to Mayfield business, Major Projects Group.
Works will begin on Monday, September 17th and should be complete by Friday 21st September.
The top dome of the tower will be removed first with a 300-metre crane before the spiral staircase comes down in two pieces over the first night.
MPG will then remove two more pieces of the tower, lower roof and walkway over the following two or three nights, before the lower deck and remaining section are lifted out early on the 21st.
Project Manager Peter Allen said the major challenges will be "working next to a busy pedestrian area and street, as well as close to occupied tenant space."
However, Council says it will all be worth it in the end, with the operation complete in time for the arrival of 20 cruise ships into Newcastle Harbour in October.
"Removal of the tower, which was originally only intended to stand for two years, will save Council and ratepayers around $1.6 million in maintenance costs over the next four years," Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said.
"While it does have a place in our history," she continued, "it's long been the subject of ridicule and is well outdated in terms of accessibility for those with mobility challenges."
To see a video outlining the removal process, click here.
 |
| Bye bye to an icon. Image: NCC |
